Kathy Kinney's television career spans multiple decades, with her first notable role being the recurring character Ms. Goddard, the town librarian on the popular sitcom Newhart, which premiered in 1982. Prior to her iconic portrayal of Mimi on The Drew Carey Show in 1995, Kinney made appearances on various television series, showcasing her versatility as a character actress. Her impressive resume includes roles on Seinfeld, Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman, Grace Under Fire, and Full House, among others.
In addition to her extensive work in television, Kinney has also made notable film appearances. One of her most memorable roles is that of Irv Kendall's wife, a mortician, in the horror-comedy film Arachnophobia, released in 1990. She also played the part of an obnoxious housekeeper in the film adaptation of Tobias Wolff's memoir, This Boy's Life, which premiered in 1993.