young ladies, watch what you do. >> i would have to say in the book of world records, you're the only one-time hooter's waitress that has received five oscar nominations. adams opted out of college and soon found her way into the dinner theater circuit. you landed in a company in minnesota. >> i did. >> what do you think about that kind of day in and day out where you're singing and serving dessert in between the acts. >> it's such great discipline. you develop a work ethic. >> her talents caught the eye of a film producer who gave adams her first role on the big screen. in the dark comedy "drop dead gorgeous." >> hey, i got second runner-up, i got second place. >> third. >> at 24 years old, she was hollywood bound. she got a string of guest spots on tv shows like "buffy the vampire slayer." >> i hope you'll be hanging out