Joe Keery
The actor who transformed a seemingly shallow high school jock into one of television's most beloved and unexpectedly heroic characters.
Born 1992 (age 34)·American actor and musician·Birthday: April 24·Millennials
Biography
Joe Keery's journey to fame is a classic tale of a scene-stealing supporting role taking on a life of its own. Initially cast as Steve Harrington, the archetypal bully boyfriend in 'Stranger Things', Keery infused the character with a surprising vulnerability and growth arc that captured the audience's heart. His evolution from a hairspray-obsessed teen to a loyal, bat-wielding protector of Hawkins' kids became a standout narrative of the series. This success allowed him to pivot into film, choosing eclectic projects like the dark ride-share satire 'Spree' and the blockbuster video game comedy 'Free Guy'. Simultaneously, Keery has quietly built a respected music career under the moniker Djo, crafting psychedelic pop albums that are entirely his own, showcasing a creative drive distinct from his on-screen persona.
Millennials
1981–1996
The first digital natives. Grew up with the internet, came of age during 9/11 and the 2008 crash. Highly educated, deeply indebted, slower to marry and buy houses. Redefined work, identity, and what it means to be an adult.
Joe was born in 1992, placing them squarely in the Millennials. The events that shaped this generation — the internet revolution, 9/11, and the 2008 financial crisis — shaped the world they entered and the choices available to them.
#1 When Joe Was Born
The biggest hits of 1992
#1 Movie
Aladdin
Best Picture
Unforgiven
#1 TV Show
60 Minutes
Joe's Life & Times
The world at every milestone
1992Born
LA riots after Rodney King verdict
Gas: $1.13/galHome: $84,300Min wage: $4.25/hrPresident: George H.W. Bush"End of the Road" — Boyz II MenBest Picture: Unforgiven
1997Started school
Princess Diana dies in Paris car crash; Harry Potter published
Gas: $1.23/galHome: $104,100Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: Bill Clinton"Candle in the Wind 1997" — Elton JohnBest Picture: Titanic
2005Became a teenager
Hurricane Katrina devastates New Orleans; YouTube launches
Gas: $2.30/galHome: $167,500Min wage: $5.15/hrPresident: George W. Bush"We Belong Together" — Mariah CareyBest Picture: Crash
2008Could drive
Barack Obama elected first Black US president; financial crisis
Gas: $3.27/galHome: $153,100Min wage: $6.55/hrPresident: George W. Bush"Low" — Flo RidaBest Picture: Slumdog Millionaire
2010Could vote
Deepwater Horizon oil spill; iPad launched
Gas: $2.79/galHome: $147,800Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Tik Tok" — KeshaBest Picture: The King's Speech
2013Turned 21
Edward Snowden reveals NSA surveillance programs
Gas: $3.53/galHome: $152,800Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Barack Obama"Thrift Shop" — Macklemore & Ryan LewisBest Picture: 12 Years a Slave
2022Turned 30
Russia invades Ukraine; Queen Elizabeth II dies
Gas: $3.97/galHome: $348,700Min wage: $7.25/hrPresident: Joe Biden"As It Was" — Harry StylesBest Picture: Everything Everywhere All at Once
2026Age 34 today
Gas: $3.91/galPresident: Donald Trump
Key Achievements
- Portrayed the fan-favorite character Steve Harrington across all seasons of the global phenomenon 'Stranger Things'.
- Released two full-length studio albums, 'Twenty Twenty' (2019) and 'DECIDE' (2022), under his musical alias Djo.
- Starred as the sinister rideshare driver in the thriller 'Spree', a sharp departure from his most famous role.
- Played a key role in the acclaimed fifth season of the anthology series 'Fargo' as Gator Tillman.
Did You Know?
He was a member of the Chicago-based psychedelic rock band Post Animal before his acting career took off, initially playing guitar for them.
Keery's distinctive voluminous hair on 'Stranger Things' became such a trademark that it was often referenced within the show itself.
He attended the DePaul University Theatre School.
His stage name 'Djo' is pronounced like 'Joe'.
“I think the best way to go about it is to just try and make stuff that you like and that you're proud of.”
