Zach Galifianakis, known for his roles in comedy films like “The Hangover,” had a humble beginning in Hollywood, working odd jobs and doing stand-up gigs in burger joints. Amidst this journey, he met Marie “Mimi” Haist in 1994, a woman volunteering in a laundromat.
Haist, who had been divorced and living on the streets, found solace and work in the laundromat, where she lived for nearly 20 years. Galifianakis, upon learning of her situation, arranged for her to have a comfortable apartment, with the help of actress Renée Zellweger.
Their friendship blossomed, and Haist became Galifianakis’s regular date for Hollywood events, experiencing the red carpet treatment she never dreamed of. Despite her newfound recognition after the documentary “Queen Mimi” premiered, Haist remained humble, continuing to work at the laundromat until her passing in 2021.
Their story reflects the transformative power of friendship and the impact one person can have on another’s life. Through Galifianakis’s kindness and Haist’s resilience, their bond transcended Hollywood’s glitz and glamour, reminding us of the importance of compassion and connection in life.
