Jon Hurwitz

Biography

Jonathan Benjamin "Jon" Hurwitz, born November 15, 1977, in Byram, New Jersey, is an American screenwriter, director, and producer renowned for his contributions to contemporary comedy and television. His early years saw relocations from Byram to Roxbury, Upper St. Clair Township in Pennsylvania, and eventually Randolph, New Jersey. It was at Randolph High School where Hurwitz met his future collaborator, Hayden Schlossberg.

Pursuing higher education, Hurwitz attended the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School, majoring in finance. During his freshman year, he became friends with Josh Heald, who would later join him and Schlossberg in various creative endeavors. Schlossberg, studying history at the University of Chicago, frequently visited Hurwitz, strengthening their partnership.

Hurwitz and Schlossberg's first significant break came when they sold their script "Filthy" to MGM while still in college. This success prompted their move to Los Angeles to pursue careers in the entertainment industry. Their breakthrough came with the 2004 stoner comedy "Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle," inspired by their high school experiences and friends. The film's success led to sequels, including "Harold & Kumar's Escape from Guantanamo Bay" (2008) and "A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas" (2011).

In 2012, Hurwitz and Schlossberg co-wrote and directed "American Reunion," the fourth installment in the "American Pie" series, revisiting the original characters and bringing a fresh perspective to the franchise.

Perhaps most notably, Hurwitz, along with Schlossberg and Heald, co-created "Cobra Kai," a continuation of the "Karate Kid" saga. Debuting in 2018, the series explores the lives of Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso decades after their original rivalry, blending nostalgia with contemporary storytelling. The show has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

On a personal note, Hurwitz married Randy Hurwitz on June 30, 2007, and the couple has two children.

Throughout his career, Jon Hurwitz has demonstrated a keen ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling, creating content that resonates across generations.