Who Is Jillian Bell? Age, Bio, Career & Net Worth Revealed!

Jillian Bell has quietly become one of Hollywood’s most versatile comedic talents. From her early days as a Saturday Night Live writer to stealing scenes in blockbuster comedies like 22 Jump Street, this American actress, comedian, and screenwriter has built an impressive career spanning nearly two decades.

Born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, Bell started studying improv at just eight years old. That early foundation led her to The Groundlings, SNL’s writers’ room, and eventually to starring roles in hit shows like Workaholics and critically acclaimed films like Brittany Runs a Marathon. Whether she’s delivering deadpan comedy, dramatic performances, or voicing animated characters, Bell brings the same fearless commitment to every project.

Quick Bio: Jillian Bell at a Glance

From writing for Saturday Night Live to becoming one of Hollywood’s most reliable comedic forces, Jillian Bell has built a career that spans television, film, and voice acting. Let’s dive into the fascinating journey of this Las Vegas native who conquered Hollywood with nothing but talent, determination, and impeccable comedic timing.

Who is Jillian Bell?

Jillian Leigh Bell is an American actress, comedian, and screenwriter born on April 25, 1984, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Standing at 5’6″ (1.68m), Bell has made an outsized impact on comedy despite never becoming a household name in the traditional sense.

What makes Bell unique is her versatility. She’s equally comfortable writing sharp sketch comedy, delivering deadpan one-liners on television, or carrying an entire film on her shoulders. Unlike many comedians who stick to one lane, Bell has proven she can do it all.

Her career began in improv comedy, transitioned into television writing, and eventually blossomed into a successful acting career that continues to flourish today. She’s the kind of performer who makes everything better just by showing up.

Early Life and the Birth of a Comedian

Jillian Bell grew up in Henderson, Nevada, just outside Las Vegas. While most eight-year-olds were playing with toys, Bell was studying improvisational theatre. Yes, you read that right—she started learning improv at age eight.

This early start gave her a massive advantage. By the time other comedians were discovering comedy in college, Bell already had over a decade of experience under her belt. She attended Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, graduating in 2002.

After high school, Bell made the move that countless aspiring entertainers make: she headed to Los Angeles. But unlike many who arrive with stars in their eyes and no plan, Bell had a clear path. She joined The Groundlings, one of the most prestigious improv and sketch comedy theaters in the world.

The Groundlings has launched the careers of comedy legends like Will Ferrell, Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, and Melissa McCarthy. Training there isn’t just about learning comedy—it’s about mastering the craft at the highest level.

The Saturday Night Live Chapter

In 2009, Bell auditioned for Saturday Night Live. While she didn’t land a spot in the cast, she impressed the producers enough to be hired as a writer for the show’s 35th season.

Being a writer on SNL is no joke. The job requires churning out fresh, funny material week after week under intense pressure. You’re writing for some of the most talented performers in comedy while trying to predict what will make millions of viewers laugh.

Bell excelled in this environment. Her work was so strong that she earned a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series in 2010. That’s an incredible achievement for someone in their first major television writing job.

Though her time at SNL was relatively brief (2009-2010), it proved she could hang with the best comedy writers in the business. It also gave her valuable connections and experience that would serve her throughout her career.

Breakthrough with Workaholics

In 2011, everything changed for Jillian Bell when she landed the role of Jillian Belk on Comedy Central’s Workaholics. The show followed three friends who work together and live together while trying to do as little actual work as possible.

Bell played Jillian Belk, a colleague at the telemarketing company where the main characters worked. What started as a recurring role grew into something much bigger. Bell’s character became a fan favorite, and she appeared in multiple seasons of the show.

Her performance on Workaholics showcased her ability to hold her own alongside the show’s male-dominated cast. She brought a manic energy and fearless commitment to every scene. Whether her character was being weird, aggressive, or unexpectedly vulnerable, Bell made it work.

The show ran for seven seasons (2011-2017), giving Bell steady work and significant exposure. For many viewers, Workaholics was their introduction to Jillian Bell, and she made sure they remembered her.

Catching the Eye of Paul Thomas Anderson

Success on Workaholics opened unexpected doors. Legendary film director Paul Thomas Anderson saw Bell’s work on the show and was impressed enough to cast her in two of his films.

First came The Master in 2012, the critically acclaimed drama starring Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Bell had a small role, but working with Anderson and that caliber of actor was invaluable experience.

Anderson cast her again in Inherent Vice (2014), his adaptation of the Thomas Pynchon novel. These roles showed Hollywood that Bell wasn’t just a television comedian—she could handle dramatic material and work in prestigious films.

Getting cast by Paul Thomas Anderson is like getting a stamp of approval from one of cinema’s greatest living directors. It signaled that Bell had range and could be taken seriously as an actress, not just as comic relief.

Stealing Scenes in 22 Jump Street

In 2014, Bell appeared in 22 Jump Street alongside Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum. Her role as Mercedes, the aggressive and unpredictable romantic interest, became one of the film’s highlights.

Bell played the character with such commitment that she earned two MTV Movie Award nominations in 2015: Best Fight (with Jonah Hill) and Best Villain. That’s right—she was so convincingly intense that audiences considered her the villain of a comedy.

The fight scene between Bell and Hill became legendary. It’s uncomfortable, hilarious, and showcases Bell’s willingness to go all-in for a joke. Many actors would pull punches in a comedy fight scene, but Bell made it look brutally real.

This role proved Bell could steal scenes from established movie stars. In a film filled with funny moments, her scenes stood out. Hollywood took notice.

Building a Film Career

Following her success in 22 Jump Street, Bell’s film career accelerated. She appeared in a string of movies throughout the mid-2010s:

Goosebumps (2015): Bell co-starred in this family-friendly adaptation of R.L. Stine’s beloved book series, showing she could work in different genres.

The Night Before (2015): This Christmas comedy reunited her with Comedy Central connections and proved her comedy chops in an ensemble cast.

Fist Fight (2017): Bell appeared alongside Ice Cube and Charlie Day in this comedy about teachers preparing to fight each other.

Rough Night (2017): In this bachelorette party gone wrong comedy, Bell starred with Scarlett Johansson, showing she could hold her own alongside A-list talent.

Each role added to Bell’s resume and proved her reliability. She became someone directors could count on to deliver laughs and elevate the material.

Idiotsitter: Creating Her Own Show

In 2016, Bell took creative control by co-creating, writing, and starring in Idiotsitter for Comedy Central. The show started as a web series in 2014 before being picked up for television.

Bell played Gene, the constantly misbehaving adult daughter of wealthy parents who needs a babysitter. The premise was absurd, but Bell and co-creator Charlotte Newhouse made it work through their chemistry and commitment to the bizarre humor.

The show ran for two seasons (2016-2017) and gave Bell the opportunity to shape her own comedy vision. As executive producer, writer, and star, she had complete creative control. While Idiotsitter didn’t become a massive hit, it showed Bell could create original content and carry a show.

The Role of a Lifetime: Brittany Runs a Marathon

In 2019, Jillian Bell delivered a career-defining performance in Brittany Runs a Marathon. This wasn’t just another comedy role—it was a dramatic, heartfelt, and deeply human character that showcased Bell’s full range as an actress.

Bell played Brittany, a woman approaching 30 who realizes her lifestyle is unsustainable. She decides to make a change by taking up running, eventually setting her sights on completing the New York City Marathon.

The film dealt with serious themes: body image, self-worth, toxic friendships, and personal growth. Bell handled all of it with grace, humor, and emotional honesty. She made Brittany flawed and occasionally unlikeable while keeping the audience rooting for her.

Critics raved about Bell’s performance. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and earned widespread praise. Bell proved she wasn’t just funny—she was a legitimate dramatic actress who could carry an entire film.

For her work on Brittany Runs a Marathon, Bell received the Fairbanks Award at the San Diego International Film Festival and the Next Wave Award at the Provincetown International Film Festival in 2019. She also served as executive producer, showing her growing influence behind the camera.

Voice Acting and Animation Work

Bell has also built an impressive voice acting resume. Her distinctive voice and comedic timing translate perfectly to animation:

Bless the Harts (2019-2021): Bell voiced Violet Hart in this Fox animated series about a struggling Southern family trying to make ends meet while remaining optimistic.

Bob’s Burgers: She’s made multiple appearances on this beloved animated comedy, voicing different characters across several episodes.

Sausage Party: Foodtopia (2024): Bell joined the cast of this animated series, voicing Trish in the continuation of the raunchy animated film.

Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (2024): Bell voiced Lee the Eel, showing her range in action-oriented animation.

Voice acting allows Bell to take on roles she couldn’t physically play and showcase her vocal versatility. It’s become a steady part of her career alongside live-action work.

Recent Work and Continued Success

Jillian Bell hasn’t slowed down. Her recent projects show she’s as in-demand as ever:

Godmothered (2020): Bell starred as the Fairy Godmother in this Disney+ film alongside Isla Fisher. The family-friendly comedy showed Bell could headline a major streaming release.

I’m Totally Fine (2022): This sci-fi comedy premiered at SXSW and featured Bell as Vanessa, a woman dealing with grief in unexpected ways. Bell also served as executive producer.

Candy Cane Lane (2023): Bell appeared in this Amazon Prime Video Christmas comedy starring Eddie Murphy.

Murder Mystery 2 (2023): She joined Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston in the Netflix sequel as Susan.

Kinda Pregnant (2025): Bell starred as Kate in this comedy about a woman who fakes a pregnancy.

Reunion (2024): Bell played Vivian Chase and served as executive producer on this dark comedy.

Bell has also returned to Curb Your Enthusiasm, the show where she made an early appearance in 2009. In 2024, she reprised a role, coming full circle in her career.

Personal Life and Relationships

Beyond her career, Jillian Bell keeps much of her personal life private. As of June 2024, she’s engaged to Luke McGarry, an illustrator and musician. The couple keeps a relatively low profile despite Bell’s fame.

Bell’s family includes her father Ron Bell and her sibling Breanna Bell. She maintains connections to her Las Vegas roots while building her life in Los Angeles.

Despite her success, Bell doesn’t seek the spotlight outside of her work. She’s not a tabloid fixture or Instagram influencer—she lets her performances speak for themselves.

What Makes Jillian Bell Special?

So what sets Jillian Bell apart in an industry full of talented comedians?

Fearlessness: Bell commits fully to every role, no matter how weird or uncomfortable. She’s willing to look silly, aggressive, or vulnerable if the scene requires it.

Versatility: She can write, act, produce, and voice characters across multiple genres. Few performers have such a diverse skill set.

Groundedness: Even in her most outrageous roles, Bell keeps characters grounded in recognizable human emotions. Her comedy comes from truth, not just punchlines.

Work Ethic: Starting improv at age eight and maintaining a steady career for nearly two decades requires dedication and professionalism.

Range: Bell can do broad physical comedy, subtle character work, dramatic acting, and everything in between.

Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Jillian Bell has earned recognition for her work:

• 2010: Emmy nomination for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series (Saturday Night Live)
• 2015: MTV Movie Award nominations for Best Fight and Best Villain (22 Jump Street)
• 2019: Fairbanks Award at San Diego International Film Festival
• 2019: Next Wave Award at Provincetown International Film Festival

While she hasn’t won major industry awards, Bell’s critical acclaim and steady work speak to her talent and reliability.

The Future Looks Bright

At 40 years old, Jillian Bell is hitting her stride. She’s established herself as a dependable character actress, a talented writer, and an executive producer who can shepherd projects from conception to completion.

The comedy landscape has changed dramatically since Bell started. Streaming services need content, limited series formats allow for experimental storytelling, and there’s more appreciation for diverse comedic voices. All of these trends favor someone with Bell’s skill set.

Her recent projects show she’s comfortable moving between streaming platforms, theatrical releases, and television. She’s not locked into any one medium or type of role.

Lessons from Jillian Bell’s Career

For aspiring performers, Bell’s career offers several valuable lessons:

Start Early: Her eight-year-old improv classes gave her a foundation that paid off decades later.

Train Properly: The Groundlings wasn’t just a stepping stone—it was essential training that prepared her for professional work.

Be Patient: Bell didn’t become famous overnight. She built her career steadily, taking opportunities as they came.

Diversify: By developing skills as a writer and producer, Bell created multiple income streams and career paths.

Stay Professional: Bell’s reputation for reliability keeps her working consistently.

Take Risks: From playing aggressive characters to leading a dramatic film, Bell hasn’t played it safe.

Why You Should Watch Jillian Bell

If you haven’t paid attention to Jillian Bell’s career, now’s the perfect time to start. Here’s what to watch:

For Comedy: Start with Workaholics or 22 Jump Street to see her fearless comedic performances.

For Drama: Brittany Runs a Marathon showcases her range and emotional depth.

For Voice Work: Check out Bless the Harts to hear her vocal talents.

For Everything: Her recent streaming films on Disney+, Netflix, and Amazon show her current work.

Bell represents the best of modern comedy: smart, versatile, and unafraid to take chances. She makes everything she’s in a little bit better.

The Bottom Line

Jillian Bell has spent nearly two decades building one of the most interesting careers in comedy. From Saturday Night Live writer to leading lady in critically acclaimed films, she’s proven herself as a multi-talented performer who can handle anything thrown at her.

She’s the actress who makes you say, “Oh, she’s in this? It’s probably good then.” That kind of reputation takes years to build and is worth its weight in gold in Hollywood.

Whether she’s stealing scenes in ensemble comedies, carrying dramatic films, or voicing animated characters, Jillian Bell brings the same commitment and talent to every project. She’s a comedy powerhouse who deserves more recognition than she gets.

As streaming services and studios search for reliable talent who can deliver across multiple platforms and genres, Jillian Bell’s career is positioned for even greater success. She’s done the work, paid her dues, and proven her worth time and time again.

The next time you’re scrolling through streaming options and see Jillian Bell’s name, hit play. You’re in for a treat from one of comedy’s most underrated talents. From Las Vegas improv classes to Hollywood success, Jillian Bell’s journey proves that talent, training, and tenacity can take you anywhere you want to go.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jillian Bell

How old is Jillian Bell?

Jillian Bell is 40 years old. She was born on April 25, 1984, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Despite being in her 40s, Bell continues to take on diverse roles that showcase her versatility as an actress and comedian.

What is Jillian Bell’s height?

Jillian Bell stands at 5 feet 6 inches tall (1.68 meters). Her average height hasn’t stopped her from delivering larger-than-life performances that make her stand out in every project she takes on.

What is Jillian Bell famous for?

Jillian Bell is most famous for her role as Jillian Belk on the Comedy Central series Workaholics, her scene-stealing performance in 22 Jump Street, and her lead role in Brittany Runs a Marathon. She’s also known for being a writer on Saturday Night Live and for her work in numerous comedy films and television shows.

Was Jillian Bell on Saturday Night Live?

Yes, Jillian Bell was a writer for Saturday Night Live during the show’s 35th season (2009-2010). While she auditioned to be a cast member, she was hired for the writers’ room instead. Her work earned her a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Writing for a Variety Series in 2010.

What movies has Jillian Bell been in?

Jillian Bell has appeared in numerous films including 22 Jump Street (2014), Goosebumps (2015), The Night Before (2015), Fist Fight (2017), Rough Night (2017), Brittany Runs a Marathon (2019), Godmothered (2020), Murder Mystery 2 (2023), and Candy Cane Lane (2023). She’s also worked with acclaimed director Paul Thomas Anderson in The Master and Inherent Vice.

Is Jillian Bell married?

As of June 2024, Jillian Bell is engaged to Luke McGarry, who is an illustrator and musician. The couple tends to keep their relationship relatively private, away from the Hollywood spotlight.

What character did Jillian Bell play in Workaholics?

Jillian Bell played Jillian Belk, a coworker at the telemarketing company where the main characters worked. Her character was known for being quirky, unpredictable, and sometimes aggressive, becoming a fan favorite throughout the show’s seven-season run.

Did Jillian Bell win any awards for Brittany Runs a Marathon?

While Jillian Bell didn’t win major industry awards like an Oscar or Golden Globe, she received significant recognition for Brittany Runs a Marathon. She won the Fairbanks Award at the San Diego International Film Festival and the Next Wave Award at the Provincetown International Film Festival, both in 2019. The film and her performance received widespread critical acclaim.

What shows has Jillian Bell done voice work for?

Jillian Bell has lent her voice to several animated series including Bless the Harts (as Violet Hart), Bob’s Burgers (multiple characters), Sausage Party: Foodtopia (as Trish), and Tales of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (as Lee the Eel). Her distinctive voice and comedic timing make her a natural fit for animation work.

Where did Jillian Bell go to school?

Jillian Bell attended Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, graduating in 2002. After high school, she moved to Los Angeles and joined The Groundlings, the prestigious improv and sketch comedy theater where many famous comedians have trained. She began studying improv at just eight years old, giving her years of experience before her professional career even started.

What is Jillian Bell doing now?

Jillian Bell remains active in both film and television. Recent projects include Kinda Pregnant (2025), Reunion (2024), and various voice acting roles. She continues to work as an actress, producer, and writer across multiple platforms including theatrical releases, streaming services, and television networks.

Is Jillian Bell related to Kristen Bell?

No, Jillian Bell and Kristen Bell are not related. They simply share the same last name. Both are successful actresses in Hollywood, but they come from different families and backgrounds. Jillian Bell is from Las Vegas, Nevada, while Kristen Bell is from Michigan.

Conclusion: A Comedy Career Worth Celebrating

Jillian Bell’s journey from an eight-year-old improv student in Las Vegas to a multifaceted Hollywood talent is nothing short of inspiring. Over nearly two decades, she’s proven that success in entertainment isn’t just about landing one big break—it’s about consistent excellence, versatility, and the courage to take risks.

What makes Bell’s career particularly remarkable is how she’s avoided being pigeonholed. Many comedic actresses get stuck playing the same type of character over and over. Not Bell. She’s been the quirky coworker, the scene-stealing villain, the dramatic lead, the fairy godmother, and everything in between. This range has kept her career fresh and unpredictable.

Her work ethic deserves special recognition. From writing for one of television’s most demanding shows (Saturday Night Live) to carrying an entire film on her shoulders (Brittany Runs a Marathon), Bell has consistently shown up and delivered. Directors know that when they cast Jillian Bell, they’re getting a professional who will elevate the material.

The comedy world can be brutally competitive, especially for women. Bell has navigated this landscape with grace and determination, building a career on talent rather than controversy or gimmicks. She’s let her work speak for itself, and the work has been consistently strong.

Looking ahead, Bell’s career trajectory suggests even bigger opportunities on the horizon. She’s built the kind of resume that opens doors—writing credits, producing experience, dramatic chops, and proven box office appeal. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve with streaming platforms hungry for content, performers like Bell who can do it all become even more valuable.

For fans of comedy, Jillian Bell represents the best of what the genre can offer. She’s smart without being pretentious, funny without relying on cheap laughs, and relatable while playing characters nothing like herself. She makes us laugh, think, and occasionally cry—sometimes all in the same performance.

If you’re discovering Jillian Bell for the first time through this article, you’re in for a treat. Dive into her filmography starting with your preferred genre—whether that’s straight comedy, heartfelt drama, or family-friendly entertainment. You’ll quickly understand why industry insiders have valued her work for years.

For those already familiar with Bell’s work, keep watching. Her best performances may still be ahead of her. As she continues to take on producing roles and shape projects from the ground up, we’re likely to see even more of her creative vision come to life.

Jillian Bell has earned her place in Hollywood through talent, training, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. She’s the kind of performer who makes the industry better just by being in it. From Las Vegas to Los Angeles, from the writers’ room to center stage, Bell has crafted a career that’s uniquely her own.

In an industry that often celebrates overnight success stories, Jillian Bell’s steady climb to prominence offers a different kind of inspiration. She proves that with the right foundation, consistent effort, and genuine talent, you can build a lasting career on your own terms.

So the next time you see Jillian Bell’s name in the credits, pay attention. Whether she’s on screen for two minutes or two hours, you’re watching one of comedy’s most reliable and talented performers at work. And that’s always worth your time.