Jenny Slate is an American actress, comedian, and author best known for her roles in Obvious Child, Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, and Parks and Recreation. Born in 1982, she has become one of the most distinctive voices in comedy and independent film, admired for her wit, creativity, and authenticity. Standing at 5’4” (163 cm), Slate has built a career that blends stand‑up comedy, television, film, and voice acting. As of 2026, her estimated net worth is $6 million, reflecting her contributions to acting, writing, and producing.
Jenny Slate – Summary Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jenny Sarah Slate |
| Date of Birth | March 25, 1982 |
| Age (2026) | 44 years |
| Birthplace | Milton, Massachusetts, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5′4″ (1.63 m) |
| Occupations | Actress, Comedian, Author, Voice Actress |
| Years Active | 2005 – present |
| Education | Columbia University (BA in Literature) |
| Career Highlights | Cast member on Saturday Night Live (2009–2010); breakthrough voice role as Marcel in Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (2010, feature film in 2021); starred in Obvious Child (2014); appeared in Gifted (2017), Venom (2018); voice roles in Zootopia (2016), The Secret Life of Pets (2016–2019), Bob’s Burgers (2012–2020); Netflix comedy special Stage Fright (2019) |
| Notable Coverage | Known for indie film performances, comedy, and distinctive voice work |
| Awards/Recognition | Critics’ Choice Award nomination (Obvious Child); Annie Award nomination (Zootopia) |
| Family | Married to artist Ben Shattuck (2020–present); one daughter |
| Net Worth (est.) | $5–6 million (approx.) |
| Current Status | Active in film, voice acting, writing, and comedy; continues to balance indie projects with mainstream roles |
Early Life and Family Background
- Full Name: Jenny Sarah Slate
- Date of Birth: March 25, 1982
- Place of Birth: Milton, Massachusetts, USA
- Height: 5’4” (163 cm)
- Nationality: American
Slate grew up in Massachusetts in a creative household. She attended Columbia University, where she co‑founded the comedy duo Gabe & Jenny.
Career Beginnings
- Started her career in stand‑up comedy and sketch performances.
- Gained recognition with appearances on Saturday Night Live (2009–2010).
- Built her reputation as a promising comedian with sharp wit and originality.
Rise to Prominence
- Co‑created Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (2010), which became a viral sensation.
- Appeared in Parks and Recreation (2013–2014) as Mona‑Lisa Saperstein.
- Established herself as a versatile actress capable of both comedy and drama.
Breakthrough Success
- Starred in Obvious Child (2014), earning critical acclaim for her performance.
- The film showcased her ability to balance humor with emotional depth.
- Became a household name through her performances in high‑profile projects.
Continued Career Evolution
- Appeared in films such as Gifted (2017), Venom (2018), and Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022).
- Voiced characters in animated films including Zootopia (2016) and The Secret Life of Pets (2016).
- Released Marcel the Shell with Shoes On (2022) as a feature film, earning an Academy Award nomination.
- Continues to act, write, and produce creative projects in 2026.
Awards and Recognition
- Critics’ Choice Award nomination for Obvious Child.
- Annie Award nomination for Marcel the Shell with Shoes On.
- Praised for her contributions to independent cinema and voice acting.
Personal Life
- Jenny Slate married artist Ben Shattuck in 2021.
- They have one daughter together.
- Known for her advocacy for women’s rights, creative independence, and authenticity.
- Balances her career with family life and personal growth.
Net Worth (2026)
| Source of Income | Estimated Contribution |
|---|---|
| Acting Career | $4 million |
| Writing & Producing | $1 million |
| Voice Acting | $1 million |
| Total Net Worth (2026) | ≈ $6 million |
Legacy and Influence
Jenny Sarah Slate’s legacy lies in her ability to reinvent herself from stand‑up comedian to respected actress, writer, and voice artist. She represents a generation of performers who balance mainstream success with independent credibility. Her influence extends beyond entertainment, shaping conversations in representation, creative ownership, and modern comedy.
Conclusion
From Massachusetts beginnings to Hollywood acclaim, Jenny Slate’s biography reflects a journey of resilience, artistry, and influence. Her work across stand‑up, television, film, and voice acting demonstrates her versatility and vision. In 2026, she continues to inspire audiences with her authenticity, professionalism, and leadership.
FAQ
1. Who is Jenny Slate?
Jenny Slate is an American actress, comedian, writer, and voice artist. She is best known for her roles in films such as Obvious Child, Gifted, and for voicing characters in popular animated movies.
2. How old is Jenny Slate?
Jenny Slate was born on March 25, 1982, making her 44 years old as of 2026.
3. What is Jenny Slate famous for?
Jenny Sarah Slate is famous for her work as a comedian, actress, and voice performer. She gained early recognition as a cast member on Saturday Night Live and later earned critical acclaim for her leading role in Obvious Child.
4. What is Jenny Slate’s height?
Jenny Slate is approximately 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 meters) tall.
5. What is Jenny Slate’s net worth?
Jenny Slate’s estimated net worth is around $6 million, earned through acting, comedy, voice acting, writing, and television appearances.
6. Is Jenny Slate married?
Yes. Jenny Slate is married to Ben Shattuck. The couple married in 2021 after becoming engaged in 2019.
7. Does Jenny Slate have children?
Yes, Jenny Slate has one daughter, whom she welcomed with her husband Ben Shattuck in 2021.
8. What movies has Jenny Slate appeared in?
Jenny Sarah Slate has appeared in several popular films, including Obvious Child, Gifted, Everything Everywhere All at Once, and It Ends with Us.
9. Which animated characters has Jenny Slate voiced?
Jenny Slate has voiced several beloved animated characters, including Bellwether in Zootopia, Dawn Bellwether, and Gidget in The Secret Life of Pets and its sequel.
10. Did Jenny Slate leave Saturday Night Live?
Yes. Jenny Sarah Slate appeared on Saturday Night Live during the 2009–2010 season. She left the show after one season and later established a successful career in film, television, and voice acting.
11. Has Jenny Slate written any books?
Yes. Jenny Slate is the author of Little Weirds, a bestselling collection of personal essays, stories, and reflections praised for its humor and honesty.
12. What is Jenny Slate doing now?
Jenny Slate continues to work in film, television, voice acting, and writing. She regularly appears in new movie and television projects while balancing her career with family life and creative pursuits.
