Jerry Stiller Biography: Age, Death, Net Worth, Movies, TV Shows, Height, Parents, Wife, Children

Gerald Isaac Stiller, known professionally as Jerry Stiller, was an American comedian and actor renowned for his iconic roles in television and film, most notably as Frank Costanza in Seinfeld and Arthur Spooner in The King of Queens.

With a career spanning over six decades, Stiller gained fame as part of the comedy duo Stiller and Meara with his wife, Anne Meara, performing on stage and television in the 1960s and 1970s.

Profile

• Full Name: Gerald Isaac Stiller
• Stage Name: Jerry Stiller
• Born: 8, June 1927
• Date of Death: May 11, 2020 (Aged: 92 years old)
• Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York City, United States
• Nationality: American
• Occupation: Comedian, Actor
• Height: 1.65m
• Parents: William Stiller, Bella Stiller
• Siblings: Charles Stiller
• Spouse: Anne Meara (m. 1954–2015)
• Children: Amy Stiller, Ben Stiller
• Relationship: Widowed
• Net Worth: $14 million

Early Life and Education

Gerald Isaac Stiller was born on June 8, 1927, in Brooklyn, New York, to William Stiller, a bus driver, and Bella Stiller, a homemaker. He grew up with a brother, Charles Stiller, in a working-class Jewish family during the Great Depression.

Stiller attended Seward Park High School in Manhattan and later enrolled at Syracuse University, earning a bachelor’s degree in speech and drama in 1950. His Jewish heritage shaped his cultural identity, though he was not publicly vocal about religious practices.

Career

Jerry Stiller began his career in the 1950s as a stage actor, performing in Shakespearean plays and off-Broadway productions after serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. He formed the comedy duo Stiller and Meara with his wife, Anne Meara, in the late 1950s, gaining national recognition through appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show and other variety programs.

Their act, blending witty banter with relatable humor, made them a staple in the comedy scene, leading to radio commercials and their own show, Take Five with Stiller and Meara, in the 1970s.

Stiller’s television breakthrough came with his role as Frank Costanza in Seinfeld (1993–1998), where his explosive comedic delivery earned him an Emmy nomination and widespread acclaim. He further solidified his legacy as Arthur Spooner in The King of Queens (1998–2007), playing a quirky, endearing father-in-law alongside Kevin James and Leah Remini.

His film roles included appearances in Hairspray (1988), Zoolander (2001), and The Heartbreak Kid (2007), often alongside his son, Ben Stiller, showcasing his versatility in both comedy and supporting dramatic roles.

Stiller’s influence in comedy and acting endured until his later years, with voice work in animated films like The Lion King 1½ (2004) and guest appearances on shows like Law & Order. His final role was in the 2016 film Zoolander 2.

As a mentor to younger comedians and a collaborator with his family, including daughter Amy and son Ben, Stiller’s contributions to television and film remain celebrated for their humor and heart, shaping the landscape of modern comedy.

Social Media

Gerald Isaac Stiller does not have a verified social media account.

Personal Life

Jerry Stiller married actress and comedian Anne Meara in 1954, and they remained together until her death in 2015. The couple had two children, Amy Stiller and Ben Stiller, both of whom pursued careers in acting and filmmaking.

Based in New York City for much of his life, Stiller was known for his warm, family-oriented personality and dedication to his craft. He supported charitable causes, including arts education, and maintained a modest lifestyle despite his fame.

In his later years, he faced health challenges but remained active in the industry until his passing on May 11, 2020.

Filmography

• The Taking of Pelham One Two Three (1974)
• Hairspray (1988)
• Seinfeld (1993–1998)
• The King of Queens (1998–2007)
• Zoolander (2001)
• The Heartbreak Kid (2007)
• The Lion King 1½ (2004)
• Zoolander 2 (2016)

Net Worth

Jerry Stiller had an estimated net worth of $14 million at the time of his death in 2020. His wealth was primarily derived from his extensive television career, particularly his roles in Seinfeld and The King of Queens, which earned significant syndication royalties.

Additional income came from his film appearances, stage performances with Stiller and Meara, and voice work in animated projects.