Ellie Kemper is a name that sparks joy and laughter for many. Known for her infectious smile and comedic timing, she has become a beloved figure in the entertainment world. But who is Ellie Kemper beyond her roles in "The Office" and "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt"? Did you know she was a debutante before hitting the big screen? Or that she has a degree in English from Princeton University? Ellie Kemper's journey from a small-town girl to a Hollywood star is filled with interesting twists and turns. Let's dive into 31 fascinating facts about this talented actress that will make you appreciate her even more. Whether you're a long-time fan or just curious, these tidbits will give you a deeper look into the life of Ellie Kemper.
Ellie Kemper: The Comedic Star
Ellie Kemper is a name that brings a smile to many faces. Known for her infectious energy and comedic timing, she has carved out a unique space in Hollywood. Here are some fascinating facts about this talented actress.
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Ellie Kemper was born on May 2, 1980, in Kansas City, Missouri. She grew up in a large family with three siblings.
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Her full name is Elizabeth Claire Kemper. She chose to go by "Ellie" professionally.
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Kemper attended Princeton University, where she majored in English. She was also a member of the university's improv comedy troupe, Quipfire!
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Before making it big in Hollywood, she studied at the University of Oxford for a year.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Ellie's journey to stardom wasn't overnight. She worked hard and took on various roles before landing her big break.
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She started her career in comedy with the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre in New York City.
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Ellie appeared in several commercials, including a well-known one for Kmart.
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Her big break came when she was cast as Erin Hannon on the hit TV show "The Office" in 2009.
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Kemper's role on "The Office" was initially supposed to be temporary, but her character became so popular that she stayed on the show until it ended in 2013.
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
One of Ellie's most iconic roles is Kimmy Schmidt, a character that has become synonymous with her name.
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Ellie starred in the Netflix series "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," which premiered in 2015.
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The show was created by Tina Fey and Robert Carlock, who specifically wanted Ellie for the lead role.
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Kemper's portrayal of Kimmy earned her two Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.
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The series ran for four seasons and concluded with a special interactive episode in 2020.
Personal Life and Interests
Ellie is not just a talented actress; she has a rich personal life and a variety of interests.
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She married Michael Koman, a writer and producer, in 2012. The couple has two sons.
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Ellie is an avid reader and often shares her book recommendations on social media.
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She has a passion for writing and has contributed articles to publications like The New York Times and The Huffington Post.
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Kemper is also a skilled pianist, having taken lessons for many years.
Fun and Quirky Facts
Ellie Kemper is full of surprises. Here are some fun and quirky facts about her.
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She once worked as a nanny for Conan O'Brien's children.
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Ellie has a sweet tooth and loves baking cookies in her free time.
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She has a pet dog named Penny, who often makes appearances on her social media.
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Kemper is a huge fan of the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team.
Awards and Recognition
Ellie's talent has not gone unnoticed. She has received several awards and nominations throughout her career.
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She won a Webby Award for Best Actress for her role in "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt."
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Ellie received a Critics' Choice Television Award nomination for Best Actress in a Comedy Series.
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She was named one of Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People in the World in 2015.
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Kemper has also been nominated for several Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of the ensemble cast of "The Office."
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Ellie uses her platform to give back and advocate for causes she believes in.
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She is an advocate for children's education and has worked with organizations like Room to Read.
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Ellie supports various environmental causes and has participated in campaigns to promote sustainability.
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She has also been involved in fundraising efforts for cancer research.
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Kemper is a supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and has participated in events to promote equality and acceptance.
Future Projects and Endeavors
Ellie Kemper continues to work on exciting new projects and explore different facets of her career.
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She has expressed interest in directing and hopes to work behind the camera in the future.
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Ellie is set to star in several upcoming films, including a comedy with her "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" co-star, Tituss Burgess.
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She is also working on a memoir, which will give fans a deeper look into her life and career.
Ellie Kemper: A Remarkable Journey
Ellie Kemper's life is full of interesting twists and turns. From her early days in St. Louis to her breakout role in "The Office," she's shown incredible talent and versatility. Her comedic timing and infectious energy have made her a household name. Beyond acting, Ellie’s also a writer, contributing to publications like The Onion and McSweeney's. She’s not just a funny face; she’s got brains and heart too. Her philanthropic efforts and dedication to family show a different side of the star we see on screen. Whether she’s making us laugh or inspiring us with her off-screen endeavors, Ellie Kemper is truly one-of-a-kind. Her journey reminds us that with hard work and a bit of humor, anything’s possible. Keep an eye on Ellie; she’s bound to surprise us with what she does next.
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