Jordan Peele is a multifaceted American filmmaker, comedian, actor, and writer who has significantly influenced modern cinema and comedy. Initially gaining prominence through the sketch comedy series Key & Peele, Peele transitioned into filmmaking with his directorial debut, Get Out (2017), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay. His unique approach to storytelling, often blending horror with social commentary, has redefined genre boundaries and garnered both critical and commercial success.
Bio
Jordan Haworth Peele was born on February 21, 1979, in New York City. He began his career in comedy, performing with improvisational groups like Boom Chicago and The Second City. Peele joined the cast of MADtv in 2003, where he met future collaborator Keegan-Michael Key. Together, they created and starred in the acclaimed sketch series Key & Peele (2012–2015), which won two Primetime Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award. In 2012, Peele founded Monkeypaw Productions, a company known for producing thought-provoking content across film and television.
Early Life
Raised on Manhattan’s Upper West Side by his single mother, Lucinda Williams, Peele developed an early interest in film and storytelling. He attended The Calhoun School and later enrolled at Sarah Lawrence College, where he studied theater. After two years, Peele left college to pursue a career in comedy, performing with groups like Boom Chicago and The Second City.
Family
Peele’s mother, Lucinda Williams, is white and hails from Maryland, while his father, Hayward Peele Jr., was African American from North Carolina. Peele last saw his father when he was seven years old. In 2016, Peele married comedian and actress Chelsea Peretti. The couple welcomed their first child in 2017.
Career
Peele’s transition from comedy to filmmaking marked a significant shift in his career. His directorial debut, Get Out (2017), was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $255 million worldwide on a $4.5 million budget. The film earned Peele an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, making him the first Black writer-director to surpass $100 million at the box office with a debut feature.
He continued his success with Us (2019), which grossed $256 million globally, and Nope (2022), which brought in $171 million worldwide. Peele has also produced notable projects like BlacKkKlansman (2018), Candyman (2021), and the upcoming film Him (2025).
In 2019, Peele signed a five-year, first-look deal with Universal Pictures, reportedly worth between $300–$400 million, further solidifying his influence in the industry.
Net Worth
Jordan Peele’s net worth is estimated at $50 million. This wealth stems from his multifaceted career as a comedian, actor, writer, director, and producer, as well as his lucrative deal with Universal Pictures.