Atsuko Okatsuka, a comedian known for her offbeat humor, shares her unique journey influenced by a challenging childhood and immigration. Raised by her grandmother due to complicated family circumstances, she often felt alienated and struggled with perfectionism. Okatsuka's comedy reflects her immigrant experience and personal trauma, resonating deeply with her audience. A pivotal moment arrived during her interview with Ira Glass on 'This American Life', where she confronted her painful past of displacement and separation from her father, ultimately shaping her artistic expression and identity as a comedian.
"I think I'm kind of finding that I'm more of a perfectionist than I thought. I used to be like, 'Oh, I'm so chill,' you know? And I am. But for me, it's always about knowing that there's always improvement."
"People are always like 'Atsuko what's wrong with you?' Somebody 50 years older than me taught me how to socialize!"
"Sometimes it takes a project for you to go, 'Okay, I'm going to face that pain. I'm going to face that trauma.'"
"While she relates to other American immigrants, her story is unique in its own right, shaped by her mother's schizophrenia diagnosis and an unconventional upbringing."
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