Early Life and Rise to Fame
Drew Carey faced a challenging childhood, losing his father to a brain tumor at age 8 and enduring sexual abuse, which led to depression and two suicide attempts before 25. He dropped out of Kent State University after expulsions and enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve in 1980, serving six years as a field radio operator. This period shaped his signature look and instilled discipline.
Transitioning to comedy, Carey won an open mic contest and became MC at the Cleveland Comedy Club. His 1988 Star Search appearance and 1991 Tonight Show debut with Johnny Carson launched him nationally. These milestones paved the way for his acting breakouts in the early 1990s.
His memoir Dirty Jokes and Beer, a New York Times bestseller, candidly shared his unrefined stories, resonating with fans and boosting his bad-boy image.
Breakthrough TV Shows
The Drew Carey Show premiered in 1995 on ABC, portraying Carey as a hapless Cleveland bachelor navigating work and friends. Running nine seasons with 233 episodes, it drew high ratings early on despite censorship frustrations. Carey earned up to $750,000 per episode by the end.
Simultaneously, he hosted Whose Line Is It Anyway?, the U.S. improv comedy version, and produced Drew Carey's Improv All-Stars. These hits showcased his quick wit, leading to voice roles like in Robots (2005). In 2023, he featured in ABC's The Game Show Show documentary.
Reflecting on the sitcom's 30th anniversary, Carey shared what he misses most, underscoring its lasting cultural impact in 2025 discussions.
Current Role and Personal Insights
Since July 2007, Drew Carey has hosted The Price Is Right on CBS, succeeding Bob Barker and maintaining its legacy with his engaging style. The show remains a daytime TV powerhouse, with Carey balancing hosting and production.
Personally, Carey proposed to Nicole Jaracz in 2007, ending in 2012, and briefly to Amie Harwick in 2018; Harwick's tragic 2020 murder by her ex devastated him. A practicing Buddhist and libertarian, he advocates for gun rights and medical marijuana.
In 2025, Carey's global appeal persists through streaming revivals of his shows, inspiring new generations with his authentic journey from hardship to Hollywood success.