Melissa Peterman Movies and TV Shows Life Melissa Peterman is a talented American actress, comedian, and television personality known for her work in both comedy and drama. With a career spanning over two decades, Peterman has built a reputation for her quirky sense of humor and her ability to bring warmth to both her comedic and dramatic roles. Here’s a look at some of her notable work in both movies and TV shows.
Early Career and Breakthrough Role
Melissa Peterman’s breakout role came in 2001 when she was cast as Barbara Jean in the popular sitcom Reba, which ran for six seasons on The WB and later on The CW. Playing Reba McEntire’s best friend, Barbara Jean, Peterman’s character quickly became a fan favorite. Her comedic timing, combined with her lovable, over-the-top personality, helped solidify her status as a well-known figure in Hollywood.
TV Shows
| TV Show Title | Year |
|---|---|
| Reba | 2001-2007 |
| Baby Daddy | 2012-2017 |
| The Singing Bee | 2007-2008 |
| Petal Pushers | 2019 |
| Melissa & Joey | 2012-2015 |
| CMT Crossroads (as a guest) | 2009 |
| Celebrity Name Game | 2014-2015 |
| Hollywood Squares | 2003-2004 |
Movies
| Movie Title | Year |
|---|---|
| How High 2 | 2019 |
| Fargo (TV movie) | 1996 |
| The Last Man on Earth | 2007 |
| A Cinderella Story | 2004 |
| Tremors 5: Bloodlines | 2015 |
| The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause | 2006 |
| Young Sheldon (cameo) | 2018 |
| Let’s Go to Prison | 2006 |
TV Shows
Reba (2001-2007)
Peterman is best known for her role as Barbara Jean in Reba, which starred country music legend Reba McEntire. Her performance in the series earned her praise for her comedic chops, playing the funny, somewhat ditzy ex-wife of Reba’s husband. Reba became a staple of early 2000s TV, and Peterman’s role was central to the show’s success.
Baby Daddy (2012-2017)
In Baby Daddy, Peterman played Bonnie Wheeler, the quirky, slightly overbearing mother of the main character, Ben Wheeler. The show, which ran for six seasons on Freeform (formerly ABC Family), focused on Ben, who unexpectedly becomes a father. Peterman’s role as a comedic, loving mom made her a standout in the series, and she brought a unique, zany energy to the show.
The Singing Bee (2007-2008)
Melissa Peterman hosted the game show The Singing Bee, which aired on NBC and later on CMT. In this musical quiz show, contestants had to complete song lyrics in front of a live audience. Peterman’s comedic skills and her background in entertainment made her an excellent fit for the role of host, and she brought her trademark humor to the show.
CMT Melissa Peterman What a Funny Woman Wants (2010)
In 2010, Peterman had her own stand-up comedy special on CMT, Melissa Peterman: What a Funny Woman Wants. The special highlighted Peterman’s talent for stand-up, as she showcased her sharp wit and humor, drawing from her personal experiences as a mother, wife, and entertainer.
Living with Fran (2005-2006)
Peterman appeared in the sitcom Living with Fran, starring Fran Drescher. She played the role of the quirky, dim-witted friend of Fran’s character, who adds a layer of comedy to the series. While the show was short-lived, Peterman’s performance was one of its bright spots.
American Housewife (2016-2021)
In American Housewife, Peterman played the role of a fun, supportive, and quirky character. The show revolves around Katie Otto (played by Katy Mixon), a strong-willed housewife living in an affluent suburb of Connecticut. Peterman appeared in multiple episodes in a recurring role, further establishing her as a familiar face in American sitcoms.
Hollywood Game Night (2013-present)
Peterman has appeared as a frequent guest on NBC’s Hollywood Game Night, where celebrities compete in a series of fun, light-hearted games. Peterman’s quick wit and comedic timing have made her a favorite on this star-studded game show.
The New Adventures of Old Christine (2009)
Peterman had a recurring role in The New Adventures of Old Christine, starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Her role as Lindsay, the quirky and socially awkward character, was a standout in the show, which was a critical success during its run.
Young Sheldon (2019-2020)
In a brief but memorable appearance, Peterman starred in Young Sheldon, a prequel to The Big Bang Theory. She played a character in the show’s second season, bringing her signature comedic style to the role and adding to the charm of the series.
Movies
While Peterman is mostly known for her television work, she has also appeared in a variety of films.
Skyscraper (1996)
Peterman made her film debut in the action film Skyscraper, which starred Anna Nicole Smith. The film, which was released in the mid-90s, was a disaster-action movie about a building caught in a terrorist attack.
How High (2001)
In the 2001 stoner comedy How High, Peterman played a supporting role in the film, which starred Method Man and Redman. The movie was a commercial hit and became a cult classic among fans of the genre.
The Last Laugh (2019)
In The Last Laugh, a comedy film directed by Greg Pritikin, Peterman played a supporting role. The movie follows a retired talent manager who reconnects with an old client to start a comedy tour, with the main characters discovering new sides of themselves along the way.
Reba McEntire Christmas in Hollywood (2019)
Peterman appeared in the holiday movie Reba McEntire’s Christmas in Hollywood, where she joined her Reba co-stars for a fun and festive adventure.
Stand Up Comedy
Beyond her roles in sitcoms and movies, Peterman is also a talented stand-up comedian. She frequently performs at comedy clubs around the country, where she shares her observations on family, life, and motherhood with her unique sense of humor.
Conclusion
Melissa Peterman’s career has been a blend of comedy, drama, and game shows, with each role showcasing her versatile acting talents. From her breakthrough role as Barbara Jean in Reba to her hosting gigs and stand-up comedy, Peterman has proven herself to be a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Whether making audiences laugh on TV or performing live on stage, Peterman continues to be a significant presence in the world of television and comedy.