Margaret Cho on Healing, Comedy, and the Power of Speaking Up
Margaret Cho has spent decades blazing trails in comedy, entertainment, and activism. As a fearless performer, writer, and advocate, she has shared her struggles and triumphs with the world, inspiring countless people along the way. In a candid conversation on Better Together with Maria Menounos, Cho opened up about her journey, the shifting landscape of comedy, and the personal battles that have shaped her into the powerhouse she is today.
The Power of a Helping Hand
Margaret’s insight on generosity struck a chord with Maria, reminding her of how small acts of kindness can have life-altering effects. Maria recalled how a friend’s willingness to step in during a time of need made a monumental impact when her mother was transitioning home from the hospital.
“It was just one act that anyone could do,” Maria reflected. “But it was life-changing for us.”
Margaret agreed, emphasizing how small, thoughtful gestures can leave lasting impressions, encouraging a cycle of giving and gratitude. “When you help others, you will get it in return,” she said. “You don’t do it for that reason, but the universe has a way of bringing it back to you.”
Margaret’s Journey Through the Changing Entertainment Industry
As a pioneer in comedy, Margaret Cho’s rise in the entertainment industry was far from easy. She recalled how executives in the 1990s criticized her appearance, telling her she was “too fat to play herself” in her groundbreaking sitcom, All-American Girl.
“You’re too fat to be you,” she remembered being told.
Today, the landscape has shifted. What was once normalized in Hollywood is now being challenged. Social media has empowered individuals to call out injustice, and figures once untouchable are now facing consequences for their actions.
“I endured so much sexual harassment in the ’90s. But now, people are not afraid to speak up,” she said. “That’s the most important part. We were in a culture of fear, and we couldn’t speak up about anything. Now, people can.”
Cho expressed gratitude for the evolving industry and the voices of younger generations demanding change. “Younger people are taking the lead, and older people are telling their stories so that others feel seen,” she said. “That’s what’s making a difference.”
Speaking Up and Moving Forward
Margaret acknowledged that while the industry has progressed, real change requires continued conversation and action. She applauded fellow comedians and artists, including Ali Wong and Awkwafina, who have carved out space in Hollywood while remaining unapologetically themselves.
Seeing their success, she shared, is her greatest joy. “They were inspired by me, and now they’re out there leading the way. That’s the most fulfilling thing to witness.”
Processing Trauma and Finding Peace
A survivor of abuse, addiction, and industry toxicity, Margaret has dedicated years to healing. One of her most powerful takeaways was understanding the impact of thought loops—where past trauma replays in one’s mind, keeping them stuck in pain and fear.
“Trauma makes you replay things over and over,” she explained. “It keeps you stuck in a cycle.”
One of her biggest breakthroughs came through EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a technique that helps rewire the brain’s response to trauma. “It was life-changing. It took the emotional charge away from the memories,” she shared. “Now, I can use my experiences to help others rather than be trapped in them.”
Laughter as Healing
As a comedian, Cho sees humor as a critical tool for healing. “Laughter is hope,” she explained. “It’s the first step in overcoming pain.”
While cancel culture has been a hot topic in comedy, Cho sees it as an opportunity for growth. “It forces comedians to be more thoughtful about their jokes. It makes us challenge ourselves to be funnier in ways that don’t punch down,” she said. “That’s a good thing.”
Life at 52: Finding Joy in Independence
Now in her 50s, Cho says she has never been happier. Living alone with her beloved pets, she has found peace in solitude. “I love it. I can do whatever I want, eat what I want, sleep in the middle of the bed,” she laughed. “It’s liberating.”
She encourages others to embrace the freedom of being alone and to reject societal pressures that prioritize relationships over personal fulfillment.
“I think people believe they need to be with someone to be happy, but I’ve found so much joy in being on my own.”
A Bright Future and a Lasting Legacy
Margaret’s career continues to thrive. Her animated film Over the Moon was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Animated Motion Picture, and she’s keeping busy with comedy, podcasting, and activism.
“I’ve done a lot of good for myself by choosing a lifestyle that supports my happiness and well-being,” she reflected.
Her journey is a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of using one’s voice. From overcoming personal and professional hardships to paving the way for future generations, Margaret Cho remains an inspiring force of nature.
For more insights and healing conversations, tune into Heal Squad with Maria Menounos. To stay updated on Margaret Cho’s work, visit MargaretCho.com and follow her on social media @margaret_cho.
