Biography
Who is Will Arnett?
Early life and real name
Will Arnett was born William Emerson Arnett in Toronto, Canada, on May 4, 1970. His parents were Edith Alexandria Palk and Emerson James Arnett. He grew up with older twin sisters and a younger brother. His father worked as a corporate lawyer and brewer, serving as the president and CEO of Molson Breweries from 1997 to 2000.
As a teenager, he attended several schools, including Lakefield College School, Subway Academy II, and Leaside High School. Encouraged by his mother to pursue acting, he auditioned for commercials in Toronto before moving to New York City in 1990. He studied acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute and appeared in local plays.
How Will became famous
Will faced early struggles in his television career, appearing in several pilots that were not picked up. He experienced a difficult period around 2000 after a show was cancelled, battling alcoholism before getting his career back on track. His breakthrough came in 2003 when he was cast as George Oscar Gob Bluth II in the Fox comedy series Arrested Development.
The role brought him mainstream success and critical acclaim, despite the show initially ending after three seasons due to low ratings. His performance as Gob established his reputation for playing smug comedic antagonists and opened doors to larger feature film roles.
Career highlights
Will expanded his resume with numerous film appearances, including Let's Go to Prison, Blades of Glory, Semi-Pro, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Known for his deep baritone voice, he also established a successful voice-acting career. He voiced characters in animated films such as Ratatouille, Horton Hears a Who!, Despicable Me, and The Lego Movie franchise.
On television, he earned multiple Emmy nominations for his recurring role as Devon Banks in 30 Rock. From 2020 to 2025, he hosted the reality series Lego Masters. He also co-hosts the comedy podcast SmartLess alongside Sean Hayes and Jason Bateman.
Family and relationships
Will has been married twice. His past spouses include Penelope Ann Miller and Amy Poehler. He has two children named Archie Arnett and Abel Arnett.
Birthday and age
Will Arnett was born on May 4, 1970, which makes Will 56 years old today. That birthday falls under the Taurus sign. Will shares the date with 57 other famous people.
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