Ed Helms is an accomplished actor and comedian known for his memorable roles in hit comedies like The Hangover trilogy, The Office, and the Vacation reboot. With his wholesome looks and goofy charm, Helms has carved out a successful career playing lovable underdog characters who often find themselves embroiled in outrageous misadventures.
Born in 1974 in Atlanta, Georgia, Helms got his start in comedy as a writer and performer with sketch comedy groups while attending Oberlin College in Ohio. After graduating in 1996 with a degree in film theory and technology, he continued honing his comedic chops as a member of New York‘s Upright Citizens Brigade troupe. He also worked as a trainee writer for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart from 2002 to 2006.
Big Break on The Office
Helms had minor roles in a few films and TV shows in the early 2000s, but his big break came in 2006 when he was cast as paper salesman Andy Bernard on the hit NBC sitcom The Office. Originally slated for only a few episodes, Helms ended up becoming a series regular for 7 years. His cringe-inducing yet endearing character quickly became a fan-favorite, especially for his tuneful acoustic guitar songs and rage-filled outbursts.
During his time on The Office, Helms also landed scene-stealing supporting roles in several mainstream comedies. In 2007‘s Evan Almighty, he played an obnoxious news reporter. The following year, he appeared in the teen comedy Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay.
But it was Helms‘ turn as the anxiety-ridden dentist Stu Price in the 2009 blockbuster The Hangover that cemented his status as one of Hollywood‘s hottest comedic actors. The R-rated buddy comedy became the highest grossing R-rated comedy of all-time up to that point. Helms reprised the Stu role in 2011‘s The Hangover Part II and 2013‘s The Hangover Part III.
Further Film and TV Success
When The Office ended its run in 2013, Helms was already embarking on new starring film roles. In 2015‘s Vacation, he took on the part of Rusty Griswold, the grown-up son of Chevy Chase‘s iconic character Clark Griswold. That same year, he also produced and starred in the independent comedy The Final Girls.
Helms has continued balancing scene-stealing character roles with leading man parts in recent years. In 2018, he starred as an overly competitive tag player in the ensemble comedy Tag alongside Jon Hamm, Jeremy Renner and Jake Johnson. The next year, he played Cameron Diaz‘s husband in the dark comedy The Other Woman.
On the small screen, Helms created, produced and hosted the comedy hybrid series The Fake News with Ted Nelms for Comedy Central in 2017. He‘s also made appearances in shows like Arrested Development, Wilfred, and The Mindy Project.
In addition to acting, Helms has an extensive voiceover resume. He‘s voiced characters in hits like The Lorax, Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie, and the Ice Age sequels.
Music and Bluegrass Banjo
A talented musician as well as an actor, Helms plays guitar and banjo. He formed a bluegrass band called The Lonesome Trio with fellow Oberlin alums Jacob Tilove and Ian Riggs. The band has performed on comedy stages across the country and released an album called Take It Personal in 2019.
Helms also displayed his banjo and vocal skills through his character Andy Bernard on The Office. Many fans‘ favorite moments featured Andy crooning cringey a cappella tunes like "Take A Chance On Me" and "The Pit."
Charity and Advocacy Work
In addition to his creative endeavors, Helms dedicates time to charity work and advocating for causes he believes in. He‘s a founding member of the LA Bluegrass Situation, an organization that promotes bluegrass music in urban communities. He‘s also participated in different campaigns supporting things like AIDS research, disaster relief, and health care reform.
After undergoing jaw surgery in 2012, Helms partnered with the charity Operation Smile to raise awareness about cleft lips and palates. He also supports animal welfare groups like the ASPCA.
Why We Love Ed Helms
He‘s an Incredible Actor
Ed Helms is an incredible actor. He has starred in many hit comedies, such as The Hangover, The Office, and Vacation. His performances are always funny and entertaining, and he brings a lot of energy to every role he plays.
He‘s a Great Person
Ed Helms is also a great person. He is known for being kind and generous with his fans, always taking time to sign autographs or take selfies. He also works actively with charity organizations to help those in need.
He‘s Hilarious
Ed Helms is not only an incredible actor but he is also hilarious. Whether it‘s on a TV talk show or in one of his movies, Ed Helms always finds ways to make us laugh with his wit and humor.
5 Interesting Facts about Ed Helms
1.
Started Career in Comedy
Ed Helms started his career in comedy as a member of The Second City improv troupe in Chicago.
2.
Appeared in Music Videos
Ed Helms has appeared in music videos for bands such as Weezer and OK Go.
3.
Worked at Cartoon Network
Before becoming an actor, Ed Helms worked at the Cartoon Network writing for shows like "Space Ghost Coast to Coast" and "The Brak Show".
4.
Voiced Animated Films
Ed Helms has provided voice work for animated films including "The Lorax" and "Storks".
5.
Played Banjo on "The Office"
On the show "The Office", Ed Helms often played banjo as part of a band he formed with fellow cast members.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Ed Helms birthday?
Ed Helms is a 49-year-old American movie actor best known for his roles on The Hangover films, The Office, and The Daily Show. He was born on January 24th, 1974 in Atlanta, Georgia.
What is the Net Worth of Ed Helms?
Ed Helms has an estimated net worth of $25M. He is an actor, comedian, producer and director. His wealth comes mainly from his long-running roles in The Office, The Hangover, and other movies and TV shows. He has also earned income from work in commercials, hosting, and endorsement deals.
