Cristin McAlister (1975-2024)
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Cristin McAlister – stage & screen actor, storyteller and talented improviser who worked with Chicago’s Annoyance Theatre and studied with The Groundlings - has passed away at the age of 49. Cristin left us following a brutal 10-month battle with cancer, which she fought with incredible grace and bravery. Her husband James held her hand until the final moment. She shared her journey from diagnosis through surgery and multiple treatments, inspiring others along the way—as she did her whole life.
Cristin considered three places home: New Orleans, Chicago and Los Angeles. She performed with Annoyance Theatre in 40 WHACKS; was a regular guest on Patti Vasquez’s WGN Radio Show; performed on stage doing original sketch characters, stand up, improv and storytelling; booked commercials and TV shows; and performed live on Jimmy Kimmel Live!. Other credits include: “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”, “The Glass House”, “Epitaph: Bread and Salt”, “Boss”, and “Schizopolis”. In her spare time, Cristin taught improv to kids, and volunteered as a mentor and actor with Young Storytellers. Cristin grew up in Louisiana where she received her degree in theatre and toured the state doing children's theatre. After graduation, she moved to Chicago where she discovered improv, ultimately settling in Los Angeles. Cristin is survived by her husband and co-creator of 20 years James Vickery, her parents Kenneth McAlister Sr. & Karen McAlister, her siblings Erin McAlister (Aaron W.), Kelly (Scott Bennett ), Kenny (Courtney Bordelon McAlister) McAlister and Casey McAlister (Yen N. McAlister), her nephews and nieces, bonus partner Molly Meyer, and close friends, old and new, truly all over the world. She is predeceased by her dear sister Shannon. Her family said this: “A spectacularly funny, talented theatre/screen actor and improviser, Cristin was also a loving caregiver and teacher to children throughout her life. A passionate defender of the underdog, Cristin believed fiercely in protecting the lives of trans people and everyone facing unjust societal hurdles.” |