Samantha Irby

Author, and blogger

Samantha Irby is an American author, blogger, and comedian. She is best-known for her popular blog, "Bitches Gotta Eat," which was named the best comedy blog of 2013 by the Village Voice. Irby was born and raised in Kalamazoo, Michigan and has a Master's degree in creative writing. She has written for various publications, including The Huffington Post, The Daily Beast and Jezebel, as well as having two books published, including her debut collection of essays: Meaty (2013). Irby has been described as a "no-holds-barred" writer who uses humor to tackle difficult topics. She writes openly and honestly about topics such as body shaming, sexuality and dating, race, grief and loss, and mental illness. Her work often discusses her experiences as a black woman in American culture, with particular focus on her hometown of Kalamazoo and her years spent living in Chicago. As well as her own writing, Irby is a sought-after speaker who gives talks about her work and her life. She has performed all across the USA and Canada and has also acted as a spokesperson for Dove's #MyBeautyMySay campaign. Samantha Irby continues to share her unique and incisive perspectives on her blog and in her work. Her writing has been praised for its courage and humor and she remains a popular and influential figure in the online writing community.