Actor Jeremy Samuel Piven is a popular Variety entertainer known for his role as Ari Gold in the hit HBO series Entourage, for which he won three consecutive Emmy Awards. He has also starred in the British period drama Mr Selfridge and appeared as Spence Kovak on Ellen. He was born in Manhattan and raised in a Reconstructionist Jewish family. His parents, Byrne and Joyce Hiller Piven were both actors and teachers of theater. His sister, Shira, is a director and describes herself as one of his first acting teachers.

Piven made his name on the screen in the 1980s with several small roles before landing a leading part as Jerry on the Larry Sanders Show and a regular role on Seinfeld. He then branched out with a supporting role in the 1998 crime film Very Bad Things and a starring turn as Nicolas Cage’s best friend in The Family Man. He has since portrayed the dreaded Timekeeper in 2009’s sci-fi flick Spy Kids: All the Time in the World and has even done voice work for various animated projects.

Off-camera Triumphs: Jeremy Piven’s Contributions Beyond Acting

Besides being an accomplished actor, Piven is also a dedicated philanthropist and an advocate for various social issues and causes. His commitment to the environment is especially noteworthy. He has also stepped into the realm of stand-up comedy, which he has found to be a great outlet for his creativity and has received positive reviews from audiences. Outside of his professional pursuits, he maintains a healthy lifestyle and enjoys playing the drums. He is an avid supporter of Chicago sports teams.