Jane Wagner

The "woman behind the woman" that is Lily Tomlin, Jane Wagner first worked with her star interpreter on the landmark TV series "Rowan and Martin's Laugh In" (NBC) and later wrote material for the comedienne's TV specials and stage works. A Tennessee native, Wagner moved to New York to pursue art studies. She initially worked as a textile designer before she earned her first credit as a writer on the inner-city drama "J.T." (CBS, 1969), which demonstrated her flair for social commentary. She hooked up with Tomlin shortly thereafter, providing her with comedy material for "Laugh-In" from 1970-1973.