Jon Barinholtz: Family and Philanthropy Shaped His Comedy

Key Facts

Early Life and Roots in Chicago

Born into a close-knit Chicago Jewish family, Jon Barinholtz was raised with comedy and academic rigor. Jon and his older brother Ike learned humility, hard work, and humor as a shield and sword from their mother, Peggy Barinholtz. The Latin School of Chicago revealed Jon’s performance talent after the brothers attended Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School. Family dinners often became impromptu comic routines, launching Jon’s career.

Breakthrough on Television

Jon Barinholtz’s first major break came with the role of Marcus White on NBC’s Superstore. Debuting in 2015, the series provided Jon with a platform to showcase his gift for deadpan delivery and nuanced physical comedy. Over six seasons, Marcus evolved from background ensemble to a fan-favorite, navigating workplace absurdities with a signature blend of sincerity and sarcasm. This success led directly to his casting as Wesley Payne on American Auto in 2021, where he further honed his ability to balance sharp wit with heartfelt vulnerability.

Expanding to Film and Production

Beyond sitcoms, Jon has demonstrated versatility in film. He appeared in Dumb and Dumber To (2014), delivering comic relief amidst the slapstick mayhem, and in Marvel’s Agent Carter one-shot (2013), showcasing his range in genre work. Off-screen, Jon has taken on producing roles, developing pilots and shorts that spotlight emerging comedic voices. His behind-the-camera efforts reflect a commitment to cultivating new talent, much as his mother Peggy cultivated his own.

Peggy Barinholtz: Matriarch and Mentor

Peggy Barinholtz’s influence cannot be overstated. As a schoolteacher turned full-time mother, she prioritized creative expression and academic excellence in equal measure. Family lore credits Peggy with scripting early comedy routines for Ike and Jon, insisting they rehearse timing and character depth at the dinner table. In 2024, when Jon and Ike won $1 million on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, it was Peggy who reminded them, “Don’t embarrass the family”—a humorous testament to her blend of high standards and warm support.

Philanthropy and Personal Commitments

Jon’s personal life shapes his philanthropy. Married with two children, including a deaf one, he and his brother donated their $1 million game-show winnings to start an American Sign Language program at their nephew Dezi’s school. This gift honours Peggy’s lifelong commitment to education and inclusion and the family’s accessibility. Jon attends Los Angeles ASL awareness events and organizes workshops for deaf and hard-of-hearing parents.

Continuing Legacy and Future Projects

Building on his growing résumé, Jon Barinholtz is developing a new workplace comedy pilot that draws on his experiences at Superstore and American Auto. Executive-produced by his brother Ike, the project promises sharp satire and heartfelt storytelling, hallmarks of the Barinholtz style. Meanwhile, Peggy Barinholtz remains active behind the scenes, offering script notes and life lessons whenever the Barinholtz clan convenes for creative workshops.

FAQ

Who is Peggy Barinholtz?

Jon and Ike Barinholtz’s mother, retired schoolteacher Peggy Barinholtz, helped them become comedians.

Which Jon Barinholtz roles are most famous?

He is best known for playing Marcus White on Superstore and Wesley Payne on American Auto.

Jon Barinholtz began acting professionally when?

Jon’s on-screen career took off in the early 2010s, with notable appearances in Marvel One-Shot: Agent Carter (2013) and Dumb and Dumber To (2014).

What inspired Jon’s philanthropic work?

Having a deaf child led Jon and his family to support an ASL program at their nephew’s school with game-show winnings.

Is Jon related to Ike Barinholtz?

Jon’s older brother, Ike Barinholtz, has worked with him on and off-screen.