Tiffany Haddish Had a Holiday Reunion with the Social Worker Who Saved Her Life

Haddish spotted the woman who pushed her to start her comedy career at a holiday show

Tiffany Haddish is one of the most inspirational success stories in stand-up comedy, but it's a story that we never would have heard if not for Coleta Lewis.

Long before Haddish was an internationally known stand-up comedian, the Los Angeles native had to overcome appalling adversity in her early life just to survive. Haddish's childhood struggles, including domestic abuse, foster care stints and behavioral issues, culminated in an ultimatum given to her by her social worker at the age of 17: go to therapy, or go to the Laugh Factory Comedy Camp. Nearly 30 years later, that decision has proven to be the biggest one of her life.

During a recent holiday performance, Haddish recognized a familiar face in the audience as Lewis came out to see her (presumably) most famous patient live, leading to a tearful reunion that Haddish posted on Instagram for any followers in need of a good New Years' cry:

Since becoming a massive stand-up star, Haddish has worked to improve the lives of others coming up in the foster care system through her non-profit organization, the She Ready Foundation. She also volunteers at the same Laugh Factory Comedy Camp that Lewis urged her to attend decades ago, helping the legendary comedy institution give other kids the free opportunity to explore their budding artistry and sense of humor in a safe place.

As such, Lewis may not have just saved one troubled child from a lifetime of struggle – she may have improved the lives of many kids in need of support by forcing Haddish to either go to therapy or at least make some money off of her messed up mind.

Source: Cracked.com — “Tiffany Haddish Had a Holiday Reunion with the Social Worker Who Saved Her Life.”