Ben Stiller

Ben Stiller (born November 30, 1965, in New York City) is an American screen artist celebrated for combining broad physical comedy with a dry, observant edge. Working as an actor, comedian, director, and producer, he became a defining face of modern studio comedy while also building a reputation behind the camera.

Raised in a show-business family as the son of comedians Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara, Stiller first made waves with sharp parody and sketch work. He created and fronted The Ben Stiller Show, a short-lived but influential series that earned him a Primetime Emmy for writing and helped launch his transition to feature films.

On the big screen, Stiller is widely recognized for hit comedies and franchises, including There’s Something About Mary (Ted Stroehmann), Meet the Parents and Meet the Fockers (Greg Focker), and Night at the Museum (Larry Daley). He also voiced Alex in the Madagascar films, expanding his appeal to family audiences worldwide.

Beyond acting, Stiller has directed and steered projects that show a more dramatic, controlled sensibility, later focusing heavily on television as a director and showrunner. His work has been honored with major industry recognition, including Emmy and Directors Guild of America awards.