Laughter follows Loni Love wherever she goes, from her Los Angeles home to the comedy clubs she packs all over the world. When she’s not traveling, the actor and author keeps listeners entertained with her unique brand of comedy as a cohost on the weekend radio show Café Mocha, the only nationally syndicated show dedicated to women of color.
As a result, the former cohost of the hit daytime talk show The Real has earned two Emmys and two NAACP Image awards for her ability to keep audiences and social media followers thinking while also leaving them laughing. That’s why famed comedy clubs like Pasadena’s The Ice House—which presents her holiday show Loni Love and the Lovettes on Thursdays in December 2024—and the Hollywood Improv keep bringing her back to their stages time and time again.
Here, Love shares all of her favorite things about her home in California, from stunning scenic drives to its unique shopping areas.
Where do you live? Playa del Rey.
Why there? I’m five minutes to the beach and a five-minute drive to the airport. As a touring comic, it’s a great location.
Who or what is your greatest California love? The weather is the great love for me. I’m in constant awe of the beautiful sunsets or the quiet of the sunrise by the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great time to meditate and reflect.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? That we are all healthy… some of us are non-vegan, junk-food eating, brown-liquor–drinking grown adults.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? It never rains in Southern California.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? Going to Disneyland.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? Driving to San Francisco… it takes about six hours to drive. You can see the beautiful mountains, forest, and agricultural land all along the way.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? Plan a day at the Getty museum and have lunch at its restaurant. There are artful, seasonal American dishes and picturesque views in an elegant space adjoining the museum.
What is your favorite way to play in California? Spend a day at the beach. You can rent a bicycle, get a scoop of homemade ice cream, and let the sun just kiss your face.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? The Citadel Outlets. Only in Los Angeles can you drive to an Assyrian palace to buy blue jeans and leather goods.
Best California song? “California Love” by Tupac. The song details why California is such a cool state and the song has a great beat.
How would your California dream day unfold? I would start with a hike in the Hollywood Hills by the famous Hollywood Sign. Enjoy breakfast at the famous Mel’s diner. Drive down to San Diego and visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo, which is home to 12,000 endangered species. Have lunch at a beachside restaurant enjoying fresh seafood while listening to the ocean waves. Arrive in Beverly Hills to shop and walk the famous Rodeo Drive. Have dinner at Craig’s restaurant in Beverly Hills for some tasty American cuisine. End with a live comedy show and drinks at the Hollywood Improv. You may just catch me on stage!!!