With widely relatable performances and an excellent range, Ayo Edebiri is undoubtedly one of the best actors of this generation. Including three record-breaking Emmy nominations as the first young Black actress and a win under her belt, among countless other awards, she consistently proves that not only is her breadth as a performer incomparable, but so are her skills in directing. At the 77th Emmys’ she's also the first woman to be nominated in both the acting category and as a director in the same year for The Bear's "Napkins."
From animated voice acting like in Big Mouth (2017) to FX's hit culinary dramedy The Bear (2022), Edebiri's reign is only just beginning as an actor, comedian, writer, and director. Here are the eight best Ayo Edebiri movies and TV shows, along with where to find them on platforms such as Hulu, Disney+, and more.
The Bear (2022-Present)
With compelling writing and directing, plus a brilliant cast all around, it's understandable why FX's The Bear would be the series that'd ensure an actress like Ayo Edebiri consistently shines. Sydney Adamu might be the character many people will get to know her as, but it's the star's inimitable work in the show's four seasons thus far that inspires viewers to explore her entire filmography further.
The Bear is a riveting, must-watch series for viewers who appreciate workplace dark comedies that feature an unconventional found family and the type of character building that feels deeply realistic. From the moment she steps onto the screen, Edebiri brings her A-game, showcasing a profound understanding of the immensely caring and gentle chef, which, in many ways, allows Sydney to become the heart of the series.
Bottoms (2023)
As a unique coming-of-age comedy about two teenage girls who start a fight club to meet other girls and subsequently lose their virginities, Bottoms shines as a hilarious tale that feels like a classic '80s feature.
Ayo Edebiri stars as Josie, an ambitious LGBTQIA+ teen, trying to find her way with her best friend. Hilarious, distinctive, and well-written, Edebiri escapes into the role with her comedic chops on full display. If you love classic comedies centered around authentic portrayals of teens and their angsty desires, Bottoms is a must-watch for the performances and clever writing.
Inside Out 2 (2024)
Every character in Pixar's animated duology about the emotions inside a teenage girl's head matters, and Ayo Edebiri is an astounding voice actor for Envy in Inside Out 2. The two films portray mental health struggles so brilliantly that they aren't just essential viewing for kids, but adults, too. Brilliant in a way that thoroughly exhibits how much greatness Pixar is capable of, these movies are suited for every type of viewer.
While she doesn't take center stage like Maya Hawke's Anxiety, Edebiri's quips from Envy break molds with both hilarious beats and shockingly relatable nuance that add depth to Riley's emotions. Voice acting is often tough with recognizable stars, but Edebiri does an incredible job of ensuring that in this film, viewers only hear and get to know Envy.
Big Mouth (2017-2025)
Edebiri wasn't always a part of the hit animated series, Big Mouth, but she came into the picture in Season 4 to replace Jenny Slate as Missy. Still, it's as though she's been there all along. Like in Inside Out 2, Edebiri ensures that viewers hear a unique character, not someone else they can associate with her, adding humor and absurdity to the nerdy girl with a big imagination and an even bigger heart.
Big Mouth isn't suited for kids, but adults who are fans of adult animation that pushes boundaries might enjoy it. With star-studded comedians alongside Edebiri, it's a great animated series to get into if you want something refreshingly unique.
Clone High (2023-2024)
MTV's Clone High, developed by Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, and Bill Lawrence, centers historical figures in a fictional universe that evidently differs from the real-world figures we know them as. As a parody of classic teen dramas, the series takes multiple liberties to contribute to its unique premise.
Viewers who loved the original 2002 series, parodies and reimaginings, or any of Bill Lawrence's other properties, are sure to find Clone High intriguing. Edebiri plays Harriet Tubman and effortlessly makes the role a unique standout from everything else she's in, threading humor and heart to deliver one of her strongest voice performances to date.
Theater Camp (2023)
A feature film inspired by the short film of the same title, Theater Camp is an authentic and wildly niche depiction that allows theater kids to find immeasurable joy and relatability in. Ayo Edebiri plays Janet Walch, one of the camp counselors, and delivers something hilariously quotable in every scene she's in.
Managing to squeeze in beats of humor into the limited screen time she has in an ensemble cast, Edebiri is one of the best parts in an already well-rounded film. Theater Camp is essential viewing for nerdy drama students who grew up absorbed in the theatrical world. Whether you went to camp or not, this one doesn't miss a single beat in providing entertainment.
Abbott Elementary (2021-Present)
ABC's Abbott Elementary is not only one of the funniest mockumentaries, but there's so much heart in every episode that it's bursting with a wholesome message in every episode, too. Perfect for viewers who want a sweet but funny escape, there's nothing quite like it on air right now. Although Ayo Edebiri has only been in two episodes, she plays the type of significant character whose position means she can always return.
Edebiri embodies Janine's rebellious little sister and manages to bring something incredible every time we see her. And sure, she's only been around twice, but not only does her role give us plenty about Janine, but it also makes her an intriguing character to want more of.
Opus (2025)
WhileOpus didn't have the same impact as most A24 films do, Ayo Edebiri's performance as the journalist Ariel Ecton, who finds herself in the middle of a missing pop star's compound, is incredible and proof of her range. The thrilling events of the film propel Edebiri from her general comedic expertise to a different genre, proving that there's indeed nothing that the actress can't master.
Opus might not be as scary as Hereditary (2018), but it is still more horror-forward than the typical thriller. For the viewers who can handle jump scares, Edebiri's performance alone is worth every minute.
