Geri Jewell
Geri Jewell, a comedian, made television history when she was cast in the episode titled Cousin Geri. This marked the first time that an individual with a disability was given a chance to perform onscreen. Paving the way for other performers who are disabled and expanding what is considered possible in terms of ability and talent.
Jewell recalled the night she performed at the Media Access Awards fondly. “I got a standing ovation, and I ran into Norman in the elevator,” she said. “He told me that he would be in touch soon, and true to his word, three months later, he called me with an offer to play Jeri’s cousin on an episode of his show. I filmed it two weeks before Christmas that year.”