Ellie Kemper Biography: Elizabeth Claire Kemper, born on May 2, 1980, is an American actress widely recognized for her comedic roles, particularly as Erin Hannon on The Office (2009–2013) and as the title character in Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015–2019). Her film credits include Bridesmaids (2011), 21 Jump Street (2012), Sex Tape (2014), and Home Sweet Home Alone (2021).
Ellie Kemper Biography
Ellie Kemper, whose full name is Elizabeth Claire Kemper, was born on May 2, 1980. She is an American actress, comedian, and writer, best known for portraying Erin Hannon on the NBC sitcom The Office (2005). She also had notable supporting roles in the films Bridesmaids (2011) and 21 Jump Street (2012). Kemper stars in the Netflix comedy series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015), earning widespread critical praise for her performance. In the summer of 2015, she briefly joined The Today Show as a temporary co-host on NBC’s morning news program.
Ellie Kemper Biography 2025 Details
Born |
Elizabeth Claire Kemper
May 2, 1980 Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
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Education | Princeton University (BA) Worcester College, Oxford |
Occupations |
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Years active | 1999–present |
Spouse |
Michael Koman
(m. 2012) |
Children | 2 |
Relatives |
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Category | Singers Bio |
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About Ellie Kemper
Elizabeth Claire Kemper is an American actress, best known for her roles of Erin Hannon in the sitcom The Office and Kimmy Schmidt in the sitcom Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. She has also appeared in films, notably Bridesmaids, 21 Jump Street, Sex Tape, and Home Sweet Home Alone.
Ellie Kemper Achievements
In addition to acting, Kemper authored her first book, My Squirrel Days, in 2018. Kemper has received multiple award nominations throughout her career, including two Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. She’s also been nominated for a Critics’ Choice Movie Award, two Critics’ Choice Television Awards, three Satellite Awards, and seven Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Ellie Kemper Wiki
- Born: 2 May 1980 (age 45 years), Kansas City, Missouri, United States
- Spouse: Michael Koman (m. 2012)
- Education: Princeton University (1998–2002) ·
- Parents: David W. Kemper, Dorothy Ann Jannarone
- Siblings: Carrie Kemper, Billy Kemper, John Kemper
- Height: 1.65 m
Early Life
Kemper was born in Kansas City, Missouri, and is the second of four children born to Dorothy Ann “Dotty” (née Jannarone) and David Woods Kemper. Her father serves as executive chairman of Commerce Bancshares, a financial institution with deep roots in Missouri. She comes from a prominent family—her grandmother, Mildred Lane Kemper, is the namesake of the art museum at Washington University in St. Louis, and her great-great-grandfather was banker William Thornton Kemper Sr.
Her younger sister, Carrie Kemper, is a television writer. Elizabeth has Italian roots through her maternal grandfather and is also of English, French, and German descent. Raised in the Roman Catholic faith, she continues to practice her religion. In 1999, at age 19, Kemper was presented at the Veiled Prophet Ball and named the Queen of Love and Beauty.
Ellie Kemper Family
Raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Ellie is the second of four children born to Dorothy Ann (née Jannarone) and David Woods Kemper. Her father is a prominent businessman and executive chairman of Commerce Bancshares, a family-established bank holding company. She is of Italian, English, French, and German descent and was raised in the Roman Catholic tradition, a faith she continues to practice.
The Kemper family moved to St. Louis when Ellie was five. She attended Conway Elementary School and later John Burroughs School, where her love for acting and comedy blossomed. Actor Jon Hamm, one of her high school teachers, played a part in nurturing her early passion for the performing arts.
Education
Ellie graduated from Princeton University in 2002 with a Bachelor’s degree in English. While at Princeton, she was active in the improv troupe Quipfire! and a member of the Ivy Club. She also briefly played on the school’s field hockey team, contributing to their 1998 national championship. She continued her studies at Worcester College, Oxford, focusing on English literature.
Career Beginnings and Rise to Fame
Ellie began her entertainment career in New York City, performing with comedy groups like the Upright Citizens Brigade and contributing to publications such as The Onion and McSweeney’s. She appeared in commercials—including one for Kmart, which earned her a SAG card—and comedy sketches on Late Night with Conan O’Brien.
Her big break came in 2009 when she was cast as Erin Hannon on The Office. Her quirky, lovable character quickly became a fan favorite and showcased her comedic talent to a wider audience.
Major Works and Accolades
After The Office, Ellie transitioned to film with notable roles in Bridesmaids (2011) and 21 Jump Street (2012). In 2015, she starred as the lead in Netflix’s Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, portraying a woman adjusting to life in New York after being freed from a doomsday cult. The role earned her two consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. In addition to acting, she released her first book, My Squirrel Days, in 2018—a humorous collection of personal essays that further highlighted her storytelling ability. Her accolades include a Golden Nymph Award for The Office and an MTV Movie Award for Bridesmaids, among others.
Personal Life
Ellie married comedy writer Michael Koman in 2012. Koman is known for his work on Late Night with Conan O’Brien and Nathan for You. The couple has two sons, James (born in 2016) and Matthew (born in 2019). Ellie has spoken about maintaining a work-life balance and raising her children with the same values she was brought up with, including their Catholic faith.
Fun Facts and Trivia
- In 1999, Ellie was crowned the Veiled Prophet’s Queen of Love and Beauty at a debutante event in St. Louis, which later drew criticism for its controversial past. In 2021, she addressed the issue publicly, condemning white supremacy and expressing regret over her participation.
- Her sister, Carrie Kemper, is also in the entertainment industry and was a writer on The Office.
- In 2023, Ellie made her Broadway debut in Peter Pan Goes Wrong, earning praise for her comedic skills on stage.
Philanthropy and Public Image
Ellie supports various charitable causes, particularly those focused on education and youth programs. She is admired for her positive demeanor, authenticity, and ability to address controversy with humility and growth. Her efforts to promote kindness, humor, and resilience have made her a role model for aspiring creatives.
Current Work and Cultural Influence
In recent years, Ellie has expanded her horizons, venturing into theater with her 2023 role in Peter Pan Goes Wrong on Broadway. Her seamless transition between television, film, and live theater showcases her range and adaptability. She has expressed interest in continuing to collaborate with diverse talent and exploring new creative projects, including writing. Her influence extends beyond acting—Ellie is seen as a symbol of perseverance, wit, and integrity in the entertainment world. As she continues to take on new roles and creative challenges, Ellie Kemper remains a beloved and respected figure in pop culture.
Ellie Kemper Net Worth 2025
Ellie Kemper’s estimated net worth stands at approximately $12 million. Her wealth stems from her success in television, film, book sales, and endorsements. She and her family reside in a co-op apartment in New York City, leading a relatively private and family-focused lifestyle.
FAQs
Why is Ellie Kemper famous?
Kemper’s big break came in 2010 when she landed the role of Erin Hannon on NBC’s critically acclaimed series, “The Office.” Her portrayal of the quirky receptionist won the hearts of fans, showcasing her impeccable comedic timing and charming on-screen presence.
Is Ellie Kemper a Nepo baby?
Her father is David Kemper, executive chairman of Commerce Bank, and her grandmother, Mildred Lane Kemper, holds the namesake of the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum at Washington University in St. Louis.
Is Ellie Kemper nice?
Kemper, 38, is famously nice, polite and upbeat.
Is Ellie Kemper a natural redhead?
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Who is Ellie Kemper sister?
Carrie Kemper (born March 16, 1984) is an American television writer who worked as a staff writer on the NBC sitcom The Office. She is the sister of actress Ellie Kemper.