Academically gifted people are a rare commodity in the celebrity rank and file. The entertainment industry is one that values silicone over gray matter. This is precisely why Nicole Sullivan is so special. Not only does she have some of the attributes that are prized in a profession that exists as a monument to shallow thinking, but she is also one of the brightest actresses out there.
In the days before she carved out her own little Hollywood niche, Nicole was a student at Northwestern University. She graduated from this "Big Ten" school as a proud member of the Dean's list for academic excellence. With her college career in the rear view mirror Ms. Sullivan joined the Greenwich Shakespeare Company. It is here where she honed her abilities as an actress.
Once she began her acting career in the early 90's, it was quickly obvious that she had a natural comedy bend. For a regular television viewer, Nicole is far from an unfamiliar face. She portrayed the quirky dog walking in The King of Queens and also has regular spot on Mad TV. Along with these, she has lent her voice to such bizarre cartoon hits as American Dad and Family Guy. With scores of projects under her belt, it is amazing that she had time to learn the game of poker.
Nicole Sullivan was part of the inaugural season of Celebrity Poker Showdown. She didn't only appear on the show as one of the personalities who are there just as set decorations. She showed some legitimate Hold'em chops, and won her way to the season championship table. With the combination of beauty, brains, poker skills, and good comic timing it is easy to see why she is beginning to emerge as one of television's most popular breakout stars.
