Jon M. Chu Bio
Jonathan Murray Chu (born November 2, 1979) is an American film director, producer, and screenwriter. He is known for directing the romantic comedy Crazy Rich Asians (2018), which featured a majority cast of Asian descent, and for his work on the upcoming adaptations of the musicals Wicked. He has a strong background in dance films, having directed notable projects such as Step Up and the concert film Justin Bieber: Never Say Never. His contributions to the film industry have earned him recognition and awards, including those for Best Director.
Early Life and Background
Jon M. Chu was born in Palo Alto, California, and grew up in nearby Los Altos. His mother, Ruth Chu, was born in Taiwan, while his father, Lawrence Chu, was born in Sichuan, China. The family owns the restaurant Chef Chu’s, and Jon is the youngest of five children. He began making movies at a young age when his mother gifted him a video camera to document family vacations. Instead of simple documentation, he created home movies featuring his siblings.
Chu attended Pinewood School from kindergarten through 12th grade. He later pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts in film and television production from the University of Southern California, graduating in 2003. During his time at USC, he was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and received several accolades, including the Princess Grace Award and the Kodak Student Filmmaker Award. In 2006, he launched a YouTube channel to showcase his early work and behind-the-scenes vlogs.
Path to Hollywood
After making his student short film, When the Kids Are Away, Jon M. Chu was signed to the William Morris Agency and attached to several high-profile projects. He was initially hired by Sony Pictures to direct a contemporary adaptation of the stage musical Bye Bye Birdie, but the project was not greenlit due to budget concerns. He was later re-hired to direct an updated version of The Great Gatsby, which ultimately did not materialize as the project was acquired by Warner Bros. Pictures.
In 2008, Chu directed Step Up 2: The Streets, which marked the beginning of his career in dance films. He went on to create, co-direct, and co-produce The Legion of Extraordinary Dancers, a web series that showcased various dance styles. In 2011, he directed Justin Bieber: Never Say Never, a 3-D concert film that further solidified his reputation in the industry. Chu’s passion for dance and music has been a recurring theme in his work, inspiring him to create films that resonate with audiences.
Jon M. Chu Career
Early Career (2001–2017)
Jon M. Chu’s early career began with a series of notable projects that showcased his unique style and vision. After directing Step Up 2: The Streets in 2008, he continued to explore the dance genre with Step Up 3D in 2010. In 2013, he directed G.I. Joe: Retaliation, which further expanded his portfolio. His breakthrough came with the release of Crazy Rich Asians in 2018, which became a cultural phenomenon and grossed over $35 million at the U.S. box office during its opening weekend.
Following the success of Crazy Rich Asians, Chu was involved in various projects, including directing In the Heights, based on the Broadway musical. The film was released on June 10, 2021, after delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Chu’s ability to blend music, dance, and storytelling has made him a sought-after director in Hollywood.
Breakthrough (2018–Present)
The release of Crazy Rich Asians in 2018 marked a significant turning point in Jon M. Chu’s career. The film was celebrated for its representation of Asian culture and became the highest-grossing film over the August 17, 2018, weekend. Its success led to plans for a sequel, with Chu set to return as director. The film received critical acclaim, earning a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
In 2021, Chu directed In the Heights, which was also well-received and showcased his ability to adapt stage musicals for the big screen. His upcoming projects include the highly anticipated two-part adaptation of Wicked, set for release in November 2024 and 2025. Chu’s work continues to push boundaries and explore themes of identity and culture, making him a prominent figure in contemporary cinema.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jon M. Chu’s signature work includes Crazy Rich Asians, which not only achieved commercial success but also made a significant impact on representation in Hollywood. His direction has garnered him several awards, including the National Board of Review Award for Best Director and the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Director for his work on Wicked.
Jon M. Chu Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jon M. Chu has received numerous nominations for his work in film, recognizing his contributions to the industry and his ability to tell compelling stories.
Jon M. Chu Awards Won
Jon M. Chu has won several prestigious awards, including the National Board of Review Award for Best Director and the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Director, highlighting his talent and impact in the film industry.
Jon M. Chu Family
Jon M. Chu is married to graphic designer Kristin Hodge, with whom he tied the knot on July 27, 2018, in St. Helena, California. The couple has five children, including their daughter Willow, born in 2017, and their son Jonathan Heights, born in 2019. Their other children include daughter Ruby, son Iggy, and daughter Stevie Sky.
Personal Life
Jon M. Chu’s personal life is characterized by his commitment to family and his passion for filmmaking. He often draws inspiration from his own experiences and cultural background, which is reflected in his work. His marriage to Kristin Hodge and their growing family play a significant role in his life, influencing both his personal and professional endeavors.
