Television and film Riley became a popular television performer in the sketch shows
Fast Forward, its successor
Full Frontal, ''
Big Girl's Blouse and Something Stupid. In the latter she was also a producer and writer. On Fast Forward'', Gina Riley sent-up such singers as
Tina Arena,
Paula Abdul,
Bette Midler,
Sinéad O'Connor and
Dannii Minogue as well as Australian personalities
Kerri-Anne Kennerley and
Jacki MacDonald. She later appeared in
The Games, a spoof behind-the-scenes look at the organising committee of the
Sydney Olympics. She has enjoyed great success as
Kim Craig in
Kath & Kim, written and created by Riley and her long-time writing partner and friend
Jane Turner. Riley also works frequently with
Magda Szubanski. Riley starred as Kim in the
Kath and Kim feature film
Kath & Kimderella. The film opened in Australia on 6 September 2012 and despite negative reviews from critics it was a box office success having grossed $6,150,771. In 2015, Riley appeared in an episode of
Please Like Me. In 2022, Riley appeared alongside members of the cast in a
Kath and Kim special that screened on
Channel 7, which included new skits and unseen footage from the series.
Stage In 1987, Riley played the part of 'Chrissie' (loosely based on rock singer
Chrissy Amphlett) in Phil Motherwell's musical play
Fitzroy Crossing which enjoyed successful seasons and rave reviews at
LaMama Theatre, in
Carlton, Victoria. The music for the play was composed by
Joe Dolce. Riley also had roles in musical theatre. In 1992 and 1993, she appeared on stage as Janet in
The New Rocky Horror Show; she is included on the cast album. In 1994, she played Trina in
Sydney Theatre Company's production of
Falsettos, winning a
Green Room Award for its Melbourne season. In 1998, she played The Baker's Wife in a
Melbourne Theatre Company production of
Into the Woods. In 2009, she played Matron 'Mama' Morton in a production of
Chicago. In 2019, Riley starred as
Mrs. Lovett in
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street opposite
Anthony Warlow. ==Personal life==