Karen O’Leary

Karen O’Leary

A natural performer, Karen O’Leary made her acting debut in Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement’s cult-classic feature What We Do in the Shadows.

Her head-turning performance as Officer O’Leary led to comedy spin-off series Wellington Paranormal, a show that is broadcast around the world in 70 countries, including on HBO Max in the US.

She since transitioned seamlessly into current events television claiming the Best Presenter: Entertainment at the 2023 NZ Television Awards for her role as Community Reporter on the show Paddy Gower Has Issues.

Karen developed exceptional communication skills in her two decades as an early childhood educator, and uses those skills to great effect as both a presenter and an MC.

She is a charismatic, hilarious, and charming presence whose services are highly sought after.

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Karen O’Leary on Becoming an ‘Accidental Actor’, Newshub Closure & Wellington Paranormal Success

Episode 167

Karen O’Leary is an ‘accidental actor’ with one of the best career arcs in NZ media.

From early childhood educator for two decades, to accidental actor after a head-turning 90 second performance on What We Do In The Shadows, then to award-winning presenter on Paddy Gower has Issues, months before it was announced the show would not be returning to our screens.

In this episode we talk about her unique career path and all the best stories along the way, her reaction to Newshub shutting down and what’s next, getting naked on set with Jermaine Clement, why her nickname is little bush, the best of Officer O’Leary and much more.

Karen is a lethal combination of charismatic, hilarious and smart – and this was a really fun one, with so many great yarns.