Kathy Najimy
Actress in 'Sister Act' and 'Hocus Pocus,' voice of Peggy Hill, LGBTQ+ activist
Kathleen Ann Najimy (June 6, 1957 – present) is an American actress, comedian, and activist known for her distinctive voice and vibrant comedic presence. Born in San Diego, California, she began her career in theater and stand-up comedy before transitioning to film and television. Najimy gained international recognition for her roles in the Disney films 'Sister Act' (1992) and 'Hocus Pocus' (1993), becoming a beloved figure in family entertainment. She became the voice of Peggy Hill in the long-running animated series 'King of the Hill,' which aired for 13 seasons and earned her multiple award nominations. Beyond entertainment, Najimy has been a tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and humanitarian causes, using her platform to promote social justice and equality. She served as a spokesperson for various charitable organizations and has been vocal about her own advocacy work. Her career demonstrates the importance of versatility and authenticity, as she has successfully balanced mainstream entertainment with principled activism, refusing to compartmentalize her values from her professional life.
Entertainment
American
1957
Thinking about the name
Kathy
Greek origin
“A diminutive of Katherine, derived from the Greek Aikaterina, meaning 'pure.' Kathy became a standalone name during the mid-20th century and represents the friendly, approachable American nickname tradition. It carries warmth without formality, making it feel both classic and accessible to multiple generations.”