Jemaine Clement Bio
Jemaine Atea Mahana Clement (born 10 January 1974) is a New Zealand actor, comedian, musician, and filmmaker. He has released several albums with Bret McKenzie as the musical comedy duo Flight of the Conchords and created the comedy television series of the same name for both the BBC and HBO, for which he received six Primetime Emmy nominations. Clement has appeared in several feature films and provided voice work for animated projects, showcasing his versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles. He is known for his unique style that blends humorous observations with cultural commentary.
Early Life and Background
Jemaine Atea Mahana Clement was born on 10 January 1974 in Masterton in Wairarapa, New Zealand. He was raised in a working-class family by his mother and grandmother, Maikara, alongside his two brothers. Clement is of Māori descent through his mother and is a direct descendant of the rangatira Iraia Te Ama-o-te-rangi Te Whaiti. His father, Robert, worked at the freezing works and struggled with alcoholism, leaving the family when Clement was a child. Robert later became a stained glass artist, and Clement reconnected with him as an adult, developing a strong relationship. Clement’s mother and grandmother were significant influences on his sense of humor, and he has often spoken about the impact of his Māori heritage on his life. He attended Makoura College in Masterton before moving to Wellington to study drama and film at Victoria University of Wellington. There, he met Taika Waititi, with whom he formed the comedy duo So You’re a Man and later, The Humourbeasts.
Path to Hollywood
During his time at university, Jemaine Clement also met Bret McKenzie, with whom he performed in Edinburgh, leading to the formation of Flight of the Conchords. The duo gained recognition for their unique blend of musical comedy and observational humor. They toured internationally and released several albums, including the Grammy-winning The Distant Future EP. Their success led to the creation of the HBO series Flight of the Conchords, which aired from 2007 to 2009. This show was pivotal in establishing Clement’s career in Hollywood, showcasing his comedic talents and musical abilities.
Jemaine Clement Career
Early Career (1994–2006)
Jemaine Clement’s career began in 1994 when he started performing in various comedy venues and television shows in New Zealand. His debut film role was in the kung fu comedy Tongan Ninja. He later collaborated with director Jason Stutter on several projects, including the low-budget ghost comedy Diagnosis: Death and the drama Predicament. In 2006, Clement gained international attention with his role in the film Gentlemen Broncos, which earned him a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male.
Breakthrough (2007–2014)
Clement’s breakthrough came with the HBO series Flight of the Conchords, which premiered in 2007. The show was a critical and commercial success, earning Clement and McKenzie a dedicated fan base. During this period, Clement also co-wrote, co-directed, and starred in the vampire mockumentary What We Do in the Shadows, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2014. This film further solidified his reputation as a versatile filmmaker and actor.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jemaine Clement is best known for his work in Flight of the Conchords and What We Do in the Shadows. He has received multiple nominations for his performances and contributions to comedy, including six Primetime Emmy nominations for Flight of the Conchords. His unique comedic style and ability to blend music with humor have made him a standout figure in the entertainment industry.
Jemaine Clement Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jemaine Clement has received numerous nominations for his work in television and film, particularly for his contributions to Flight of the Conchords.
Jemaine Clement Awards Won
Jemaine Clement has won several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album for The Distant Future EP with Bret McKenzie. His work in Flight of the Conchords has also earned him critical acclaim and recognition in the comedy community.
Jemaine Clement Family
Jemaine Clement is married to theatre actress and playwright Miranda Manasiadis since August 2008. They have one son, Sophocles Iraia, born in October 2008 in New York City. The family resides in Wellington, New Zealand.
Personal Life
Jemaine Clement’s family did not own a car during his childhood, which has led him to never learn to drive. He maintains a close relationship with his family and often reflects on the influence of his upbringing on his comedic style. His marriage to Miranda Manasiadis and their son have been significant aspects of his personal life, contributing to his grounded perspective in the entertainment industry.
