Mo'Nique first gained fame for her role as Nikki Parker in the UPN series The Parkers while making a name as a stand-up comedian hosting a variety of venues, including Showtime at the Apollo.

Mo'Nique transitioned to film with roles in such films as Phat Girlz, and Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins. In 2009, she received critical praise for her villainous role as Mary Lee Johnston in the film Precious and won numerous awards including the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

She hosted The Mo'Nique Show, a late-night talk show that premiered in 2009 on BET; it was cancelled in 2011.

Most recently, she garnered praise for her performance in HBO's Bessie.