Heather McMahan on Hosting the 2024 AKC National Championship – “It’ll Be the Real Housewives of Shih Tzus”

Comedian and actress Heather McMahan – known for the rom‑com Love Hard and Hulu’s 2024 special The Breadwinner – is also a devoted dog mom to two French bulldogs, Macaroni and Rigatoni. This mix of comedy chops and canine passion makes her the ideal host for the new Viewer’s Choice Awards at the 2024 American Kennel Club (AKC) National Championship.

Interview Highlights

In an exclusive interview with Reader’s Digest, McMahan shares what fans can expect from the show, reflects on her career, and drops a few dog‑themed jokes.

What the AKC Event Means to Viewers

Reader’s Digest: The AKC National Championship is a dream for dog lovers. What’s one thing you hope viewers take away?

Heather McMahan: I want people to see how extraordinary each breed is. This is the Super Bowl of the dog world – a chance to appreciate the beauty and talent on display.

Meet Macaroni and Rigatoni

McMahan’s two French bulldogs are named after pasta, a nod to her Italian heritage.

Heather: “Both dogs love to ‘talk’ – they howl at six o’clock sharp and love photo‑ops. Macaroni would thrive on stage, while Rigatoni is a bit shy when the camera’s out.”

Hosting the Viewer’s Choice Awards

As a virtual host, McMahan will be on the convention‑center floor, meeting owners, trainers, and the dogs themselves.

“It’s about giving viewers at home a backstage pass – learning about breeds they may never have seen and the drama behind the scenes,” she says. “Think ‘The Real Housewives of Shih Tzus.’”

Bringing Comedy to the Dog Show

McMahan plans to sprinkle her signature wit throughout the broadcast.

“I ran the creative deck with Macaroni and Rigatoni last night – they warned me not to embarrass them! Their personalities, plus the colorful owners and trainers, are pure comedy gold.”

Real‑Housewives‑Style Drama

When asked which dogs would bring the most drama, she jokes that a Chihuahua would be the drama queen, a Labrador the peacemaker, and a poodle the Andy Cohen of the show.

Memorable Live‑Event Moments

McMahan has interviewed celebrities on the red carpet at the Emmys, Oscars, and Grammys. She expects the AKC event to surprise her just as much – “some dogs will talk back!”

Dog‑Owner “Absolutely Not”

She finds it frustrating when off‑leash dogs chase you on a walk, but “absolutely yes” to the joy her own Frenchies bring.

From The Breadwinner to Touring

Her Hulu special, The Breadwinner, was inspired by becoming the family’s “breadwinner” after an elaborate Italian wedding and European honeymoon. She’s now gearing up for her third national stand‑up tour, the “Bamboozled Tour,” and developing television scripts.

Rapid‑Fire Questions

• Aisle or window? Aisle – I need to stretch my legs.
• Dogs or cats? Both – I’m an equal opportunist.
• Mornings or nights? Nights, baby.
• Time‑travel? Past – I’d love to see the Cleopatra era.
• If not comedy? Real‑estate – I could sell homes like hotcakes.
• Advice to younger self? Trust your instincts, give yourself grace.

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