Alia Shawkat (born April 18, 1989) is an American actress best known for her breakout role as Maeby Fünke in the acclaimed sitcom Arrested Development (2003–2019), a performance that earned widespread praise and a revival on Netflix in 2013. She later starred as the lead Dory Sief in the dark comedy Search Party (2016–2022), where she also produced 30 episodes and directed one, showcasing her versatility behind the camera. Born in Riverside, California, to an Iraqi father and American mother (her grandfather was actor Paul Burke), Shawkat has also appeared in films like The Final Girls (2015) and Animals (2019). Her quirky appeal was highlighted when she guest-starred on Broad City (2015) as the romantic look-alike of Ilana Glazer's character, a nod to their striking physical resemblance. Additionally, she has played historical figures such as Alexander Hamilton on Comedy Central's Drunk History. From comedy to drama, Shawkat has built a diverse career, balancing indie films, television, and even art projects like Ryan Trecartin's Center Jenny.