Ken Jeong, a renowned comedian, actor, and former physician, has made a name for himself with his memorable roles in popular movies and TV series like The Hangover, Community, Dr. Ken, and The Masked Singer. He is celebrated for his comedic prowess, portraying eccentric characters such as the unconventional Spanish teacher Señor Chang and the unforgettable gangster Leslie Chow. But what about his personal life? Is Ken Jeong married with children, or does he identify as LGBTQ+? Here’s all the essential information you need.
Ken Jeong’s Early Life and Education
Born on July 13, 1969, in Detroit, Michigan, Ken Jeong is the child of South Korean immigrant parents, both of whom worked as professors. His upbringing saw him move to Greensboro, North Carolina, at the age of four, where he grew up alongside his two elder twin sisters. Gifted in various aspects, he excelled in academics, sports, music, and theater. Remarkably, he graduated from high school at just 16 and later pursued his pre-med degree at Duke University. Subsequently, he earned his M.D. from the UNC School of Medicine in 1995.
Ken Jeong’s Career as a Comedian and Actor
While studying medicine, Ken Jeong developed a deep passion for comedy and acting. He ventured into stand-up comedy, performing at open mic nights and earning multiple contest victories. Concurrently, he took theater courses at UCLA and participated in several theatrical productions. His move to Los Angeles in 1998 marked the beginning of his acting career, all while maintaining his medical profession at Kaiser Permanente Hospital.
Ken Jeong’s cinematic debut came in the movie Knocked Up (2007), in which he portrayed an obnoxious doctor who assists in delivering Katherine Heigl’s baby. He achieved widespread recognition for his role as Señor Chang in the NBC sitcom Community (2009-2015), gaining fame for his catchphrase, “Ha, gay!” Additionally, his portrayal of Leslie Chow in The Hangover film series (2009-2013) was met with acclaim for his comedic talents and willingness to embrace nudity on screen. Jeong further showcased his creative abilities by creating, writing, producing, and starring in the sitcom Dr. Ken (2015-2017), where he played a fictionalized version of himself as a doctor and family man.
Beyond these accomplishments, Ken Jeong has appeared in various other films and television shows, including Role Models (2008), Furry Vengeance (2010), The Duff (2015), Ride Along 2 (2016), Crazy Rich Asians (2018), Scoob! (2020), and Tom & Jerry (2021). He also serves as a panelist on the American version of The Masked Singer and hosts I Can See Your Voice. His career has earned him numerous awards and nominations, such as the MTV Movie Award for Best WTF Moment and the Teen Choice Award for Choice Movie Villain.
Ken Jeong’s Family and Personal Beliefs
Ken Jeong is not gay; he is in a happy marriage with Tran Ho, a Vietnamese-American family physician whom he met in 2002 and married in 2004. Together, they have twin daughters named Zooey and Alexa, born in 2007. Ken Jeong has been a strong source of support for his wife, who battled breast cancer in 2008 and underwent chemotherapy and a mastectomy. He dedicated his performance in The Hangover to her and expressed his gratitude during his acceptance speech at the MTV Movie Awards. Today, his wife is cancer-free, and their bond remains strong.
Furthermore, Ken Jeong has been vocal in his support for the LGBTQ+ community and their rights. He has openly expressed his acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals and condemned homophobia and discrimination. His art has also served as a means of solidarity, with examples such as his sampling of Boy George’s song “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” in his debut album, “2Pacalypse Now.” Additionally, he collaborated with Elton John on the song “Ghetto Gospel” from the posthumous album “Loyal to the Game” and dedicated his song “Keep Ya Head Up” to Latasha Harlins, a teenager whose tragic death in 1991 had ties to LGBTQ+ rumors.
Conclusion
Ken Jeong stands as a multi-talented comedian and actor who has brought laughter and entertainment to countless fans with his unforgettable characters. Beyond his professional success, he is a devoted husband and father who has faced and overcome significant challenges with his wife. While he identifies as straight, he is a staunch supporter and ally of the LGBTQ+ community and their rights. Ken Jeong’s versatility and artistic vision transcend labels and stereotypes, solidifying his place in the world of entertainment.