Kinda Pregnant’s Villain Reflects a Memorable Character from Melissa McCarthy’s $288M Comedy Classic Released 14 Years Ago

Warning: This article contains SPOILERS for Kinda Pregnant.

Amy Schumer shines in her latest comedic performance in the Netflix film Kinda Pregnant, which has quickly ascended to the upper echelons of Netflix’s global charts. Schumer brings her signature physical humor and sharp comedic timing to life through her portrayal of Lainy, while Gen V star Lizzie Broadway embodies the provocative role of Shirley, Lainy’s antagonist. Broadway’s portrayal of Shirley is an exaggerated yet captivating force, serving as the quintessential rival in this female-led buddy comedy.

Shirley: The New Helen from Bridesmaids

Parallel Roles in Each Story

In both Kinda Pregnant and Bridesmaids, the characters of Shirley and Helen emerge as significant obstacles for the protagonists. Each character schemes to usurp the closest friendship of the lead characters—Helen seeks to undermine Annie’s role as maid of honor, while Shirley aims to take Lainy’s place in her best friend Kate’s life by assuming the role of her “pregnancy buddy.”A poignant aspect of Lainy’s character is that she is particularly sensitive about motherhood due to losing her mother at a young age, adding depth to the rivalry.

The tension between the protagonists and their respective nemeses culminates in party scenes that are crucial turning points in both narratives. In Kinda Pregnant, Lainy disrupts Shirley’s extravagant baby shower, whereas in Bridesmaids, Annie causes a scene at Helen’s engagement party, showcasing pivotal moments of conflict and catharsis. Interestingly, while Annie’s emotional recovery is aided by her friend Megan, in Kinda Pregnant, it is Kate who reconnects with Lainy, emphasizing the theme of true friendship.

Shirley and Helen: Perfect Villains for Female Buddy Comedy

Complicated Characters Shaped by Societal Expectations

The effectiveness of Shirley and Helen as comedic villains lies in their transgression of a fundamental sisterhood tenet: undermining friendships under the guise of support. Their actions represent a betrayal of female solidarity, particularly poignant in narratives revolving around significant life events such as weddings and motherhood.

What distinguishes these characters is that they are not demonized; rather, they are portrayed as flawed but relatable individuals. Their behaviors stem from personal insecurities influenced by societal pressures, and their human characteristics lend a comedic lightness to the conflicts, allowing both Kinda Pregnant and Bridesmaids to flourish as entertaining films.

While Bridesmaids arguably presents Helen in a more sympathetic light than Kinda Pregnant does with Shirley, both characters serve as successful comedic rivals. They are essentially flawed yet human, ultimately reconciling with their challengers and contributing to the heartwarming resolutions that the protagonists rightfully deserve. This dynamic underscores the film’s comedic essence while pointing toward an evolution in the narrative of female friendships.

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