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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.

KPCC Archive

Meet The Long Beach Speech Teacher Who Taught Gabriel Iglesias In High School

Comedian Gabriel Iglesias dedicated his Netflix show "Mr. Iglesias" to his high school speech teacher, June Garner. The two reunited at the premiere of the show.
Comedian Gabriel Iglesias dedicated his Netflix show "Mr. Iglesias" to his high school speech teacher, June Garner. The two reunited at the premiere of the show.
(
Chava Sanchez/LAist
)
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Before he gained stardom with his Netflix show, stand-up comedy, and movie appearances, Gabriel Iglesias was a student in June Garner's speech class at Wilson High in Long Beach.

He said she believed in him, even when he didn't believe in himself.

That's why the comedian says he dedicated his Netflix series, Mr. Iglesias, to the retired teacher. 

"It was the least I could do ... to at least acknowledge the fact that you were that influential," Iglesias told Garner.

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Garner told her former student that she's watched the first season of Mr. Iglesias "probably about 12 times."

"I needed something to give me joy at this point – I’m not gonna cry – but watching you, I don’t know. I’m just so proud of you," she said. "I’m so proud of you."

We tagged along as the two caught up last month.

You can watch a video of their conversation below, or listen to it by clicking the blue play button above.

https://www.facebook.com/theLAist/videos/412501269629395/

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