Roy Wood Jr Biography: Roy Norris Wood Jr. born December 11, 1978 is an American stand-up comedian and actor best known for his work as a correspondent on The Daily Show. Since September 2024, he has been the host of CNN’s American version of the panel show Have I Got News for You. Currently living in Manhattan, Wood spent much of his upbringing in Birmingham, Alabama, and Memphis, Tennessee. After graduating from Ramsay High School in 1996, he launched his stand-up comedy career, initially opening for comedian Tommy Davidson. From 2001 to 2006, he worked as head writer on the Buckwilde Morning Show on WBHJ radio. Wood gained further recognition as a finalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing in 2010 and for his role in the TBS sitcom Sullivan & Son from 2011 to 2014.
Roy Wood Jr Biography
Roy Wood Jr., currently known for his work as a correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah, has received widespread acclaim for his sharp, socially aware comedy. The Hollywood Reporter described him as “a standout,” while Entertainment Weekly praised his unique comedic voice as “charismatic crankiness.” In 2016, Variety named him one of its “10 Comics to Watch.” Before joining The Daily Show, Roy spent three seasons starring on the TBS sitcom Sullivan & Son.
Roy Wood Jr Biography 2025 Details
| Born |
Roy Norris Wood, Jr.
December 11, 1978 New York City, U.S.
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|---|---|
| Education | Florida A&M University (BS) |
| Occupations |
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| Years active | 1998–present |
| Children | 1 |
| Father | Roy Wood Sr. |
| Category | Singers Bio |
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About Roy Wood Jr
Roy Norris Wood Jr. is an American stand-up comedian and actor who first became well known for his correspondent appearances on The Daily Show. Wood has been hosting the American adaptation of the news and entertainment panel show Have I Got News for You on CNN since September 2024.
Roy Wood Jr Achievements
He remains a frequent guest on shows such as Conan, ESPN’s SportsNation, and Comedy Central’s @Midnight. Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Roy began performing stand-up in 1998 at the age of 19 while attending Florida A&M University. His television debut came in 2006 on The Late Show with David Letterman, and he later placed third in the 2010 season of NBC’s Last Comic Standing
Roy Wood Jr Wiki
- Born: 11 December 1978 (age 46 years), Birmingham, Alabama, United States
- Children: 1
- Parents: Roy Wood Sr., Joyce Dugan Wood
- Height: 1.88 m
- Education: Florida A&M University (BS)
Early Life and Education
Born in Manhattan, New York City, Roy Wood Jr. is the son of Joyce Dugan Wood, a college administrator, and Roy Wood Sr., a pioneering journalist and broadcaster from Birmingham, Alabama, known for covering key moments in civil rights history, including the experiences of Black soldiers in Vietnam, the Soweto uprising, and the Rhodesian Bush War.
During his early years, Wood lived with his mother in Memphis while his parents were separated. After they reconciled when he was in second grade, the family moved to Birmingham and settled on South Park Road in the West End neighborhood. He has a half-brother, Roy L. Wood, who is a news anchor. Wood attended Central Park Elementary and Center Street Middle School before graduating from Ramsay High School in 1996. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in broadcast journalism from Florida A&M University in 2001.
Who Is Roy Wood Jr.?
Born on December 11, 1978, in Birmingham, Alabama, Roy Wood Jr. is a comedian and actor widely recognized for his role as a correspondent on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah. From humble beginnings in local radio to national television prominence, Roy has built a successful and respected career in comedy and entertainment.
Career Highlights
Roy gained national attention after placing third on NBC’s Last Comic Standing, which opened the door to a wave of television opportunities. He solidified his reputation as a sharp-witted voice on The Daily Show and expanded his acting résumé with appearances in acclaimed series like Better Call Saul and Netflix’s Space Force.
Roy Wood Jr.’s Net Worth 2025
As of 2025 Roy Wood Jr.’s estimated net worth stands at around $3 million. His income comes from a blend of stand-up specials, acting roles, podcasting, and production work, reflecting the breadth of his talents and consistent presence in the entertainment industry.
Does Roy Wood Jr. Earn from Christmas Music?
No, that’s a common confusion with British musician Roy Wood of Wizzard, known for the hit “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday.” Comedian Roy Wood Jr. does not earn from holiday music. His income primarily stems from comedy specials, acting gigs, and television appearances.
Where Does Roy Wood Jr. Live?
Though originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Roy now resides in Manhattan, New York. Due to the nature of his work, he frequently travels for performances and projects, but there’s no public connection to Derbyshire, as is sometimes mistakenly believed.
FAQs about Roy Wood Jr.
What inspired Roy Wood Jr. to go into comedy?
Roy’s comedic inspiration comes from his early experiences in the South, where observing social dynamics sparked his interest in using humor to reflect on society.
Has Roy Wood Jr. acted in non-comedic roles?
Yes. In addition to comedy, he has taken on dramatic roles in series like Better Call Saul, showcasing his ability to transition between genres.
How does Roy Wood Jr. support the comedy community?
Beyond performing, Roy mentors emerging comedians and uses his platform to speak on social issues, earning him respect both on and off the stage.
What are his most popular comedy specials?
Some of Roy’s most notable specials include Father Figure (2017), No One Loves You (2019), Imperfect Messenger (2021), and Lonely Flowers (2025), all praised for their smart, socially conscious humor.
How has fame affected Roy Wood Jr.’s personal life?
Though private about his personal affairs, Roy’s career has allowed him to reach a wide audience and use his voice for meaningful advocacy and representation in comedy.