Eric Stonestreet is an accomplished American actor who has a net worth of $23 million.Tucker on the hit ABC sitcom “Modern Family” (2009–2020). His exceptional performance on the show earned him two Emmy Awards, solidifying his place in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning over two decades, Stonestreet has built an impressive portfolio of work in television, film, and voice acting.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 9, 1971, in Kansas City, Kansas, Eric Allen Stonestreet grew up with his mother, Jamey, who worked as a teacher’s aide, and his father, Anthony, a retail business owner. As a child, Eric displayed a creative flair and an interest in entertainment, particularly clowning. He created a clown character named Fizbo and started performing at children’s parties by the age of 11. Years later, this childhood character made an appearance in “Modern Family.”
Eric attended Piper High School before enrolling at Kansas State University. During his college years, he pursued sociology while also developing an interest in acting. He participated in several stage productions, including “Prelude to a Kiss,” “All My Sons,” and “Twelfth Night.” Following his graduation in 1996, he further honed his comedic and acting skills at Chicago’s ImprovOlympic and Second City Training Center, where he learned under the guidance of future comedy star Tina Fey.
Career Success
Stonestreet moved to Los Angeles to chase his acting dreams, landing his first television role on “Dharma & Greg” in 1999. His early career saw him making guest appearances on shows like “Malcolm in the Middle,” “Party of Five,” “ER,” and “Spin City.” He also had a recurring role as Ronnie Litre on “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” from 2001 to 2005.
Eric’s film debut came in 2000 with a small role in “Almost Famous,” followed by appearances in movies like “Bad Teacher” (2011) and “Identity Thief” (2013). His breakthrough came in 2009 when he was cast as Cameron Tucker in “Modern Family,” a role that made him a household name. His performance won him two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
Personal Life and Interests
Eric has been in a relationship with pediatric nurse Lindsay Schweitzer since 2016, having met her at a charity event in Kansas City. He is known for his strong support of the LGBTQ community and has openly advocated for equal rights. He once refused to take a picture with politician Rick Santorum due to Santorum’s stance against gay rights.
As a Kansas native, Stonestreet is a devoted sports fan. In 2019, he became part-owner of the Kansas City Royals baseball team and frequently attends Kansas State University football games. He also participates in NASCAR events and has been involved in charitable activities. In April 2020, he won $125,000 on “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” donating the prize to Building Hope for Autism, an organization where his sister, Mauria, serves as executive director.
Through hard work, dedication, and an undeniable talent for comedy, Eric Stonestreet has made an indelible mark in the entertainment world, proving his versatility across various mediums.