'Insecure' Yvonne Orji embraces her Nigerian-American duality

Updated 4:31 AM ET, Fri June 5, 2020

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Yvonne Orji, 36, is a Nigerian-American actor and comedian. Paras Griffin/Getty Images

She's best known for playing Molly on the HBO series "Insecure." Randy Shropshire/Getty Images

Orji's comedy is often based on her relationship with her Nigerian parents. In 2015, she produced a pilot show on the subject, called "First Gen." Fristgen Show/Youtube

Orji's parents wanted her to become a doctor; instead she moved to New York to pursue comedy. Paras Griffin/WireImage/WireImage

Orji caught the attention of Issa Rae, creator of "Insecure," who encouraged her to audition for the role. Emma McIntyre/Getty Images

Orji successfully landed the role of Molly, a successful attorney who is unsuccessful at relationships. HBO

"Insecure" is now in its fourth season. Orji's performance on the show has earned her multiple award nominations. Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

Yvonne Orji is pictured speaking onstage during the 2018 Essence Black Women In Hollywood Oscars Luncheon. Rich Polk/Getty Images

Yvonne Orji attends the 70th Emmy Awards in 2018. Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Orji debuts her first HBO comedy special, titled "Momma, I made it," on June 6. Rich Polk/Getty Images