Jay Pharoah Bio, Age, Height, Family, Career, Stats, Net Worth, New Movie

Jay Pharoah is an American comedian, actor, and impressionist best known for his standout tenure on Saturday Night Live. Renowned for razor-sharp celebrity impressions and high-energy stand-up, he’s built a versatile career across television, film, voice acting, and live comedy in the United States and beyond.

Early Life & Education

Jay Pharoah was born Jared Antonio Farrow in Chesapeake, Virginia, and raised primarily in Atlanta, Georgia. From an early age, he showed a rare ability to mimic voices and accents—entertaining classmates with impressions of teachers, celebrities, and cartoon characters.

He attended Westlake High School in Atlanta, where he continued developing his comedic skills. Inspired by Eddie Murphy, Will Smith, and Denzel Washington, Pharoah began performing stand-up comedy as a teenager, honing his craft at open mics and comedy clubs throughout the South.

Career Journey

Stand-Up Beginnings

Pharoah’s career started on the stand-up circuit in the mid-2000s. His rapid-fire impressions quickly set him apart, earning him spots opening for established comedians and appearances on comedy showcases.

Breakthrough on Saturday Night Live

In 2010, Jay Pharoah joined NBC’s Saturday Night Live as a featured player, becoming a repertory cast member in 2012. Over six seasons (2010–2016), he became one of the show’s most recognizable impressionists.

Signature impressions included:

• Barack Obama
• Will Smith
• Denzel Washington
• Chris Rock
• Kanye West
• Eddie Murphy

His versatility and vocal precision made him a fan favorite and a staple of political and pop-culture sketches.

Film & Television Work

After leaving SNL, Pharoah expanded into scripted roles and hosting:

• Films: Ride Along (2014), Top Five (2014), Unsane (2018)
• TV Series: White Famous, Champions, Family Guy (voice work)
• Hosting: The Quiz with Balls (Fox)

He also released stand-up specials and continued touring internationally.

Recent Activity (2024–2026)

Pharoah remains active in comedy specials, podcast appearances, voice acting, and film projects, while maintaining a strong presence on social media and live tours.

Career Stats (Highlights)

• SNL Seasons: 6
• Major Celebrity Impressions: 50+
• Stand-Up Specials: Multiple (TV & digital platforms)
• Genres: Comedy, Satire, Voice Acting

Personal Life

Jay Pharoah keeps much of his personal life private. He is known for being fitness-focused and musically inclined, often sharing behind-the-scenes moments from tours and studio sessions.

Relationships & Dating History

Pharoah has been linked to a few public figures through rumors, but he has not confirmed long-term relationships, marriage, or children as of 2026.

Awards & Achievements

• Primetime Emmy Award Nominee (Saturday Night Live)
• Consistently ranked among top SNL impressionists of his era
• Praised by former U.S. President Barack Obama for his impression accuracy

Physical Statistics

• Height: ~175 cm (5 ft 9 in)
• Weight: ~75 kg (165 lbs)
• Build: Athletic
• Hair Color: Black
• Eye Color: Dark Brown

Quotes

• “Comedy is truth. The better the truth, the bigger the laugh.”
• “Impressions are about energy, not just voice.”
• “I don’t just imitate people—I study them.”

Controversies

Pharoah has spoken openly about his experience on SNL, including concerns about creative direction and treatment of cast members. His comments sparked industry discussion but did not significantly affect his career trajectory.

Favorites

• Comedy Influences: Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle
• Music Genres: Hip-hop, R&B
• Fitness Routine: Strength training and cardio

Salary & Net Worth

During his SNL years, Pharoah reportedly earned industry-standard cast salaries, increasing with tenure. His income now comes from stand-up tours, acting roles, hosting, and voice work.

Estimated Net Worth (2026): $6–8 million, based on entertainment industry benchmarks and touring revenue.

Interesting Facts

• He can switch between impressions mid-sentence without breaking rhythm.
• His Barack Obama impression was personally praised by Obama himself.
• Began stand-up comedy as a teenager.

Did you know already?

Jay Pharoah often records new impressions by studying interviews frame-by-frame—focusing more on cadence and energy than exact vocal pitch.

Social Media Links

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaypharoah
• Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/JayPharoah
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JayPharoah

Frequently Asked Questions

How long was Jay Pharoah on SNL?
He was a cast member from 2010 to 2016, spanning six seasons.

What is Jay Pharoah best known for?
His celebrity impressions, especially Barack Obama, Will Smith, and Denzel Washington.

Is Jay Pharoah married?
No. He is not married as of 2026.

What is Jay Pharoah’s net worth?
Estimated between $6 and $8 million.

Does Jay Pharoah still do stand-up comedy?
Yes. Stand-up remains a core part of his career.

Conclusion

Jay Pharoah carved his place in comedy through precision, versatility, and relentless work ethic. From Saturday Night Live to global stand-up stages, he continues to evolve as a performer who blends sharp observation with unmistakable energy. If you enjoyed this biography, share it with comedy fans and pop-culture followers.