Joe Keery is an American actor and musician who is 5’11’’ and weighs 163 lbs. His lean body and signature voluminous hair have become part of his recognizable image, especially as Steve Harrington in Stranger Things. His boyish charm mixed with a touch of stylish vibe has helped him transition seamlessly between acting and music.
Joe Keery’s Acting Career and Ventures
Keery began in commercials for brands like Domino’s Pizza and KFC, and worked as a pizza delivery driver. In 2015, he auditioned for Netflix’s Stranger Things and was cast as Steve Harrington. This character, as a stereotypical high school bully, evolved into one of the show’s most beloved figures. Keery’s portrayal of Steve brought depth, humour, and heart to the series, and his character became a fan favourite. His performance helped Stranger Things become a cultural phenomenon, and Keery himself emerged as a rising star.
Before his acting fame, Keery was a member of the psychedelic rock band Post Animal, based in Chicago. He played guitar and contributed vocals, but left the band in 2019 to focus on his solo music career and acting career. Under the stage name Djo, Keery has released two albums: Twenty Twenty in 2019 and Decide in 2022.
Keery writes, records, and produces much of his music himself, showcasing his multi-instrumental talents and creative vision. His music videos and live performances as Djo are often bizarre and visually striking, reflecting his interest in blending art, music, and storytelling. Keery became a fashion icon, making appearances in retro-inspired outfits and embracing bold styles that reflect his artistic sensibilities.
Keery hasn’t received a major acting award, but his work in Stranger Things has earned him nominations from the Screen Actors Guild Awards and MTV Movie & TV Awards. Beyond Stranger Things, Keery has appeared in films such as Slice, Spree, and Free Guy. His ability to transition between genres from sci-fi to comedy to psychological thrillers has made him relevant in the industry scenes. His music as Djo has been featured in several publications and playlists, earning him a growing fanbase in the music scene.
Joe Keery Personal Life and Background
Joe Keery was born on April 24, 1992, in Newburyport, Massachusetts, to David and Nina Keery. His father worked in the software industry as an architect, while his mother was an English professor. He attended River Valley Charter School and Newburyport High School. Keery participated in a theatre camp at Maudslay State Park. He pursued his passion formally at The Theatre School at DePaul University in Chicago, graduating in 2014 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting.
Keery has been in a long-term relationship with actress Maika Monroe, known for her roles in It Follows and Independence Day: Resurgence. The couple has kept their relationship private and occasionally appear together at events or share glimpses on social media. The couple’s shared background in acting and minor film has made them an admired couple in Hollywood circles. Despite his fame, Keery remains close to his family and often returns to Massachusetts to visit.
