Overview
Ellie Kemper is an American actress and comedian recognized for her work on television and in feature films. She came to wider public attention through a recurring role on the U.S. version of The Office and later as the lead of the Netflix comedy Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt. Her screen persona is frequently described as upbeat and physically expressive, a quality that she has used in both comedic and supporting dramatic parts.
Early life and background
Kemper was born on May 2, 1980, in Kansas City, Missouri. She launched a career in performance that blended sketch and character work with scripted television, allowing her to move between ensemble shows and leading parts. Over time she has worked in live comedy venues, television series, and feature films.
Career and notable roles
Her early screen roles included supporting parts in comedies and guest appearances that showcased her timing and physical comedy. She played the character Kelly Erin Hannon on the popular American sitcom The Office, a role that introduced her to a broad television audience. In film, she has appeared in well-known comedies, including a part in 21 Jump Street, and took supporting turns in ensemble releases such as Bridesmaids.
Kemper later starred as the title character in the Netflix series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, a role that highlighted her ability to carry a long-form comedy and to balance naivety with resilience. She has also worked in voice acting and continued to appear in television guest roles and stage projects.
Selected credits
- The Office — Kelly Erin Hannon (television)
- Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt — Kimmy Schmidt (television)
- Bridesmaids — supporting role (film)
- 21 Jump Street — supporting role (film)
Style, reception, and notable facts
Kemper is often noted for a bright, expressive comedic style that blends physicality with a deceptively gentle delivery. Critics and audiences have pointed to her skill at portraying wide-eyed, optimistic characters while letting small gestures convey depth. Outside of acting, she has maintained a public profile that mixes media appearances, philanthropic involvement, and occasional writing and stage work.
For more general biographical information and career details see resources about her life and work, including profiles that collect interviews and selected filmography. She is widely referenced as an American actress with a career spanning television and film.