Casey Wilson (born October 24, 1980 in Alexandria, Virginia) is an American comedian, actress and screenwriter. She is best known for her energetic, fast-talking comic persona and for playing Penny Hartz on the ensemble sitcom Happy Endings, a part that earned her multiple critics' award nominations. Wilson first gained wider exposure during a two-season stint on Saturday Night Live and later established herself with supporting roles in feature films and recurring television guest spots.

Early life and training

Born and raised in Alexandria, Wilson trained in improvisation and sketch comedy and performed in theatrical and comedy settings that prepared her for both live sketch work and single-camera television. Her background in improvisation has been frequently noted in reviews and interviews as a key element of her comic timing and ability to create memorable supporting characters.

Television career

Wilson worked in sketch comedy before joining network television. After appearing on Saturday Night Live for the 2008–2009 seasons she moved into scripted series work, most notably as Penny Hartz on the ABC sitcom Happy Endings in the early 2010s. That role made her a familiar face to comedy audiences and brought nominations from critics’ groups for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series.

Film and other work

In addition to television, Wilson has appeared in a number of feature films in supporting roles, including appearances in Julie & Julia, the drama Gone Girl, and the comedy-drama The Meddler. She has also done voice work, guest roles on various television series, and occasional live comedy performances.

Writing and creative projects

Wilson is credited as a screenwriter and has participated in developing television and digital projects. Her creative work extends beyond acting to include writing and producing at times, and she has been involved in pilots and short-form projects as part of her broader career in entertainment.

Style and recognition

Critics and fans often cite Wilson’s rapid-fire delivery, physical expressiveness and willingness to play bold or exaggerated personalities. For her television work she received multiple nominations from critics’ organizations; reviewers have highlighted her skill at creating memorable supporting parts within ensemble casts.

Personal notes and resources

Wilson remains active in both television and film and continues to perform and develop projects. For official career summaries and representation information see her professional profile. Biographical material and interviews are available through various entertainment outlets and archives (biographical source), and comprehensive film credits can be consulted via film and television databases (selected film credits, television credits). For archived sketches and appearances on network sketch shows see collections and clips linked by broadcast archives (archival footage), and for reviews and press items consult entertainment coverage (press items, reviews).