Ken Jeong, born in Detroit on July 13, 1969, operates as an American physician, stand-up comedian, and film actor. Known for his versatility across mediums, he transitioned from a career in internal medicine at a Kaiser Permanente facility in Woodland Hills to a prominent role in international entertainment.
Early Education and Medical Training
Raised in Greensboro, North Carolina, Jeong graduated from Walter Hines Page Senior High School at the age of 16. He later attended Duke University, where he began his initial foray into acting while completing pre-med coursework. He finished his medical degree at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine in 1995. Following his graduation, he completed a medical residency at the Ochsner Medical Center in New Orleans.
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While serving his residency, Jeong won the Big Easy Laff-Off in 1995, an achievement that prompted career guidance from judge Budd Friedman. By 1998, he moved to Los Angeles, balancing clinical work with performances at The Improv and Laugh Factory. His film debut occurred in the 2007 production Knocked Up. After this role, he formally abandoned his medical practice in 2006 to focus on acting, though he retains his medical license.
Television and Film Roles
Jeong achieved significant recognition for his portrayal of Leslie Chow in The Hangover film series and as Ben Chang on the sitcom Community. His filmography includes appearances in Turbo, Penguins of Madagascar, Scoob!, Wonder Park, Tom & Jerry, and the upcoming KPop Demon Hunters. He also created, wrote, and produced the ABC sitcom Dr. Ken, which aired from 2015 to 2017.
Hosting and Panelist Engagements
Jeong serves as a panelist on the American and British versions of the competition series The Masked Singer. He additionally hosts the game show I Can See Your Voice. In 2019, he released his first comedy special, You Complete Me, Ho, on Netflix, and he previously co-hosted the podcast The Darkest Timeline with Joel McHale.
Fast facts
- Born: July 13, 1969, Detroit
- Education: Duke University, UNC School of Medicine
- Medical License Status: Licensed physician in California
- Notable TV Work: Community, The Masked Singer, Dr. Ken
- Notable Film Work: The Hangover, Turbo, Scoob!, Tom & Jerry
- Citizenship: United States and South Korea
Questions readers ask
Did Ken Jeong stop practicing medicine?
Yes, he ceased practicing internal medicine in 2006 to pursue his entertainment career full-time, although he maintains his medical license.
Which shows has Ken Jeong hosted?
He currently hosts the music game show I Can See Your Voice and has previously hosted the Billboard Music Awards and various New Year's Eve programs.
