Lilly Singh, also known as “Superwoman,” is a Canadian YouTuber, comedian, actress, and author who became one of the most influential digital creators of her generation. Born on September 26, 1988, in Scarborough, Ontario, Canada, Lilly is of Indian descent, with Punjabi parents who immigrated from the Hoshiarpur district in Punjab, India. She initially gained fame through her comedic YouTube videos and has since expanded her career into mainstream entertainment, including acting, writing, and hosting.
Early Life and Education
Lilly grew up in a traditional Punjabi Sikh family and was raised in Toronto alongside her older sister, Tina. She earned a degree in psychology from York University in Toronto. Initially planning to follow a conventional career path, Lilly struggled with depression in her early 20s and began creating videos as a way to cope. In 2010, she launched her YouTube channel, IISuperwomanII, which quickly gained popularity.
Rise to Fame on YouTube
Lilly’s early videos often revolved around relatable comedy, including her experiences growing up in an Indian household, and hilarious impersonations of her Punjabi parents. Her content, which included sketches, parodies, and collaborations, resonated with a broad audience, especially children of immigrants, and gained her a substantial fanbase. Some of her most memorable sketches include her “Types of People” series and collaborations with popular artists like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Selena Gomez, and Priyanka Chopra.
Expanding Career: Acting, Writing, and Hosting
- Acting: Lilly has acted in several films and television shows, including roles in Bad Moms (2016), Fahrenheit 451 (2018), and voice work in Ice Age: Collision Course and The Simpsons. She also starred in A Trip to Unicorn Island (2016), a documentary film about her world tour that was released on YouTube Red.
- Books: In 2017, she published her first book, How to Be a Bawse: A Guide to Conquering Life, which became a New York Times bestseller. The book shares motivational advice and personal experiences, encouraging readers to take control of their lives with a “bawse” mindset.
- Late-Night Show: In 2019, Lilly made history by becoming the first woman of Indian descent to host a late-night talk show on a major U.S. network. A Little Late with Lilly Singh aired on NBC and ran for two seasons, giving her a platform to explore new comedic styles and connect with a mainstream audience. Her hosting role highlighted diverse voices, both in front of and behind the camera.
Style and Influence
Lilly’s comedic style is energetic, candid, and relatable, often addressing cultural identity, gender roles, and mental health in a light-hearted way. She is celebrated for her authenticity, using humor to tackle serious topics and advocating for mental health awareness, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s empowerment. Her “Superwoman” persona represents her confidence and ambition to defy stereotypes and societal expectations.
Personal Life and Advocacy
Lilly openly identifies as bisexual and has been vocal about her journey of self-acceptance. She advocates for LGBTQ+ rights and frequently addresses mental health issues, reflecting on her own struggles with depression and anxiety. Now based in Los Angeles, Lilly continues to expand her creative projects, working on collaborations, branded partnerships, and independent media.
Awards and Recognition
Lilly has received numerous awards, including several Streamy Awards, a Teen Choice Award, and a People’s Choice Award. Forbes has included her in its “30 Under 30” list, and Time magazine named her among the “100 Most Influential People on the Internet.”
Lilly Singh’s journey from YouTube comedian to mainstream entertainer highlights her versatility and determination to create a positive impact. Known for breaking boundaries and inspiring millions, she remains a prominent voice for inclusivity, self-empowerment, and resilience.
