Melissa Rauch, born on June 23, 1980, in Marlboro Township, New Jersey, is an American actress and comedian renowned for her role as Dr. Bernadette Rostenkowski-Wolowitz on the CBS sitcom “The Big Bang Theory.”
Raised in a Jewish household by parents Susan and David Rauch, Melissa developed an interest in acting during her time at Marlboro High School.
She pursued her passion by earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in acting from Marymount Manhattan College in New York City in 2002.
During her college years, Melissa performed stand-up comedy around Manhattan, quickly making a name for herself on the NYC comedy scene.
Her one-woman show, “The Miss Education of Jenna Bush,” in which she portrayed Jenna Bush Hager, garnered critical acclaim and played to sold-out audiences.
Melissa’s early work included being a regular contributor to VH1’s “Best Week Ever” television show from 2004 to 2008.
In 2009, she began playing the recurring role of Bernadette Rostenkowski, a co-worker of Penny’s at The Cheesecake Factory, on “The Big Bang Theory.”
Her character’s relationship with Howard Wolowitz evolved over the seasons, leading to marriage in the season five finale.
Melissa was promoted to a series regular in the fourth season, and her performance earned her a nomination for the Critics’ Choice Television Award in 2013.
Beyond “The Big Bang Theory,” Melissa’s acting credits include playing Tina on the American remake of “Kath & Kim” and Summer on HBO’s “True Blood.”
She also starred in, co-wrote, and co-produced the 2015 sports comedy-drama film “The Bronze,” showcasing her versatility as an actress and writer.
In 2017, Melissa provided the voice for the DC character Harley Quinn in the animated film “Batman and Harley Quinn.”
Her filmography also includes supporting roles in “I Love You, Man” (2009), “Ice Age: Collision Course” (2016), “Flock of Dudes” (2016), “Ode to Joy” (2019), and “The Laundromat” (2019).
In 2023, Melissa took on the lead role in NBC’s revival of “Night Court,” further cementing her status in the television industry.
Standing at 4 feet 11 inches (150 cm), Melissa’s distinctive high-pitched voice for her character Bernadette was inspired by her mother’s voice.
Melissa married writer Winston Beigel in 2007, whom she met during college.
The couple has collaborated on several projects, including “The Miss Education of Jenna Bush” and “The Bronze.”
They have two children together: a daughter named Sadie, born in December 2017, and a son named Brooks, born in May 2020.
Throughout her career, Melissa has been recognized for her comedic talent and versatility, earning a place among television’s notable actresses.
Her journey from stand-up comedy to mainstream television and film exemplifies her dedication and passion for the performing arts.
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