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Ryan Ken
Born 1991/1992 (age 33–34)
South Carolina, U.S.
Occupation Actor, writer, comedian
Years active 2020–present

Ryan Ken is a talented American writer, actor, and comedian. They are well-known for their funny short videos, called sketch comedy. These videos are shared on popular social media sites like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. Many important news and entertainment groups, such as Vulture, The Hollywood Reporter, and NPR, have noticed Ken's work. They have also won two Primetime Emmy Awards and a WGA Award for their writing on the TV show Last Week Tonight.

Early Life and Learning

Ryan Ken grew up in South Carolina, a state in the U.S. They first acted in a play when they were in elementary school. Even though they enjoyed acting, Ken decided to focus on playing the violin instead.

Later, they went to the Art Institute of Chicago. There, they earned a master's degree in arts administration. This degree helps people manage and lead arts organizations.

Ryan Ken's Creative Career

Ryan Ken became widely known in 2020. This was during the COVID-19 pandemic. Creating sketch comedy videos helped them deal with stress during that time. They shared these videos on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

What are Ryan Ken's Videos About?

Many of Ken's videos make fun of current events or popular culture. They often talk about important social topics in a funny way. For example, some videos have shown a lunch break on a movie set or a neighbor listening to a couple argue. Another video was like a famous interview series, but with a politician. One sketch showed an actor trying out for a role as a friend in a 90s TV show.

A writer from Shondaland.com said Ken's videos are not just about jokes. They help us think about common ideas we might have ignored.

How Ryan Ken Became More Famous

Ryan Ken became even more famous when Tina Knowles shared one of their videos. This video was a funny version of a scene from the movie Malcolm & Marie. In 2021, many big media groups recognized Ken's work. These included Vulture, The Hollywood Reporter, Los Angeles Times, and NPR.

Other Projects and TV Work

Besides their videos, Ryan Ken also co-hosts a podcast called Let Me Back Up. They host it with Jennie Crichlow. In 2022, Ryan Ken joined the writing team for the popular TV show Last Week Tonight with John Oliver.

About Ryan Ken

Ryan Ken identifies as non-binary. This means they do not identify as only a boy or only a girl. They use they/them as their pronouns.

Awards and Recognitions

Ryan Ken has won several important awards for their writing.

Year Award Category Nominated work Result Ref
2022 Primetime Emmy Awards Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series Last Week Tonight with John Oliver Won
2023 Writers Guild of America Awards Comedy/Variety Talk Series Won
2024 Primetime Emmy Award Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series Won
2024 Primetime Emmy Award Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series Won
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