Joe Keery

Biography

Joe Keery is an American actor and musician best known for his breakout role as Steve Harrington in the globally popular television series Stranger Things. With his charismatic screen presence, emotional range, and growing music career, Keery has established himself as a versatile and respected figure in modern entertainment.

Early Life and Background

Joe Keery was born on April 24, 1992, in Newburyport, Massachusetts, USA. He grew up in a close-knit family as the second of five children. From a young age, he showed an interest in performance, participating in school theatre productions and local acting programs.

He later attended The Theatre School at DePaul University in Chicago, where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in acting. His formal training helped him develop strong foundations in stage performance, character study, and screen acting.

Entry into Acting

Keery began his career with small roles in commercials and short television appearances. His early work included guest roles in series such as Empire and Chicago Fire. Though these roles were brief, they helped him gain industry exposure and practical experience.

His persistence paid off when he auditioned for a role in a new science-fiction series that would soon change his career forever.

Breakthrough with Stranger Things

Joe Keery rose to international fame with his role as Steve Harrington in Netflix’s Stranger Things. Originally introduced as a stereotypical high-school antagonist, his character evolved into one of the most beloved figures in the series due to Keery’s charm, humor, and emotional depth.

Steve Harrington’s transformation into a protective, loyal, and compassionate character became one of the show’s most praised arcs, earning Keery widespread fan appreciation and critical acclaim.

Film Career

Alongside television, Keery expanded his presence in films, appearing in projects such as:

Molly’s Game

Spree

Free Guy

Marmalade

Cold Storage

His performances often balance comedy, tension, and vulnerability, showcasing his versatility across genres.

Music Career

In addition to acting, Joe Keery is an accomplished musician. He performs under the stage name Djo and creates experimental pop and indie music. His albums and singles have received positive attention for their creative production, emotional honesty, and modern sound.

Before launching his solo career, he was part of the band Post Animal. His music career reflects his artistic independence and passion beyond acting.