Joe Keery Biography
Joe Keery is an American actor and musician known for his dual success in television and music. Best recognized for portraying Steve Harrington in Netflix’s Stranger Things and for his music career under the name “Djo,” Keery has built an impressive path defined by creativity and versatility. His blend of acting depth and musical innovation continues to earn global acclaim.
Early Life and Background
Joseph David Keery was born on April 24, 1992, in Newburyport, Massachusetts, United States. He grew up as the second of five siblings in a family that encouraged artistic expression. During school, he attended River Valley Charter School and Newburyport High School before joining Theatre in the Open, where he discovered his love for acting. He later graduated from The Theatre School at DePaul University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting, preparing him for a professional career on both stage and screen.
Personal Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Joseph David Keery |
| Profession | Actor, Musician |
| Date of Birth | April 24, 1992 |
| Age | 33 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Newburyport, Massachusetts, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | BFA in Acting, DePaul University (2014) |
| Zodiac Sign | Taurus |
| Siblings | Four siblings |
| Marital Status | Previously in a relationship with Maika Monroe (2017–2022) |
| Net Worth | Estimated multi-million USD |
| Hobbies | Acting, songwriting, producing music, performing live |
Career Journey
After graduating in 2014, Joe Keery began his career with small television roles and commercials, appearing in Chicago Fire and Empire. His early work included commercial appearances before he landed his breakout role in Stranger Things.
Originally auditioning for a different role, he was cast as Steve Harrington, a character that quickly evolved from a supporting role to one of the show’s central figures. His portrayal received critical and fan acclaim, turning him into an international star.
Beyond the Netflix universe, Keery’s acting credits include Free Guy (2021), where he starred alongside Ryan Reynolds, and Fargo (Season 5), where he played Gator Tillman. In music, performing as “Djo,” he released the albums Twenty Twenty (2019), Decide (2022), and The Crux (2025), all of which earned critical and streaming success for their psychedelic, synth-pop sound.
Achievements and Awards
| Year | Achievement / Recognition |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Screen Actors Guild Award – Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series (Stranger Things) |
| 2018 | SAG Award Nomination – Ensemble (Stranger Things) |
| 2022 | HCA TV Award Nomination – Best Supporting Actor in a Streaming Drama |
| 2025 | Music album The Crux (as Djo) charted in the US and internationally |
Net Worth and Income Sources
Joe Keery’s financial success is fueled by multiple creative avenues:
- Acting salaries from major productions like Stranger Things, Free Guy, and Fargo.
- Music earnings from Djo’s albums, tours, and streaming royalties.
- Brand collaborations and potential endorsement deals.
- Residuals from past acting and commercial work.
His estimated net worth sits in the multi-million range and continues to grow as both his acting and musical careers flourish.
Personal Life
Joe Keery keeps his personal life private. He was in a relationship with actress Maika Monroe for several years before their separation in 2022. Beyond his acting and music careers, he focuses on creative development and self-expression through art rather than social media spotlight. His grounded personality and avoidance of excessive fame make him one of the most respected young artists in Hollywood.
Social Media Presence
Keery maintains a modest social presence, focusing on professional updates and music releases. His music alias “Djo” has dedicated social media pages that engage fans worldwide. His online persona reflects authenticity and artistic focus rather than celebrity-driven content.
Key Takeaways
- Joe Keery is both an accomplished actor and a successful musician.
- His role as Steve Harrington in Stranger Things remains a career-defining performance.
- He continues to gain recognition as Djo, exploring new sounds in modern indie rock.
- His education in acting gives him a strong foundation for performance across mediums.
- He balances fame with creative authenticity and professional integrity.
Conclusion
Joe Keery’s journey from theatre school graduate to global entertainer highlights versatility, dedication, and artistry. With major acting roles and a thriving music career under Djo, he embodies a new generation of artists who seamlessly blend creative forms. His grounded approach and consistent growth ensure that both his acting and music will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.