Bradley Cooper: actor & filmmaker, winner of BAFTA, 2 Grammy Awards, 9 Oscar noms.
Full Name: Bradley Charles Cooper
Age: 48
Birthday: January 5, 1975
Death Date: N/A
Birth Sign: Capricorn
Born: United States
Relationship: Single
Height: 6′ 1′′
Net Worth: $100M
Early Life and Education
Bradley Charles Cooper was born on January 5, 1975 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Gloria and Charles Cooper. His father worked as a stockbroker for Merrill Lynch while his mother worked for a local NBC affiliate. Cooper grew up in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania with his older sister Holly.
From a young age, Cooper was an eager performer who loved making people laugh. However, he struggled academically due to dyslexia, a learning disability that made reading difficult. To help him focus, his parents enrolled him in the Caruso School of the Performing Arts.
After graduating from Germantown Academy in 1993, Cooper attended Villanova University before transferring to Georgetown University. There, he graduated with honors with a Bachelor‘s degree in English in 1997. He was also fluent in French after spending six months as an exchange student in Aix-en-Provence, France.
Career Beginnings
After college, Cooper moved to New York City to attend the Actors Studio Drama School at the New School. He performed in numerous off-Broadway productions and made his first on-screen appearance as a presenter on the tourism show “Globe Trekker” in 1998.
His big break came in 1999 when he was cast as Jake on Darren Star’s drama series “Sex and the City.” That same year, he made his feature film debut in the coming-of-age comedy “Wet Hot American Summer.”
Over the next few years, Cooper steadily built up his acting resume with supporting roles in hit comedies like “Wedding Crashers” and “Failure to Launch.” But it was his recurring role as Will Tippin on the action series “Alias” from 2001-2006 that earned him his first real taste of fame.
Breakout with The Hangover
In 2009, Cooper finally became a household name after being cast as Phil Wenneck in the buddy comedy “The Hangover.” The R-rated film centered around Phil and his friends on a wild bachelor party weekend in Las Vegas. It became a surprise commercial hit, grossing over $467 million worldwide.
Thanks to his breakout performance as the eccentric, quick-witted Phil, Cooper’s career reached new heights. He returned for the successful sequels “The Hangover Part II” (2011) and "The Hangover Part III" (2013), cementing his status as a comedic leading man.
Dramatic Roles and Directorial Debut
Eager to branch out into more serious fare, Cooper earned his first Oscar nomination in 2012 for his poignant turn as a man with bipolar disorder in David O. Russell’s “Silver Linings Playbook.” His emotional performance opposite Jennifer Lawrence demonstrated his range and talent.
He went on to earn two more Oscar nods for his supporting roles in Russell‘s “American Hustle” (2013) and Clint Eastwood’s biopic “American Sniper” (2014). During this time, he also made his directorial debut with the 2015 culinary drama “Burnt,” establishing himself as a force both in front of and behind the camera.
A Star is Born
In 2018, Cooper co-wrote, directed, produced and starred in the musical romantic drama “A Star is Born” opposite pop sensation Lady Gaga. He played rock star Jackson Maine who falls in love with an aspiring singer named Ally.
The film was acclaimed by critics and nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Cooper. It also won the Grammy for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for the track “Shallow.” With over $435 million grossed globally, “A Star is Born” marked the highest peak of Cooper‘s decorated career.
Personal Life
Despite being such a globally recognized celebrity, Cooper keeps his personal life very private. From 2006 to 2008, he was briefly married to actress Jennifer Esposito before divorcing. He also had high-profile romances with actresses Renée Zellweger, Zoe Saldana and Suki Waterhouse.
In 2015, Cooper began dating Russian model Irina Shayk after meeting at a Broadway show. They welcomed a daughter named Lea De Seine Shayk-Cooper in March 2017. After four years together, Cooper and Shayk amicably split in 2019 but remain friends and co-parent their daughter.
Off-screen, the beloved actor is known for being humble, gracious and generous with fans. He gives back via his integral involvement with the charity Hole in the Wall Gang Camp, which serves kids with serious illnesses.
Bradley Cooper Career Timeline
2000 – Makes his Broadway debut in revival of "The Elephant Man"
2001-2006 – Plays Will Tippin on TV series "Alias"
2005 – Appears in hit comedies "Wedding Crashers" and "Failure to Launch"
2009 – Stars in breakthrough role as Phil in "The Hangover" film series
2011 – Named "Sexiest Man Alive" by People Magazine
2012 – Earns first Oscar nomination for "Silver Linings Playbook"
2014 – Receives back-to-back Oscar nods for "American Hustle" and "American Sniper"
2015 – Makes directorial debut with drama "Burnt"
2018 – Writes, directs, produces, and stars in "A Star is Born"
2019 – Wins Grammy Award for "Shallow" from "A Star is Born"
Why We Love Bradley Cooper
He‘s an incredible actor – Cooper disappears into every role he takes on, portraying each character flawlessly from comedic leads to dramatic biopics. His dedication to his craft is evident in his consistently phenomenal performances.
He has undeniable charisma – With those captivating blue eyes, wry smile, quick wit and cool confidence, Cooper just oozes charisma on and off-screen. He has a magnetic movie star quality about him that is impossible to ignore.
He‘s more than just a pretty face – While obviously blessed with leading man looks, Cooper has proven himself to be so much more by taking smart, strategic risks that highlight his versatility and impeccable talent as both an actor and filmmaker.
He‘s humble and gracious – Despite his immense success, Cooper is remarkably down-to-earth and grateful for the opportunities he‘s been given. He treats co-stars, crew members and fans with equal kindness and respect.
He gives back – Cooper is dedicated to philanthropy, especially for causes supporting children. His generous spirit and desire to help others makes him even more lovable.
5 Fun Bradley Cooper Facts
1. Early gig was on "Sex and the City" – In 1999, Cooper made one of his first TV appearances playing Jake, a friend of Carrie Bradshaw who makes out with her in the elevator.
2. He was People‘s Sexiest Man Alive in 2011 – Cooper won this coveted honor that year joining the ranks of the hottest men in entertainment.
3. He was roommates with Conan O‘Brien – When Cooper first moved to Los Angeles, his housemate was none other than the future late night talk show host.
4. He loves cooking – Cooper enjoys unwinding by cooking meals for friends at his home. Pasta and steak are some of his specialties.
5. Speaks fluent French – During his semester abroad in college, Cooper became fluent in French which he got to use in films like "Midnight in Paris."
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Bradley Cooper‘s birthday?
Bradley Cooper was born on January 5, 1975. He is currently 48 years old.
What is Bradley Cooper‘s net worth?
According to reports, Bradley Cooper‘s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million dollars. His wealth comes from his lucrative acting and producing career over the past two decades.
Is Bradley Cooper married?
No, Cooper is currently not married. He was briefly married to actress Jennifer Esposito from 2006 to 2007. He shares a daughter with former girlfriend Irina Shayk.
What was Bradley Cooper‘s first major movie role?
Cooper‘s first major movie role was Phil Wenneck in the 2009 hit comedy “The Hangover.” This breakout part propelled him to stardom.
How many Oscar nominations does Bradley Cooper have?
Bradley Cooper has been nominated for 8 Academy Awards in total, including 4 nominations for Best Actor for his roles in “Silver Linings Playbook,” “American Hustle,” “American Sniper” and “A Star is Born.”