
Before Cheri Oteri became known for her hyperactive SNL characters (Arianna the cheerleader, anyone?) she was a member of The Groundlings comedy troupe in Los Angeles. Prior to The Groundlings, she worked in promotions for A&M Records.
Oteri was noticed by an SNL rep and hired to join the cast in the 1995-96 season. Along with her hilarious original characters, this versatile comedienne created dead-on impersonations of Barbara Walters, Judge Judy, Fran Drescher, and many others. With Molly Shannon and Ana Gasteyer as her SNL colleagues, the show at the time boasted one of the strongest female casts in its history. Oteri has also appeared in a number of films, including "Austin Powers" and "Inspector Gadget," and continues to be called upon by Hollywood for her unique talent.