Joe Keery Biography: Actor, Musician & Djo Frontman, Net Worth

Joe Keery: Actor, Musician & Stranger Things Star Biography

Joseph David Keery is an American actor and musician, best known for his role as Steve Harrington in the Netflix science-fiction horror series Stranger Things (2016–present).

He performs music under the moniker Djo, previously releasing tracks as “Cool Cool Cool.”  Additionally, he’s drawn to both storytelling and sonic creativity, splitting time between scripts and songwriting.

Early Life and Education

Keery was born in Newburyport, Massachusetts, and is the second of five children.

He attended River Valley Charter School and Newburyport High School, where he began acting at his older sister’s suggestion.

His early passion for performing arts led him to participate in Theater in the Open, a performing arts camp.

He went on to study at The Theatre School at DePaul University in Chicago, graduating in 2014 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting.

Acting Career:

Before his breakthrough role, Keery appeared in various commercials and had minor roles in television shows like Empire and Chicago Fire.

His first full-length film appearance was in Stephen Cone’s indie film, Henry Gamble’s Birthday Party (2015).

His career took off in 2016 when he was cast as Steve Harrington in Stranger Things.

Initially auditioning for the role of Jonathan, he later sent in an audition tape for Steve, which ultimately landed him the part.

Steve Harrington’s character, initially a recurring role, became a main character from the second season onwards, garnering significant popularity among fans.

Beyond Stranger Things, Keery has starred in several films, including the satirical film Spree (2020), the action-comedy Free Guy (2021), and Molly’s Game (2017).

He also had a main role in the fifth season of the crime drama series Fargo (2023-2024). Upcoming projects include the films Cold Storage and Marmalade.

Music Career:

In addition to his acting, Keery is an accomplished musician. He initially released music under the name “Cool Cool Cool” in his early twenties.

He was a guitarist and drummer for the Chicago-based psychedelic rock band Post Animal. The band released their debut album in 2015, and Keery contributed to their sophomore album, “When I Think Of You In A Castle,” in 2018.

In 2019, Keery departed from Post Animal to focus on his solo music career, releasing music under the pseudonym Djo (pronounced “Joe”).

His debut album, Twenty Twenty, was released in September 2019. This was followed by his second studio album, DECIDE, in September 2022, which showcased a shift towards a synth-pop, synthwave, and alt-pop sound.

His latest album, The Crux, was released in April 2025. His song “End of Beginning” gained significant popularity in 2024, reaching high positions on various charts, including the Billboard Hot 100.

Parents and Siblings

Joe Keery was born and raised in the coastal town of Newburyport, Massachusetts.

He grew up in a warm, intellectually curious household as the second of five children—and the only boy—surrounded by four sisters.

His childhood was filled with creativity, outdoor adventures, and early experiments in performance, often making home videos and acting out skits with his siblings.

Joe attended River Valley Charter School, a Montessori-based institution, before moving on to Newburyport High School.

It was during these formative years that he began exploring acting more seriously, inspired in part by one of his older sisters who was involved in theater.

His father, Thomas R. Keery II (also referred to as David Keery in some sources), is an architect and businessman who once served as president of Frost Motors and was honored with Time Magazine’s Quality Dealer Award.

His mother, Laura Keery (sometimes cited as Nina Keery), is an English professor known for her sharp wit—she once jokingly referred to Joe’s Stranger Things character as a “total jerk,” a comment that Joe has shared with amusement in interviews.

Joe’s four sisters each pursued their own paths. His eldest sister, Caroline Keery-Whitmore, is a teacher at Crocker Farm Elementary School and is married to Alex Whitmore.

Elizabeth “Lizzy” Keery became an English teacher in Spain through the Meddeas program. The youngest siblings, Emma and Kate Keery, are twins born in 1998.

Emma studied at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, while Kate focused on natural resources conservation.

Career

Acting

After many auditions and minor gigs (commercials for KFC and Domino’s, guest spots on Chicago Fire and Empire), he debuted in the indie film Henry Gamble’s Birthday Party.

Cast as Steve Harrington in Stranger Things (2016), a role that evolved from bully to beloved protector; became a series regular in Season 2.

Film and TV credits include Molly’s Game (2017), Free Guy (2021), Spree (2020), and Fargo Season 5 (2023–24).

Early Career and Breakthrough

Joe Keery began his acting career after graduating from DePaul University’s Theatre School in 2014. Like many aspiring actors, he started with small roles and commercial work.

He appeared in ads for KFC, Domino’s, and Amiibo, and landed minor roles in TV shows like Empire and Chicago Fire.

His film debut came in 2015 with the indie drama Henry Gamble’s Birthday Party, directed by Stephen Cone.

Stranger Things (2016–2025)

Keery’s breakout role came when he was cast as Steve Harrington in Netflix’s Stranger Things.

Interestingly, he initially auditioned for the role of Jonathan Byers but later submitted a tape for Steve—a character who was originally written as a stereotypical high school jock.

• Season 1 (2016): Introduced as a supporting character

• Season 2 onward: Promoted to series regular due to his popularity and the character’s unexpected depth

• Steve evolved into a fan-favorite “babysitter” figure, known for his protective instincts and unlikely friendship with Dustin Henderson

This role catapulted Keery into international fame and earned him and the cast a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series.

Film and TV Roles Beyond Stranger Things

Joe Keery has steadily expanded his acting portfolio with diverse roles:

• Spree (2020): Played Kurt Kunkle, a rideshare driver obsessed with livestreaming fame in this satirical horror-thriller

• Free Guy (2021): Portrayed Walter “Keys” McKey, a game developer, alongside Ryan Reynolds in this action-comedy blockbuster

• Fargo (Season 5, 2023–2024): Took on the role of Gator Tillman, a morally conflicted character in the acclaimed anthology crime series

• Cold Storage (2025): Set to appear as Travis “Teacake” Meacham in this sci-fi action film opposite Liam Neeson

Acting Style and Reputation

• Known for his versatility, Keery has transitioned from comedic and charming roles to darker, more complex characters

• Praised for his natural charisma, comedic timing, and ability to bring emotional depth to unconventional roles

• His portrayal of Steve Harrington is often cited as one of the most compelling character arcs in modern television

Joe Keery’s Music Career as Djo

Joe Keery, performing under the moniker Djo (pronounced “Joe”), has carved out a distinct music career alongside his acting, showcasing his talents as a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist.

His music blends psychedelic pop, indie rock, and synth-driven sounds, often drawing comparisons to artists like Tame Impala, Ariel Pink, and MGMT.

Below is a detailed exploration of his musical journey, from his early days with Post Animal to his solo work as Djo, including key releases, achievements, and stylistic evolution.

Early Musical Roots with Post Animal

Keery’s music career began in Chicago, where he was a guitarist and drummer for the psychedelic rock band Post Animal, formed around 2014.

He contributed to their early work, including their debut album in October 2015, credited as “Cool Cool Cool.”

Keery played guitar and provided vocals for their second album, When I Think of You in a Castle (2018), which featured a psych-rock sound with intricate instrumentation.

Tracks like “Gelatin Mode” showcased his guitar work. Despite his contributions, Keery left Post Animal in 2019 due to scheduling conflicts with his acting commitments, particularly Stranger Things.

He described the decision as amicable, noting the band’s continued success post-departure.

Transition to Solo Career as Djo

After leaving Post Animal, Keery launched his solo project under the name Djo, a playful nod to his first name and a way to distinguish his music from his acting persona.

He adopted a DIY approach, writing, performing, and producing most of his music himself, often in home studios.

His sound as Djo leans into psychedelic pop with lush synths, groovy basslines, and introspective lyrics, reflecting influences from 1970s and 1980s music, as well as modern psych-pop.

Debut Album: Twenty Twenty (2019)

Keery released his first solo album, Twenty Twenty, on September 13, 2019, under AWAL Recordings.

The album, recorded in his Chicago apartment, features 12 tracks that blend lo-fi psychedelia, funk, and pop. Standout singles include:

• “Roddy”: A groovy, upbeat track with a catchy melody, released in July 2019. It showcases Keery’s knack for crafting earworm hooks.

• “Chateau (Feel Alright)”: A dreamy, synth-heavy song released in August 2019, praised for its introspective lyrics and retro vibe.

• “Mortal Projections”: A fan favorite, blending psych-pop with a melancholic edge.

NME gave Twenty Twenty a positive review, commending its “unpredictable and inventive” approach, likening it to Ariel Pink’s eclectic style.

The album established Djo as a serious musical artist, separate from Keery’s Stranger Things fame, though it initially flew under the radar commercially.

Breakthrough Album: Decide (2022)

Keery’s second album, Decide, released on September 16, 2022, marked a significant leap in visibility and ambition.

Recorded with producer Adam Thein, the album refined Djo’s sound, incorporating polished production while retaining its psychedelic and synth-pop roots. Key tracks include:

• “End of Beginning”: The album’s standout, this track became a viral hit in early 2024 after gaining traction on TikTok, particularly for its nostalgic lyrics and infectious melody. It peaked at #11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and charted globally, including #4 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s popularity was boosted by fans associating it with Stranger Things and Chicago-related content, leading to over 1 billion streams on Spotify by 2024.

• “Change”: A funky, synth-driven single released in June 2022, showcasing Keery’s vocal range and lyrical depth.

• “Gloom”: A more experimental track with layered production, highlighting his growth as a producer.

Decide received critical acclaim for its cohesive sound and Keery’s ability to blend retro influences with modern sensibilities.

Billboard noted its “genre-bending confidence,” while Pitchfork praised its “polished yet quirky” aesthetic. The album reached #45 on the Billboard 200, a testament to Keery’s growing music fanbase.

Third Album: The Crux (2025)

Djo’s third album, The Crux, was released on April 4, 2025, further cementing Keery’s evolution as a musician.

The album dives deeper into experimental pop, with richer production and introspective themes.

Early singles like “Say Goodbye” and “Glow” teased a bolder sound, blending psych-rock with electronic elements.

Critics have called The Crux Keery’s most ambitious work yet, with Rolling Stone noting its “cinematic scope and emotional depth.”

Musical Style and Influences

Djo’s music is characterized by:

• Psychedelic Pop and Synth-Pop: Heavy use of synthesizers, reverb-drenched guitars, and layered vocals create a dreamy, retro-futuristic sound.

• Lyrical Themes: Keery explores introspection, nostalgia, and personal growth, often with a playful or surreal edge.

• Influences: He cites Tame Impala, David Bowie, and Prince as inspirations, evident in his blend of funk, rock, and electronic textures.

Keery’s hands-on approach—playing guitar, drums, and keyboards, and producing his own tracks—gives his music an authentic, personal feel.

He often uses a 1967 Gretsch Corvette guitar and American Stratocasters, reflecting his preference for vintage instruments.

Achievements and Impact

• “End of Beginning” Success: The song’s 2024 viral resurgence made Keery one of the few actors to achieve mainstream music success, with over 1 billion streams and a Billboard Hot 100 peak.

• Critical Recognition: Twenty Twenty and Decide earned praise for their originality, establishing Djo as a respected indie artist.

• Live Performances: Keery has performed at festivals like Lollapalooza (2023) as Djo, showcasing his stage presence. His 2024 tour for Decide sold out multiple venues, reflecting his growing fanbase.

• Cross-Media Appeal: Keery’s Stranger Things fame has helped introduce Djo to a broader audience, though he’s worked to separate the two identities, avoiding overt promotion of his music via his acting roles.

Current Status and Future Prospects

As of 2025, Keery continues to balance his music and acting careers. The Crux has solidified his reputation as a versatile artist, and posts on X suggest he’s planning a 2025 tour to support the album.

Fans speculate about potential collaborations with artists like Kevin Parker of Tame Impala, given their shared psych-pop aesthetic, though no confirmed plans exist.

Additionally, Keery’s ability to leverage platforms like TikTok and Spotify has made Djo a streaming-era success story, with “End of Beginning” remaining a cultural touchstone.

Financial Status

Joe Keery’s net worth is estimated between $8 million and $120 million, depending on the source:

Joe Keery’s Net Worth

• Acting: Reportedly earned $250,000 per episode for Stranger Things in later seasons

• Music: Revenue from streaming, touring, and album sales under his solo project Djo

• Endorsements: Collaborations with brands like Louis Vuitton and Ferragamo

• Film Roles: Includes Free Guy, Spree, and Fargo Season 5

Assets and Lifestyle

• Owns a home in Los Angeles valued at over $1.5 million

• Invests in music production and touring equipment

• Known for his fashion-forward style and designer wardrobe

Personal Profile

• Full Name: Joseph David Keery

• Date of Birth: Born April 24, 1992

• Age: 33 years old (as of 2025)

• Zodiac Sign: Taurus ♉

• Ethnicity: White (of Irish and possibly English descent)

• Nationality: American

• Hometown: Newburyport, Massachusetts, USA

• Current Residence: New York City, USA

 Relationship Status

• Marital Status: Unmarried

• Current Status: Single

• Joe Keery was in a long-term relationship with actress Maika Monroe from 2017 to 2022. They met at a party in Los Angeles and made their red carpet debut at the Stranger Things Season 2 premiere.

• In late 2023, he was briefly linked to actress Chase Sui Wonders, though the relationship was never publicly confirmed.

• As of mid-2025, he has not confirmed any new relationship and is reportedly focusing on his music and acting careers.

Physical Description

• Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)

• Weight: Approximately 74 kg (163 lbs)

• Build: Slim and athletic

• Hair Color: Dark brown

• Eye Color: Hazel

• Distinctive Features:

• • Thick, wavy hair (often a signature part of his look)

• • Sharp jawline and expressive eyes

• • Retro-inspired fashion sense

Who sings “End of Beginning” from Stranger Things?

The song “End of Beginning” is performed by Joe Keery under his musical alias Djo.

Although it’s not featured in Stranger Things, it went viral in 2024 and is part of his 2022 album Decide.

The dreamy synth-pop track reflects on his early 20s in Chicago and has become a breakout hit thanks to TikTok.

How much does it cost to hire Joe Keery?

Hiring Joe Keery for a private event or appearance typically costs between $30,000 and $45,000, depending on the nature and scale of the event.

For keynote speaking engagements, his fee can range from $50,000 to $100,000. These rates may vary based on location, duration, and event type.

Why is he called Djo?

Joe Keery chose the stage name Djo (pronounced “Joe”) to separate his music identity from his acting career, particularly his role in Stranger Things.

He wanted listeners to experience his music without preconceived notions.

The name was inspired partly by jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt, and he picked the spelling “Djo” as a quirky, last-minute decision while uploading his first album.

How old is Steve in Stranger Things?

Steve Harrington, Joe Keery’s character in Stranger Things, is:

• 16–17 years old in Season 1 (1983)

• 17–18 in Season 2 (1984)

• 18–19 in Seasons 3 and 4 (1985–1986)

By the final season (set in 1987), Steve would be around 20 years old.

Joe Keery is active on social media, though his presence leans more toward professional promotion than personal sharing:

• Instagram (Actor): @joe.keery – limited use, mostly promotional.

• Instagram (Music/Djo): @djotime – active for music releases and tours.