Joe Keery Bio
Joseph David Keery (born April 24, 1992) is an American actor and musician known for his role as Steve Harrington in the popular Netflix series Stranger Things (2016–present). He has also appeared in the film Free Guy (2021) and is known for his contributions as a founding member of the band Post Animal. As a solo artist, he has released music under the name Djo, gaining popularity for his unique sound that blends various genres.
Early Life and Background
Joe Keery was born in Newburyport, Massachusetts, and is the second of five children. He attended River Valley Charter School, a local Montessori elementary and middle school, and later graduated from Newburyport High School. During his youth, he participated in Theater in the Open, a performing arts camp at Maudslay State Park, where he developed an early interest in acting. His older sister encouraged him to act during high school, which set the stage for his future career.
Keery pursued his passion for acting further by studying at The Theatre School at DePaul University in Chicago, where he graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting. This formal education provided him with the skills and training necessary to succeed in the competitive entertainment industry.
Path to Hollywood
Before gaining fame, Joe Keery appeared in various commercials for brands like KFC and Domino’s, and had roles in television series such as Empire and Chicago Fire. His first notable film appearance was in the indie film Henry Gamble’s Birthday Party, which marked the beginning of his journey in the film industry. Keery’s breakthrough came when he was cast as Steve Harrington in the Netflix series Stranger Things, a role he initially auditioned for Jonathan but later secured through a tape submission for Steve.
Stranger Things premiered in 2016 and quickly gained critical acclaim, leading to Keery being promoted from a recurring cast member to a series regular for its second season. The show’s success significantly raised his profile, and he continued to act in independent films, including the satire Spree, while also taking on major roles in films like Free Guy, which became a box-office hit in 2021.
Joe Keery Career
Early Career (2015–2019)
Joe Keery’s early career was marked by his role in Stranger Things, which debuted in 2016. His performance as Steve Harrington resonated with audiences and critics alike, earning him recognition and a dedicated fan base. In addition to his work on Stranger Things, Keery starred in the 2020 film Spree, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He also appeared in the action-comedy film Free Guy in 2021, where he played Walter “Keys” McKey, a game developer. The film’s success further solidified his status in Hollywood.
During this period, Keery was also involved in music, contributing to the psychedelic rock band Post Animal, where he played guitar and sang. His musical endeavors complemented his acting career, allowing him to explore his creative talents in multiple fields.
Breakthrough (2016–Present)
Keery’s role in Stranger Things was pivotal in his career, leading to numerous opportunities in both film and television. The show’s popularity resulted in multiple seasons, with Keery’s character evolving significantly. He became a fan favorite, and his performance was widely praised, contributing to the show’s overall success.
In 2023, Keery joined the cast of the fifth season of Fargo, further expanding his acting repertoire. His ability to transition between genres, from science fiction to crime drama, demonstrates his range as an actor. Additionally, his work in Free Guy showcased his comedic timing and ability to engage with a mainstream audience.
Notable Works and Milestones
Joe Keery’s signature work includes his portrayal of Steve Harrington in Stranger Things, which has become iconic in contemporary television. His film Free Guy not only performed well at the box office but also showcased his ability to lead in a major production. Keery’s contributions to music as Djo have also gained traction, with his albums receiving positive reviews and his singles achieving viral success.
Joe Keery Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Joe Keery has received nominations for various awards, reflecting his talent and impact in the entertainment industry. His work in Stranger Things has been particularly recognized, contributing to the show’s numerous accolades.
Joe Keery Awards Won
Joe Keery has achieved recognition for his performances, particularly in Stranger Things, which has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards for the ensemble cast. His contributions to both acting and music continue to earn him respect in the industry.
Joe Keery Family
Joe Keery is the second of five children, though specific details about his family members are not publicly available. His upbringing in a large family may have influenced his collaborative spirit in both acting and music.
Personal Life
Joe Keery dated actress Maika Monroe from 2017 to 2023. Their relationship was often covered in the media, highlighting Keery’s personal life alongside his professional achievements.
