A native of Asheville, North Carolina, Hemphill moved to Los Angeles in the 1970s to pursue a career as a stand-up comedian. After working the Los Angeles comedy club circuit, her routine eventually attracted attention leading to her being cast in guest starring roles on television. In 1976, she landed the role of brassy waitress Shirley Wilson on the sitcom What's Happening!!.
1995
as Coco
1993
as 976-Sexy
1992
1985
1980
as Shirley Simmons
1977
as Charlene Grover
1977
1977
as Pushy Fan from Tour Group
1977
1976
1976
as Shirley Wilson
1974