History of Jay Pharoah in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 13, 2025

Jay Pharoah, born Jared Antonio Farrow, is an American stand-up comedian and actor best known for his tenure on Saturday Night Live (SNL) from 2010 to 2016. His impressions and comedic timing made him a popular cast member. Rolling Stone magazine ranked him as the 55th greatest SNL cast member in 2015, highlighting his impact on the show and comedy in general.

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Full Timeline

October 14, 1987: Jay Pharoah's Birth

On October 14, 1987, Jared Antonio Farrow, known professionally as Jay Pharoah, was born.

Others born on this day/year

2005: High School Graduation

In 2005, Jay Pharoah graduated from Indian River High School in Chesapeake. One of his characters, Principal Daniel Frye, is heavily influenced by IRHS's former principal, James Frye.

September 25, 2010: Saturday Night Live Debut

On September 25, 2010, Jay Pharoah debuted on Saturday Night Live as a featured performer for the show's 36th season. Rob Moynihan of TV Guide regarded him as the "breakout player" for the season.

August 8, 2016: Departure from Saturday Night Live

On August 8, 2016, it was announced that Jay Pharoah, along with Taran Killam, would be exiting Saturday Night Live ahead of its 42nd season.

June 2020: Detainment by Police

In June 2020, Jay Pharoah released footage showing that he had been detained at gunpoint by the Los Angeles Police Department several months earlier in his neighborhood, after matching the description of a wanted black man. Officers apologized and released him after confirming his identity online. This happened in June 2020 in response to the George Floyd Protests.