Drew Carey Biography

Short Summary

Drew Carey is a renowned American comedian, actor, and game show host, best known for his work on "The Drew Carey Show" and as the host of the American version of the game show "The Price Is Right." His career spans several decades and encompasses stand-up comedy, television, and film. Carey has become a beloved figure in American entertainment, recognized for his humor and approachable personality.

Early Life & Education

Drew Carey was born on May 23, 1958, in Cleveland, Ohio. He was the youngest of three brothers in a working-class family. His father passed away when he was eight, which had a profound impact on his upbringing. Carey attended James Ford Rhodes High School and later enrolled at Kent State University. During college, he faced academic challenges and was expelled twice due to poor performance. However, his time at Kent State was crucial in developing his comedic skills, as he began performing stand-up comedy during this period. He also served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, which instilled in him discipline and resilience.

Career Highlights

Carey's career took off in the late 1980s when he gained recognition as a stand-up comedian. His appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" in 1991 was a significant breakthrough. In 1995, he starred in "The Drew Carey Show," a sitcom based on a fictionalized version of himself, which ran for nine successful seasons. He further solidified his status as a television icon by hosting the improvisational comedy show "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" from 1998 to 2007. In 2007, Carey became the host of the popular game show "The Price Is Right," a role he continues to hold, bringing his unique humor and charm to daytime television.

Major Achievements

Starred in "The Drew Carey Show," a successful sitcom that aired for nine seasons.
Hosted "Whose Line Is It Anyway?," contributing to its popularity and success.
Took over as host of "The Price Is Right" in 2007, revitalizing the iconic game show.
Published his autobiography, "Dirty Jokes and Beer: Stories of the Unrefined," which became a bestseller.

Famous Quotes

"I don't care if my jokes are appropriate for a kid."
"Hate is a strong word. It’s okay to dislike someone but to hate a person is just too much."

Interesting Facts

Before becoming a comedian, Carey worked as a bank teller and a waiter.
He is an avid sports fan and part-owner of the Seattle Sounders FC soccer team.
Carey is a dedicated advocate for libraries and literacy.
He has appeared in several WWE events, showcasing his love for wrestling.

Legacy / Influence

Drew Carey's impact on television and comedy is significant, with his work on sitcoms and game shows leaving a lasting mark on American entertainment. His approachable style and everyman appeal have endeared him to audiences, making him a beloved figure. Carey's transition from stand-up comedy to successful television shows and game hosting has inspired many comedians to explore diverse avenues in the entertainment industry.