Named “One to Watch” by People Magazine, “11 Asian American Comics Who Need to Be on Your Radar” by Entertainment Weekly, and highlighted as “an entertainer who represents the vast spectrum of storytelling across the industry” on the Power of Pride list from Variety, actress, comedian, and writer Sherry Cola has emerged as a rising star in the entertainment industry. From starring in scripted dramas to showcasing her creative expertise in blockbuster comedies, and performing hilarious original stand-upsets on stage, Cola has proven she can do it all.

Sherry can be seen starring in the Lionsgate film Joy Ride, helmed by Crazy Rich Asians co-writer Adele Lim and produced by Seth Rogen. The film, also starring Ashley Park, Sabrina Wu, and Oscar nominee Stephanie Hsu, follows a group of four unlikely friends who embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure across Asia, landing them on a hilarious and unapologetic explicit journey of self-discovery. The film premiered at the SXSW Film Festival to rave reviews, with critics saying: "Cola is uproariously funny as Lolo, with a quick and gross wit that is sure to keep viewers laughing long after the credits roll” (TheWrap), and “the shiniest jewel of Joy Ride is Cola, full stop. Hers is a star-making turn: The veteran comedian gets to drop quips and pull mugs…put Cola in every movie immediately” (The Austin American Statesman) and “Cola brings an unexpected level of tenderness to her performance, which helps cement the central friendship as the emotional cornerstone of Joy Ride” (Paste Magazine). 

Cola also stars in Sony Pictures Classics film Shortcomings, alongside Justin H. Min and Ally Maki, and directed by Randall Park.  Based on Adrian Tomine’s graphic novel of the same name, the film premiered at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival earning rave reviews, with the critics praising Cola’s performance saying: “Sherry Cola is a riot” (Awards Radar), “perfect comedic timing” (Under the Radar), “hilarious” (Vox) and “delightful, Cola is a standout” (The Film Stage). Additional projects for Cola include appearing in the Netflix film A Family Affair opposite Nicole Kidman, Zac Efron, and Joey King and she lends her voice to Paramount Animation’s feature The Tiger’s Apprentice opposite Henry Golding, Michelle Yeoh, and Sandra Oh.

On the television front, Cola currently stars on Freeform’s critically acclaimed, hit drama series Good Trouble. The series follows Callie (Maia Mitchell) and Mariana (Cierra Ramirez) as they embark on the next phase of their young adult lives in Los Angeles. Cola shines as “Alice Kwan,” a queer first-generation Chinese American who manages the apartment complex the ladies are living in and aspires to be a stand-up comedian.

Born in Shanghai, China, Cola and her family moved to the United States when she was four and settled in the San Gabriel Valley. She attended California State University – Fullerton, where she majored in Entertainment and Tourism Studies and worked over three years on the campus radio station. Cola’s innate ability to make people laugh and bring stories to life was indisputable, and students tuned in daily to listen to her hilarious commentary on celebrity news, music picks and more. Upon graduation, Cola joined AMP Radio 97.1 FM, spearheading promotions, social media and board operations. She even hit the street with a microphone talking to listeners. Television host and radio personality Carson Daly took Cola under his wing at the station, helping her further hone her craft as she launched her own Sunday night show. Cola went on to interview top artists including Noah Cyrus, Fifth Harmony and Khalid. Following her success in radio, Cola broadened her artistic career with stand-up comedy and improv at Upright Citizens Brigade and began writing and creating characters. When two friends launched a Web series called “Luber,” a parody of Lift/Uber drivers, one of Cola’s most notable characters was born: Lil’ Tasty. The Lakers-loving, jersey-wearing, Timberland-rocking rapper was an instant phenomenon, receiving over 20 million views online.

Cola got her break in television in 2017, landing a seven-episode arc on Amazon’s I Love Dick, opposite Kevin Bacon and Kathryn Hahn. Her charismatic performance as jewelry-maker Natalie, one of Dick’s (Bacon) students at the art institute in Marfa, garnered public attention. Cola went on to work with MTV on the unscripted comedy series Safeword, showcasing her wit alongside Kevin Hart, Ludacris and La La Anthony. Cola booked a recurring role on TNT’s Claws opposite Niecy Nash, Carrie Preston, and Judy Reyes. The series follows five diverse and treacherous manicurists, who are good women caught in bad places with even worse men. Cola instantly became a fan favorite as FBI Special Agent Lucy Chun. Additional credits include Pixar’s animated feature Turning Red and Drake Doremus’ Endings, Beginnings opposite Shailene Woodley.

Cola regularly produces new material as a stand-up comedian, recently opening for Arsenio Hall and Ronny Chieng. She performs regularly at Laugh Factory, The Ice House, Hollywood Improv and The Comedy Store. She is also developing multiple passion projects, including a Curb Your Enthusiasm-inspired comedy based on her unique experience in radio.