46 Facts About Ken Jeong

Early Life and Education

Ken Jeong was born on July 13, 1969, in Detroit, Michigan. His parents, Korean immigrants, raised him in Greensboro, North Carolina. Jeong’s father was a professor, and his mother was a pharmacist. He graduated from Walter Hines Page High School in 1986.

Pursuing a Medical Career

Jeong initially pursued a career in medicine. He attended Duke University, where he earned his undergraduate degree in pre-med. He later went on to graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine in 1995.

The Transition to Comedy

After completing his medical training, Ken Jeong decided to pursue his true passion for comedy. He began performing at open mic nights and stand-up comedy clubs while still maintaining his medical practice.

Breakthrough Role in “The Hangover”

Jeong gained widespread recognition for his role as Mr. Chow in the hit comedy film “The Hangover” (2009). His unforgettable performance as the eccentric gangster propelled him to stardom.

Multi-Talented Actor

Ken Jeong has showcased his versatility as an actor by taking on a diverse range of roles. From comedies like “Knocked Up” (2007) and “Pineapple Express” (2008) to action films like “Transformers: Dark of the Moon” (2011), he has proven his ability to excel in different genres.

Stand-Up Comedy Specials

Jeong has released stand-up comedy specials, including “You Complete Me, Ho” (2019) on Netflix. In his specials, he combines personal stories with his trademark humor, providing audiences with an entertaining and relatable experience.

Becoming a TV Sensation

Ken Jeong gained further fame through his recurring role as Señor Chang in the TV series “Community” (2009-2015). His portrayal of the eccentric and unpredictable character became a fan favorite.

“Dr. Ken” TV Series

Jeong starred in and produced the sitcom “Dr. Ken” (2015-2017), drawing inspiration from his real-life experiences as a physician. The show tackled various aspects of his dual identities as a doctor and a comedian.

Heartfelt Tribute to His Wife

In 2008, Jeong’s wife, Tran Ho, was diagnosed with breast cancer. Despite facing a challenging time, Jeong stayed by her side, taking a break from acting to support her during her treatment. He credits her strength and resilience for his continued success.

Recognizing His Cultural Impact

Ken Jeong acknowledges the significance of his success as an Asian-American comedian, taking pride in his ability to break barriers and open doors for other underrepresented communities in the entertainment industry.

Medical Knowledge in On-Screen Roles

With his medical background, Ken Jeong has been able to incorporate his knowledge into various on-screen roles. He played a doctor in the TV series “The Office” (2007-2013) and the film “Knocked Up” (2007).

Return to Medicine

Despite making a name for himself in the entertainment industry, Ken Jeong has not entirely left his medical career behind. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Jeong volunteered as a licensed physician to help administer COVID-19 vaccines.

Voice Acting in Animation

Jeong has lent his voice to various animated films and TV shows. Some notable examples include his roles in “Despicable Me” (2010), “The Penguins of Madagascar” (2014), and “Bob’s Burgers” (2011-present).

The Ken Jeong Effect

Jeong’s unique comedic style and infectious energy have become known as the “Ken Jeong Effect.” The term refers to his ability to uplift and entertain audiences, leaving a lasting impact on their comedic experiences.

YouTube Channel

Ken Jeong maintains an active presence on YouTube, where he shares comedic sketches, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews. His channel has attracted a large following, further expanding his reach as a comedian.

A Doctor’s Advice

During interviews and public appearances, Jeong often incorporates humorous anecdotes and medical advice, offering a comedic twist to health-related conversations.

Author of “The Best Patient Advocate”

Kenn Jeong published a book titled “The Best Patient Advocate: Effective Strategies for Healthcare Navigation” in The book provides valuable insights and guidance to individuals navigating the complex healthcare system.

Iconic Cameo in “Crazy Rich Asians”

In the blockbuster film “Crazy Rich Asians” (2018), Jeong made a memorable cameo appearance as Goh Wye Mun, showcasing his ability to steal the spotlight even in brief appearances.

Hosting Award Shows

Jeong has hosted several award shows, including the Billboard Music Awards in 2018 and the American Music Awards in His charismatic and entertaining hosting style has been widely praised.

Collaboration with Rapper Dua Lipa

Ken Jeong collaborated with renowned singer Dua Lipa in the music video for her hit song “Don’t Start Now” (2020). His comedic presence added an extra layer of entertainment to the popular music video.

Philanthropic Efforts

Jeong actively supports various charitable causes, including Stand Up To Cancer and the Alzheimer’s Association. He has participated in charity events and used his platform to raise awareness and funds for these organizations.

Unforgettable MTV Movie Awards Moment

In 2013, Jeong and his “The Hangover” co-stars Bradley Cooper and Ed Helms won the MTV Movie Award for Best WTF Moment for their performance in the film. Jeong delivered a hilarious acceptance speech that has since become legendary.

Memorable Guest Appearances

Jeong has made memorable guest appearances on popular TV shows such as “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” “Saturday Night Live,” “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” and “Conan,” showcasing his ability to bring laughter wherever he goes.

Team Player in “The Masked Singer”

Ken Jeong is one of the panelists on the hit reality singing competition show “The Masked Singer.” His witty remarks, hilarious guesses, and playful banter with fellow panelists have become an integral part of the show’s charm.

Stand-Up Comedy Background

Prior to his breakthrough in Hollywood, Jeong honed his comedic skills through stand-up comedy. His experiences on the stand-up circuit shaped his unique brand of humor and helped him develop his comedic timing.

Celebrated Filmography

Ken Jeong has an impressive filmography, having appeared in over 60 films to date. Some of his notable film credits include “Role Models” (2008), “Crazy, Stupid, Love” (2011), “Ride Along 2” (2016), and “Crazy Rich Asians” (2018).

Resident Comedian on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”

Jeong made regular appearances on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” as a resident comedian, further establishing his comedic prowess and providing audiences with endless laughter.

Inspiration from Richard Pryor

Ken Jeong has cited legendary comedian Richard Pryor as one of his biggest inspirations. Pryor’s fearlessness, honesty, and ability to find humor in difficult topics have influenced Jeong’s approach to comedy.

Awards and Nominations

Jeong has been recognized for his outstanding comedic performances with several award nominations over the years, including the MTV Movie Awards and the Teen Choice Awards.

Worldwide Recognition

Ken Jeong’s talent has garnered him international recognition, with fans from all around the world appreciating his unique blend of comedy and charisma.

Comedic Timing in “Community”

Ken Jeong’s portrayal of Señor Chang in the TV series “Community” showcased his impeccable comedic timing. His unpredictable and offbeat character provided countless laughs throughout the show’s run.

Voicing Characters in Video Games

In addition to his work in animation, Jeong has lent his voice to various video game characters, including characters in the popular series “Call of Duty” and “Fallout 76.”

Social Media Presence

Ken Jeong actively engages with his fans through social media platforms, such as Twitter and Instagram, where he shares updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and comedic content.

Iconic Line in “The Hangover”

Jeong’s character, Mr. Chow, delivered the now-iconic line, “Hurry up and buy!” in “The Hangover.” The line became a fan favorite and continues to be quoted by fans worldwide.

Indie Film Ventures

Despite his success in mainstream comedy films, Ken Jeong has also ventured into independent films, showcasing his versatility and willingness to take on diverse roles.

Comedic Improvisation Skills

Jeong’s ability to think on his feet and deliver hilarious improvisations have been showcased in various films and TV shows, adding an extra layer of spontaneity to his performances.

Jokes Inspired by Personal Experiences

Ken Jeong often incorporates stories and jokes inspired by his own life experiences in his comedic performances, creating a relatable and authentic connection with his audience.

Guest Judge on “America’s Got Talent”

Jeong has made guest appearances as a judge on the popular talent show “America’s Got Talent,” injecting his signature humor and providing entertaining feedback to aspiring performers.

The Power of Laughter

Ken Jeong believes in the power of laughter as a means of building connections and spreading joy. He consistently brings laughter to his audiences through his performances and public appearances.

Academic Achievements

In addition to his comedic and acting pursuits, Jeong has a strong academic background. He was a National Merit Scholar in high school and completed his residency training in internal medicine at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.

Embracing Dual Identities

Ken Jeong embraces his dual identities as a doctor and a comedian, finding ways to incorporate both aspects of his life into his work and using his platform to discuss health-related issues.

Collaboration with Zach Galifianakis

Jeong has collaborated with fellow comedian Zach Galifianakis on multiple projects, including “The Hangover” series and the FX comedy series “Baskets,” further solidifying their comedic chemistry.

Character Development in “The Hangover” Trilogy

Throughout “The Hangover” trilogy, Ken Jeong’s character, Mr. Chow, undergoes significant development, showcasing Jeong’s ability to bring depth and complexity to his comedic roles.

Bringing Laughter to Healthcare Professionals

Ken Jeong has made it a mission to bring laughter and joy to healthcare professionals, recognizing the challenging nature of their work. He has surprised medical staff with impromptu performances and expressions of gratitude.

Family-Oriented Individual

Despite his busy schedule, Ken Jeong remains dedicated to his family. He often emphasizes the importance of family in interviews, highlighting the support and love they provide.

Continuing to Thrive

Ken Jeong’s career continues to thrive, with upcoming projects that are sure to entertain and delight audiences worldwide. His unique talent and comedic genius guarantee that he will remain a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for years to come.

There you have it – 46 facts about Ken Jeong that offer a glimpse into the incredible life and career of this remarkable comedian. From his early years as a medical student to his breakout performances in movies and TV shows, Jeong has left an indelible mark on the world of comedy. With his unstoppable humor and infectious energy, he continues to captivate audiences and spread laughter wherever he goes. Whether you know him as the hilarious Mr. Chow or the quick-witted Señor Chang, Ken Jeong is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry.

So, the next time you watch one of Ken Jeong’s films or catch him on stage, remember these 46 fascinating facts about the man behind the laughter. And be prepared to laugh until your sides hurt, because with Ken Jeong, comedy truly knows no bounds.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ken Jeong is a multi-talented and highly accomplished individual, with a career that spans across medicine, comedy, and acting. His unique blend of humor and wit, coupled with his impressive academic background, has made him one of the most recognizable celebrities in the entertainment industry. From his breakthrough role in “The Hangover” to his hilarious antics on “The Masked Singer,” Jeong continues to captivate audiences with his larger-than-life personality and undeniable talent.

FAQs

Q: What is Ken Jeong’s educational background?

A: Ken Jeong holds an undergraduate degree from Duke University and a medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Q: How did Ken Jeong transition from medicine to comedy?

A: After completing his residency in internal medicine, Ken Jeong decided to pursue his passion for comedy. He started performing stand-up and eventually gained recognition for his hilarious and unique style of comedy.

Q: What are some notable movies and TV shows that Ken Jeong has appeared in?

A: Some of Ken Jeong’s notable movie appearances include “The Hangover,” “Crazy Rich Asians,” and “Knocked Up.” He has also been a part of successful TV shows like “Community” and “The Masked Singer.”

Q: Has Ken Jeong won any awards for his work?

A: Yes, Ken Jeong has received several recognitions for his performances. He won the MTV Movie Award for Best WTF Moment for “The Hangover” and the Teen Choice Award for Choice Comedian for his role in “Community.”

Q: Apart from acting and comedy, has Ken Jeong been involved in any other ventures?

A: Yes, Ken Jeong has showcased his talents in various other areas. He has released a comedy special, authored a book titled “The Hoopla over Healing,” and even served as a judge on the reality singing competition show, “The Masked Singer.”