Ellie Kemper: Biography and Profile at a Glance (2025)
Elizabeth Claire "Ellie" Kemper has built an impressive career on a foundation of sharp comedic timing and dramatic depth. Before becoming a household name, her early life and education laid the groundwork for her success in the entertainment industry.
- Full Name: Elizabeth Claire Kemper
- Date of Birth: May 2, 1980
- Current Age (Dec 2025): 45 Years Old
- Hometown: Kansas City, Missouri (Raised in St. Louis)
- Spouse: Michael Koman (m. 2012)
- Children: Two sons, James (born 2016) and Matthew (born 2019)
- Education: Princeton University (A.B. in English, 2002)
- Notable Early Connection: Actor Jon Hamm was her drama teacher at the John Burroughs School in St. Louis.
- Estimated Net Worth (2025): $12 Million
- Breakout Roles: Erin Hannon in The Office, Kimmy Schmidt in Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
- Recent Projects (2024-2025): Happiness for Beginners (Netflix), Kohl's Mom Campaign.
The Unbreakable Evolution: From Dunder Mifflin to Netflix Stardom
Kemper’s career trajectory is a masterclass in leveraging a beloved supporting role into a starring vehicle. Her time on The Office, where she played the sweet and naive receptionist Erin Hannon, was her first major step into the spotlight. Kemper joined the cast in 2009 and quickly became a fan favorite, providing a fresh, optimistic energy to the Dunder Mifflin Scranton branch.
Following her success on the NBC sitcom, Kemper showcased her versatility in the blockbuster comedy film Bridesmaids (2011), starring alongside Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph. The film's critical and commercial success solidified her status as a comedic force in Hollywood.
The true turning point, however, came with the Netflix series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015-2020). Created by Tina Fey and Robert Carlock, the show cast Kemper as the title character, Kimmy Schmidt, a woman rescued after 15 years in an underground bunker who decides to restart her life in New York City. The role earned her multiple Emmy nominations and allowed her to explore themes of resilience, optimism, and trauma with a unique blend of humor and heart.
The success of her television work paved the way for voice acting roles in major animated franchises, including Katie in The Secret Life of Pets (2016) and a role in The Lego Batman Movie (2017).
What is Ellie Kemper Doing in 2025? Her Latest Projects and Net Worth
Despite being 45 years old, a time when many actors slow down, Ellie Kemper’s career in 2025 remains robust and diverse. Her recent activities reflect a move into more mature, grounded roles and lucrative brand partnerships.
The Impact of 'Happiness for Beginners'
One of her most notable recent projects is the Netflix romantic comedy Happiness for Beginners. Released in 2023, the film continued to see strong streaming performance into 2024 and 2025, showcasing Kemper in a leading role as Helen, a woman seeking a fresh start through a wilderness hiking trip. This role allowed her to demonstrate a more nuanced, contemplative side of her acting, moving beyond the high-energy comedy of her previous iconic characters.
The Lucrative Kohl's Mom Campaign
A major career highlight in 2025 has been her high-profile partnership with the retail giant Kohl's. Kemper stepped into the role of the "Kohl's Mom," becoming the face of their major advertising campaign throughout the year. This kind of endorsement deal is a strong indicator of her broad appeal and trusted public image, further contributing to her financial success.
Ellie Kemper's Estimated Net Worth in 2025
Kemper's consistent work across television, film, and endorsements has resulted in an impressive financial portfolio. As of 2025, her estimated net worth is reported to be around $12 million. This wealth is a culmination of her earnings from:
- Her long-running role on The Office.
- Her four seasons and interactive special for Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt.
- Major film roles in movies like Bridesmaids and Sex Tape.
- Lucrative voice work in animated features.
- Recent advertising campaigns, such as the Kohl's partnership.
Family Life and Personal Milestones
Away from the cameras, Ellie Kemper's personal life is a significant part of her current identity. She is married to television writer and comedian Michael Koman, whom she met while working on the late-night talk show Late Night with Conan O'Brien. The couple married in 2012.
Her family life is a key focus as she navigates her mid-forties. Kemper and Koman are parents to two young sons, James, born in 2016, and Matthew, born in 2019. She has often spoken publicly about the balance of her demanding career with the joys and challenges of raising a family in New York City, demonstrating a relatable side that further endears her to fans.
From her early days performing with the improv comedy troupe Quipfire at Princeton to her current status as a successful actress and mother, Kemper’s journey is defined by a blend of talent, hard work, and an undeniable effervescence that transcends age.
