Jon Heder Biography

Jon Heder broke an ankle filming a skating scene in Blades of Glory.

Courtesy of Dreamworks Pictures

Birthdate: October 26, 1977
Birthplace: Fort Collins, Colorado

He won our hearts in Napoleon Dynamite, made us giggle in School for Scoundrels, appeared in Monster House and now is taking to the ice in Blades of Glory. But Jon Heder is not your average movie star - and he hasn't led an average life!

Jon Heder - Early Life

Jon Heder was born in Colorado to a family of six kids, including a twin brother, Daniel. His family soon headed to Oregon, where Jon was active in the Mormon Church. Jon went on a religious mission to Japan for two years after high school where he learned to speak fluent Japanese. After returning home, Jon went to Brigham Young University where he studied animation. There he met someone who would change his life forever - Jared Hess.

Jon Heder - What Are You Going to Do Today, Napoleon?

Jared Hess approached Jon Heder about acting in a short film he was making called Peluca, which was the basis for the feature-length film Napoleon Dynamite. The surprise success of Napoleon Dynamite launched Jon Heder's acting career.

Jon Heder - Whatever I Want to Do, Gosh!

After the success of Napoleon Dynamite, Jon Heder then went on to star in the romantic comedy Just Like Heaven with Reese Witherspoon, The Benchwarmers with Rob Schneider and David Spade and School for Scoundrels with Ben Stiller and Billy Bob Thornton. He also played the voice of Skull in the animated flick Monster House and stars opposite Will Ferrell in Blades of Glory. Despite his hectic filming schedule (he has four films due out in 2007 alone), Jon has made time to marry his college sweetheart, Kirsten, and the two are currently expecting their first baby!