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Cinthya Brasil is a Brazilian comedian, writer, and actor based in Los Angeles. A regular at The Ding Dong Show at The Comedy Store, she has performed internationally in Australia, Brazil Canada and toured all over the US. Her sharp wit and sarcastic humor often parody cultural stereotypes, horror and the unique experiences of growing up as a Jehovah’s Witness.
Beyond stand-up, Cinthya has worked with industry veterans like Brett Gelman, Eric Roberts, Tiffany Haddish and Harry Lennix. She also collaborated on a song with Jerry Ropero and acted on two episodes on a children’s YouTube TV show, recording several songs for the series. Coming from a family with deep artistic roots, their great-grandfather, Adolfo Machado, acted alongside Sônia Braga in A Moreninha.
Currently, Cinthya Brasil is focused on growing in Standup Comedy, testing new strategies to expand her audience. She is also producing comedy shows all over LA.
You moved from Brazil to LA. Did you come mainly to work in entertainment?
CINTHYA: I moved here to study theater full time.
Can you tell how you got into comedy and standup?
CINTHYA: The lack of autonomy in acting drove me to comedy. I never thought I had the guts to do standup. But after covid I missed being on set, so I was having fun doing cute TikTok videos with a voice over on the background. Little did I know those were bits from a standup comedian. One day I post one and my mom watched and said: why don’t you make your own videos instead of dubbing someone else’s? And that’s when I found out those were short clips of standup. So, I started watching those on TikTok and then on Netflix. But while I was watching those just the thought of being onstage terrified me more than swimming with great whites. I decided to study it online. I’ve always loved writing so that wasn’t hard, but I was way too scared to go onstage. So, I decided to do an in-person workshop. After my first performance I told myself: Well, I didn’t die. So, let’s keep doing this as a challenge. I never thought I’d love it as much as acting yet here we are and now I equally hate both. I’m just kidding.
People say comedy is dead today. What do you find most challenging about being a comedian today?
CINTHYA: What don’t I find challenging in comedy would be a shorter answer. Comedy will always be challenging because we are constantly trying to break barriers that society imposes on people. But comedy is not for the weak or the scared. I believe once you conquer your fear you become stronger, and it gives you a sense of self love and respect that no money can buy. So yes, it is and it will always be challenging but so is life and more important than just doing to better yourself as you break barriers and stereotypes you motivate others to do the same. Kind of like the 4-minute mile. If I can do it as a female Brazilian, so can many women.
How do you prepare for a stand-up routine?
CINTHYA: I scream into a pillow for a couple of minutes and I ready to go.
Do you have a writing process you go through for your material?
CINTHYA: I like observing people, not like a stalker per se but in a sense of storytelling. So, when funny situations happen, I write the concept on my notes and as I shower, play the piano or while I do yoga the joke about that subject comes to my mind. Once it does, I write on the notes again and finally I sit down in front of my computer I clean up the joke. I find the least effort I try to be funny the most natural and relatable the joke is.
Who are some of your idols and influences?
CINTHYA: Jim Carrey, Eddie Murphy, and I’ve loved SNL since I was a little kid.
Do you have a work or routine you are most proud of?
CINTHYA: Not particularly because I’m proud of all of them. Specifically, the non-funny ones because I learn mostly when I bomb onstage. It’s a very humbling job, not by choice. But I think I like to bring up Brazilian culture and trivia to my sets, so people get to know us by a different set of eyes. I was forced to be a Jehovas Whitness as a kid till 18 so I talk a lot about that too. Fun times.
Do you plan to act in comedy films down the line too?
CINTHYA: Absolutely. I haven’t stopped acting. That’s one of my many loves. And when you mix acting and comedy you get the best of both worlds.
Why is it so important for filmmakers to attend film festivals like Cannes and others?
CINTHYA: For me, attending festivals like Cannes is about more than just networking—it’s about being surrounded by people who live and breathe storytelling. There’s something electric about watching a film in a packed theater, knowing that everyone around you is just as ionate about cinema. It’s a place where you can meet industry professionals, yes, but also form real connections with fellow filmmakers who understand the highs and lows of this industry. Festivals also push me creatively. Seeing bold, unique films from around the world reminds me why I fell in love with storytelling in the first place. And let’s be honest having your work recognized on that kind of stage is an incredible feeling. It’s not just about business; it’s about being part of a global conversation on film.
Where can people see your work?
CINTHYA: I’m a regular at the Comedy Store. I am part of “The Ding Dong Show” with the legend Don Barris every Monday night and it’s also broadcast live on YouTube so even if you don’t live in LA, you can still watch the show at the comfort of your home. I’m touring Florida in April and Canada in July, during the famous “Just for Laughs” comedy festival. You can find my material and show and tour dates on Instagram @cinthyabrasill, Youtube
Interview by Vanessa McMahon