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 a prominent American actor, comedian, and filmmaker recognized for his comedic performances, particularly in films like There's Something About Mary, Zoolander, and Tropic Thunder. He has also starred in successful franchises, including Meet the Parents, Madagascar, and Night at the Museum. Stiller's films have grossed over $2.6 billion domestically, averaging $79 million per film. His accolades include an Emmy Award and a Directors Guild of America Award, among others.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1987: Conceived the premise for Tropic Thunder

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

1996: Release of Happy Gilmore

The movie Happy Gilmore, in which Ben Stiller appeared, was released in 1996.

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2001: Appeared on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire

In 2001, Ben Stiller appeared as a celebrity contestant on the game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. He won $32,000 for Project ALS.

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2008: Directed, co-wrote, co-produced, and starred in Tropic Thunder

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

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

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2010: Cameo in I'm Still Here and starred in Greenberg and Little Fockers

In 2010, Ben Stiller made a cameo in Joaquin Phoenix's mockumentary I'm Still Here and played the lead role in the comedy-drama Greenberg. He also portrayed Greg Focker in Little Fockers.

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2011: Starred in Tower Heist

In 2011, Ben Stiller starred alongside Eddie Murphy and Alan Alda in Tower Heist, a movie about maintenance workers planning a heist in a skyscraper.

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2013: Released The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

In 2013, Ben Stiller produced, directed, and starred in the movie The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, which was released that year.

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July 2, 2018: Appointed Goodwill Ambassador for UNHCR

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

2018: Played Michael Cohen on Saturday Night Live

In 2018, Ben Stiller played Michael Cohen on Saturday Night Live for 6 episodes.

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2019: Played Michael Cohen on Saturday Night Live

In 2019, Ben Stiller continued to play Michael Cohen on Saturday Night Live for 6 episodes.

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June 2022: Visited Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv

In June 2022, Ben Stiller visited Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, Ukraine and expressed his admiration for him. He also visited other cities to bring attention to humanitarian needs. Russia sanctioned Ben Stiller over his Ukraine support.

December 2024: Featured in SZA's music video trailer

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

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2024: Made acting comeback with Nutcrackers and Dear Santa

In 2024, Ben Stiller made his acting comeback after seven years with the holiday films Nutcrackers and Dear Santa, the latter also featuring Jack Black and having him in an uncredited role. While promoting the films Stiller appeared on the popular interview show Hot Ones.

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