Early Life and Education of Leslie Jordan: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 21, 2025

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Leslie Jordan. A timeline of key moments.

Leslie Jordan was a versatile American entertainer known for his roles in television, film, and stage productions. He gained widespread recognition for his comedic timing and memorable performances in shows like Will & Grace and American Horror Story. Jordan's career spanned decades, with notable appearances in Hearts Afire, The Cool Kids, and Call Me Kat. He also reprised his role as Earl "Brother Boy" Ingram in both the play and film versions of Sordid Lives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he achieved viral fame on Instagram, captivating millions with his humor and personality, and published his autobiography in 2021.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1935: Peggy Ann Griffin's Birth

In 1935, Peggy Ann Griffin, who would become Leslie Jordan's mother, was born.

April 29, 1955: Leslie Jordan's Birth

On April 29, 1955, Leslie Allen Jordan was born. He later became an actor, comedian, writer, and singer.

1955: Leslie Jordan's birth

Leslie Jordan was born in 1955, and grew up in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

March 31, 1967: Father's Death

On March 31, 1967, Leslie Jordan's father, Allen Bernard Jordan, died in a plane crash at Camp Shelby when Leslie was almost 12 years old.

1982: Move to Los Angeles

In 1982, Leslie Jordan moved to Los Angeles, where he became involved with drugs and alcohol and was arrested several times.

2010: Sobriety Announcement

In 2010, Leslie Jordan announced that he had been sober for 13 years during an appearance on Wendy Williams' talk show.

August 18, 2014: Celebrity Big Brother

On August 18, 2014, Leslie Jordan became a housemate in the fourteenth season of the British reality game show Celebrity Big Brother.

August 29, 2014: Left Big Brother House

On August 29, 2014, Leslie Jordan was the second person to leave the Big Brother house.

2014: Interview about growing up Southern Baptist

In a 2014 interview, Leslie Jordan spoke about the difficulties he experienced growing up Southern Baptist.

2020: Will & Grace Role

In 2020, Leslie Jordan ended his recurring role as Beverley Leslie on the television show "Will & Grace". In the same year, he became an Instagram contributor, amassing 5.8 million followers.