Career Timeline of Ben Stiller: Major Achievements and Milestones

How Ben Stiller built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Ben Stiller is an acclaimed American actor, comedian, and filmmaker. Gaining prominence through a mix of slapstick and intelligent humor, he starred in successful comedies like *There’s Something About Mary*, *Zoolander*, and *Tropic Thunder*. He’s also recognized for his roles in popular franchises including *Meet the Parents*, *Madagascar*, and *Night at the Museum*. His films have collectively grossed over $2.6 billion domestically, averaging $79 million per film. Stiller's achievements have been acknowledged with awards such as an Emmy, a Directors Guild of America Award, and a Britannia Award.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1987: Tropic Thunder Premise

In 1987, Ben Stiller conceived the original premise for the film Tropic Thunder while filming Empire of the Sun.

1996: Release of Happy Gilmore

In 1996, the movie Happy Gilmore was released, setting the stage for Ben Stiller's future involvement in the sequel.

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2001: Who Wants to Be a Millionaire Appearance

In 2001, Ben Stiller appeared on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, winning $32,000 for Project ALS.

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2004: Support for John Kerry's Presidential Campaign

In 2004, Ben Stiller supported the Democratic Party and donated money to John Kerry's U.S. presidential campaign.

February 2007: Attendance at Obama Fundraiser

In February 2007, Ben Stiller attended a fundraiser for Barack Obama.

2008: Tropic Thunder Release

In 2008, Ben Stiller directed, co-wrote, co-produced, and starred in the film Tropic Thunder, alongside Robert Downey Jr. and Jack Black.

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2008: Donations to Presidential Campaigns

In 2008, Ben Stiller donated to the U.S. presidential campaigns of Barack Obama, John Edwards, and Hillary Clinton.

2009: Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian

In 2009, Ben Stiller starred with Amy Adams in Night at the Museum 2: Battle of the Smithsonian, the sequel to Night at the Museum.

2010: Various Film Roles and Production

In 2010, Ben Stiller made a cameo in I'm Still Here, played the lead in Greenberg, and reprised his role in Little Fockers. He also stepped down as the voice of Megamind, remaining as executive producer and voicing a minor character.

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2011: Starring in Tower Heist

In 2011, Ben Stiller starred alongside Eddie Murphy and Alan Alda in Tower Heist.

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2013: Release of The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

In 2013, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, produced, directed by and starring Ben Stiller, was released.

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July 2, 2018: UNHCR Goodwill Ambassador Appointment

On July 2, 2018, Ben Stiller was appointed Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR.

2018: Saturday Night Live Role

In 2018, Ben Stiller began playing Michael Cohen on Saturday Night Live.

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2019: Continued SNL Appearances

In 2019, Ben Stiller continued his role as Michael Cohen on Saturday Night Live, totaling 6 episodes.

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June 2022: Visit to Ukraine and Meeting with Zelenskyy

In June 2022, Ben Stiller visited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv and visited other Ukrainian cities to bring attention to humanitarian needs. Russia later sanctioned Stiller for his support.

December 2024: Appearance in SZA's Music Video

In December 2024, Ben Stiller was featured in the music video trailer for SZA's new album Lana, singing her song Drive.

2024: Support for Kamala Harris

In 2024, Ben Stiller supported vice president Kamala Harris in the election.

2024: Acting Comeback with Holiday Films

In 2024, after seven years, Ben Stiller made his acting comeback with the holiday films Nutcrackers and Dear Santa, also appearing on Hot Ones to promote these films.

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