Aziz Ansari

Aziz Ismail Ansari (born February 23, 1983) is an American actor, comedian, writer, director, and author whose career has spanned a remarkable range of media, from stand‑up comedy stages to acclaimed television series and feature films. Raised in Columbia, South Carolina by Tamil‑Muslim immigrant parents, Ansari cultivated his comedic voice while studying marketing at New York University’s Stern School of Business, where he began performing at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. After gaining early recognition in the mid‑2000s—including Rolling Stone’s “Hot List” and a Jury Award at HBO’s Comedy Arts Festival—he co‑created the sketch series Human Giant for MTV, a breakthrough that led to his breakout role as Tom Haverford on NBC’s Parks and Recreation (2009‑2015). His sharp observational humor, often infused with cultural commentary about Indian heritage, everyday life, and modern romance, earned him critical praise and a devoted fanbase. In 2015, alongside Alan Yang, he co‑created the Netflix series Master of None, starring as Dev Shah, which garnered multiple Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe, and a Peabody, marking the first time an Asian‑American actor won a Golden Globe for television acting. He has also authored the bestselling book Modern Romance: An Investigation (2015) and released several acclaimed stand‑up specials, including Aziz Ansari: Right Now (2019) and Nightclub Comedian (2022).* Beyond his on‑screen achievements, Ansari’s personal journey has included high‑profile public discussions about consent and feminism, a brief hiatus following media scrutiny, and a celebrated marriage to forensic data scientist Serena Skov Campbell in 2022. He continues to expand his creative portfolio, directing projects such as Being Mortal and collaborating with industry peers on new film ventures, solidifying his status as a versatile and influential figure in contemporary entertainment.