Ken Jeong was born on July 13, 1969, in Detroit, Michigan, USA. He was raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, in a family deeply rooted in education and discipline. His parents, originally from South Korea, emphasized academic excellence, and Jeong followed their guidance, ultimately earning a medical degree before transitioning into entertainment.
Education
Jeong attended Walter Hines Page High School, where he excelled academically and was also actively involved in extracurricular activities such as playing the violin and participating in quiz bowl competitions. His academic prowess led him to Duke University, where he earned his undergraduate degree. He then attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine, completing his medical degree and later obtaining a residency in internal medicine at the Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
Transition to Comedy and Acting
Despite being a licensed physician, Jeong harbored a deep passion for comedy. While practicing medicine, he performed stand-up comedy at local clubs, gaining recognition for his sharp wit and engaging stage presence. Encouraged by his success, he eventually made the bold decision to pursue a career in entertainment full-time.
Breakthrough in Hollywood
Ken Jeong’s big break came in 2007 when he landed a small yet memorable role in the comedy film Knocked Up, where he played a sarcastic doctor. His performance caught the attention of industry professionals, leading to more acting opportunities. However, it was his portrayal of the eccentric gangster Leslie Chow in The Hangover trilogy (2009, 2011, 2013) that propelled him to international fame. His comedic timing, over-the-top antics, and unforgettable catchphrases made him one of the most recognizable comedic actors of his time.
Television Success
Beyond his film career, Jeong found great success on television. He starred as Ben Chang in the hit NBC sitcom Community (2009–2015), where his unpredictable and outrageous character became a fan favorite. In 2015, he created and starred in the sitcom Dr. Ken, loosely based on his experiences as a physician. While the show only lasted two seasons, it further cemented Jeong’s versatility as an actor and comedian.
Recent Projects and Career Expansion
Ken Jeong has continued to expand his career beyond acting. He has become a household name as a panelist on The Masked Singer, where his enthusiastic and often hilarious guesses bring an added layer of entertainment to the popular singing competition. He has also made appearances in various films, including Crazy Rich Asians (2018), where he played Goh Wye Mun, adding yet another memorable role to his impressive filmography.
Personal Life
Ken Jeong is married to Tran Ho, a Vietnamese-American physician. The couple has twin daughters, Alexa and Zooey. His wife’s battle with breast cancer, which she successfully overcame, further reinforced Jeong’s dedication to family and philanthropy. He often speaks about his gratitude for his wife’s support and the strength she demonstrated during her health battle.
Net Worth
Ken Jeong has amassed significant wealth through his acting, comedy, and television appearances. As of recent estimates, his net worth is around $14 million. His continued involvement in television, movies, and stand-up comedy contributes to his growing financial success.
Physical Attributes
- Nickname: Ken
- Height: 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 145 lbs (66 kg)
- Bra Size: N/A
- Age: 54 (as of 2023)
- Date of Birth: July 13, 1969
- Zodiac Sign: Cancer
- Nationality: American
- Profession: Actor, Comedian, Producer, Physician
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Shoe Size: 9 (US)
- Body Measurements: N/A
Family Details
- Spouse/Partner: Tran Ho
- Children: Alexa and Zooey Jeong
- Parents: D.K. Jeong (father), Young Jeong (mother)
- Siblings: No public information available
Social Media Handles
Ken Jeong is highly active on social media, engaging with fans through humorous posts and updates about his projects. His official accounts include:
- Instagram: @kenjeong
- Twitter: @kenjeong
Ken Jeong continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood, balancing comedy, acting, and television appearances while staying connected to his medical roots. His journey from a practicing physician to a world-famous entertainer is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and passion for making people laugh.
