Ken Jeong is a multi-talented American entertainer and physician hailing from Detroit. He gained widespread recognition for his hilarious portrayal of Ben Chang on the sitcom “Community.”
And the unforgettable gangster Leslie Chow in “The Hangover” film series. Jeong starred in, created, wrote, and executive produced the ABC sitcom “Dr. Ken.”
Some lesser-known facts about Ken Jeong include his background as a licensed physician.
He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and completed his residency in internal medicine at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
Ken Jeong Wiki/Bio
Net Worth: | $14 Million |
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Age: | 54 |
Born: | July 13, 1969 |
Gender: | Male |
Height: | 1.66 m (5 ft 5 in) |
Country of Origin: | United States of America |
Source of Wealth: | Professional Actor/Comedian |
Last Updated: | Jul 6, 2024 |
Early Life
Ken was born to South Korean immigrants in Detroit, Michigan, on July 13, 1969. His early life was marked by a strong emphasis on education, which his academically-minded parents instilled in him.
Jeong excelled in school and showed an early interest in the sciences, eventually leading him to pursue a medical career.
Despite his academic achievements, Jeong also had a flair for the performing arts, participating in various school plays and developing a keen sense of humor that would later define his career in entertainment.
Education
His academic journey is as impressive as his entertainment career.
After graduating from Walter Hines Page High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, where he was named a Greensboro Area High School Student of the Year, Jeong attended Duke University.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in 1990, majoring in pre-med. After his undergraduate studies, Jeong enrolled at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine.
When he received his M.D. in 1995, his commitment to medicine did not stop there; he completed his residency in internal medicine at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
Throughout his rigorous medical training, Jeong continued to nurture his passion for comedy, performing stand-up during his free time and eventually balancing both of his callings with remarkable success.
Parents and Siblings
He solid academic foundation is mainly attributed to his supportive family. His parents, D.K. Jeong and Young Jeong, immigrated from South Korea to the United States for better opportunities.
D.K. Jeong was a professor of economics at North Carolina A&T State University, while Young Jeong was a devoted homemaker.
Both parents valued education highly and instilled the importance of academic success in their children from a young age.
Ken has two older sisters who pursued academic careers, highlighting the family’s dedication to education.
This supportive and intellectually stimulating environment undoubtedly shaped Ken Jeong’s multifaceted career path.
Wife and Kids
His personal life is marked by the same dedication and love he brings to his professional endeavors.
He is married to Tran Ho, a physician. The couple met while working in a hospital and have been inseparable since.
Tran Ho, who specializes in family medicine, has supported Ken through the ups and downs of his medical and entertainment careers.
Jeong often credits his wife and kids for keeping him grounded and providing the emotional motivation to pursue his diverse interests.
Balancing his bustling career with family life, Ken exemplifies how passion, hard work, and a robust support system can lead to a fulfilling life at home and in the public eye.
Career
He began his remarkable career as an internal medicine resident at Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
While pursuing medicine, he also honed his stand-up comedy skills. Eventually, Ken moved to California, where he obtained his medical license.
In 1997, Ken made his acting debut with a guest role in the crime drama series The Big Easy.
This was just the beginning of several TV roles, including appearances in The Downer Channel, Girls Misbehaving, Significant Others, and Crossing Jordan.
Ken gained additional fame with his performances in the hit sitcom Two and a Half Men and Entourage series. In 2007, he made his film debut in the comedy Knocked Up, directed by Judd Apatow.
As Ken’s acting career flourished, he transitioned to supporting roles in popular shows like Bob’s Burgers, Sullivan & Son, Maron, Turbo Fast, and Hot in Cleveland.
He also lent his voice to films such as Despicable Me 2, Turbo, and Birds of Paradise.
One of Ken’s most iconic roles is Mr. Chow in the blockbuster trilogy The Hangover, where he starred alongside Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis, and Ed Helms.
Ken has formed a unique bond with actor Jamie Foxx. The two share a pact to star in films written or produced by each other, showcasing their mutual admiration and commitment to collaborative creativity.
Net Worth
Ken is a versatile talent with an impressive net worth of $14 million.
Originally a physician, Ken began his career in stand-up comedy while earning his medical degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
After relocating to Los Angeles, he seamlessly balanced his dual passion for medicine and comedy, ultimately becoming a household name in entertainment.
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Real Estate
His success in entertainment has afforded him the luxury of investing in impressive real estate properties.
In 2010, he bought a stunning Mediterranean-style home in Calabasas, California, for approximately $3.95 million.
This lavish estate features six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, and a spacious outdoor area with a swimming pool and scenic views of the surrounding hills.
Additionally, Jeong has other properties that reflect his taste for comfort and luxury.
These investments underscore his financial understanding and ability to maintain a comfortable lifestyle for his family while focusing on his demanding career.
His real estate portfolio is just one more testament to his multifaceted success and the rewards of his hard work and dedication.
Hobbies and Interests
- Stand-Up Comedy: Despite his commitments as an actor and physician, Ken remains passionate about stand-up comedy, often performing at various comedy clubs.
- Golf: Ken is an avid golfer and enjoys spending his free time on the golf course, honing his skills and enjoying the outdoors.
- Music: He deeply appreciates music, particularly jazz, and often attends live performances whenever his schedule permits.
- Movies and Television: Ken enjoys watching a wide range of films and TV shows for leisure and to stay inspired as a performer.
- Fitness: Staying physically fit is essential to Ken. He often engages in various fitness activities, including jogging and strength training.
- Cooking: Ken loves experimenting in the kitchen and creating diverse dishes for his family. He often finds it relaxing and rewarding.
Social Media
FAQs
How long was Ken Jeong a practicing doctor?
He was a practicing doctor for approximately Seven years before fully transitioning to his entertainment career.
Does Ken Jeong still have a medical license?
Yes, Ken Jeong still has a medical license. While he has chosen to focus on his entertainment career, he maintains his medical credentials and stays current with field developments.
How rich is Ken Jeong?
His estimated net worth is $14 million.
What nationality is Ken Jeong?
Ken Jeong is of American nationality.
Conclusion
Ken Jeong’s journey from medicine to comedy is a testament to his relentless work ethic, unwavering passion for multiple fields, and strong family support.
His diverse talents, impressive net worth, and comfortable lifestyle are all products of his dedication and drive.
Ken continues to inspire others through his multifaceted success and serves as a role model for those looking to balance multiple passions in life.
So, if you’re feeling stuck in your career or unsure about pursuing your interests, remember Ken Jeong’s story: anything is possible with hard work, determination, and the support of loved ones.