Summary

  • Jeong's success in comedy was sparked by his role in Judd Apatow's Knocked Up, leading to a streak of iconic film appearances.
  • A real-life doctor, Jeong's scientifically accurate performance in the film paved the way for his own show, Dr. Ken, and more acting roles.
  • Beyond films, Jeong's memorable roles in Community and The Hangover trilogy solidified his status as a modern comedy legend.

Ken Jeong skyrocketed to fame through his impressive streak of appearances in classic comedy movies of the 2000s. For nearly two decades, Jeong has been an iconic figure in the world of comedy and became a global sensation for his role in trilogy as the unforgettable Mr. Chow. After The Hangover Part III was released in 2013, Jeong has maintained his status as one of the biggest names in comedy, appearing in more than 120 films and television shows throughout his illustrious career.

Apart from his memorable film roles, Jeong was also an integral cast member in the legendary comedy series Community, which also starred an incredible ensemble of Joel McHale, Donald Glover, and Alison Brie. Jeong is expected to appear in the long-awaited Community movie, which should begin production soon. While it's hard to imagine a time when Jeong wasn't famous, the celebrated actor and comedian got his big break in a critically acclaimed Judd Apatow film back in 2007.

Seth-Rogen,-Katherine-Heigl,-Paul-Feig-and-BJ-Novak-from-Knocked-Up--
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Ken Jeong Made His Feature Film Debut In Judd Apatow's Knocked Up (& Followed It Up With 4 Consecutive Comedy Hits)

Apatow sparked Ken Jeong's massive comedy career

Ken Jeong in Knocked Up

Jeong's appearance in Knocked Up was followed by other iconic comedies such as Step Brothers, Pineapple Express, Role Models, and The Hangover

Jeong's first appearance in a feature film was in Apatow's landmark comedy movie Knocked Up. The film has an incredible ensemble cast led by Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl, Leslie Mann, and Paul Rudd. Among the many cameos and small roles played by celebrities and comedians in Knocked Up, Jeong played Dr. Kuni, a short-tempered doctor who helps Heigl's character Alison give birth in a hospital. Jeong's noteworthy appearance in Knocked Up would pave the way for continued success in more big comedy films.

Jeong's appearance in Knocked Up was followed by other iconic comedies such as Step Brothers, Pineapple Express, Role Models, and The Hangover. Jeong appeared in all of these films back to back, creating a legendary streak for himself during a histroic time for comedies in Hollywood. Apatow casting Jeong in a minor Knocked Up role ended up sparking Jeong's massive career. After that movie, things really changed for Jeong and he got way bigger comedy roles in both film and television.

Knocked Up is available to stream on Netflix.

Blended image of Chang (Ken Jeong) in Community
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Knocked Up Gave Ken Jeong A Meta Doctor Role 8 Years Before His Big 2-Season TV Show

Jeong was actually a doctor before becoming an actor

Jeong was truly perfectly cast in Knocked Up since he actually was a doctor with a medical degree in real life.

Jeong was truly perfectly cast in Knocked Up since he actually was a doctor with a medical degree in real life. The terminology and advice that Jeong gives to Seth Rogen's character Ben moments before Alison gives birth in the film are scientifically accurate for this reason. Once it became public knowledge that Jeong was truly a doctor, he was able to star in his own show in 2015 called Dr. Ken based on his experiences. Jeong also played a doctor in BoJack Horseman, Lady and the Tamp (2019), and Bob's Burgers thanks to his breakout role in Knocked Up.

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Knocked Up
R
Romance
Comedy
7/10
7.3/10
Release Date
June 1, 2007
Runtime
129 minutes
Director
Judd Apatow

Cast

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WHERE TO WATCH

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Knocked Up is a 2007 comedy about an unplanned pregnancy that results from a drunken one-night stand. Seth Rogen and Katherine Heigl play the two leads, with Paul Rudd, Leslie Mann, and Jonah Hill also sharing the spotlight. The movie was well received by viewers and received a sequel turned spin-off in 2012.

Writers
Judd Apatow
Studio(s)
Universal Pictures
Distributor(s)
Universal Pictures
Budget
$30 million