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Chris Pratt has emerged as one of Hollywood’s most popular and bankable stars, transitioning from his early comedic roles to becoming an action hero in some of the biggest movie franchises. Known for his versatility, charm, and everyman appeal, Pratt has successfully built a career in both comedy and action films, with a growing influence in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Education
Christopher Michael Pratt was born on June 21, 1979, in Virginia, Minnesota. He grew up in Lake Stevens, Washington, the youngest of three siblings. His mother, Kathy, worked at a Safeway supermarket, and his father, Dan Pratt, was a home remodeler who later worked in mining.
Pratt briefly attended a community college before dropping out and taking various odd jobs, including selling coupons and working as a stripper. During this time, he also experienced homelessness, living in a van in Maui, Hawaii, before fate intervened. While waiting tables at a Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant, he was discovered by actress and director Rae Dawn Chong, who cast him in her short horror film Cursed Part 3 (2000), marking the start of his acting career.
Career Highlights
Chris Pratt’s early career was shaped by television. He gained recognition in the mid-2000s for his role as the lovable but dim-witted Andy Dwyer on NBC’s hit comedy Parks and Recreation (2009–2015). Originally a guest role, Andy became so popular that Pratt was made a series regular, and his improvisational skills helped turn the character into a fan favorite.
While Pratt was known for his comedic roles, his physical transformation and subsequent casting in action-packed blockbusters defined his transition into a leading man. His breakthrough role came in 2014 when he starred as Peter Quill, aka Star-Lord, in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy. The film’s success catapulted him into global stardom, showcasing his unique blend of humor, charisma, and action-hero persona.
Pratt further solidified his position as a Hollywood A-lister with his starring role as Owen Grady in Jurassic World (2015), a reboot of the classic Jurassic Park series. The film was a massive box-office success, and Pratt reprised the role in sequels Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018) and Jurassic World Dominion (2022).
In addition to his role in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, Pratt’s Star-Lord became a key character in the Avengers films, including Avengers: Infinity War (2018) and Avengers: Endgame (2019).
Net Worth
As of 2024, Chris Pratt’s net worth is estimated to be around $90 million, driven by his roles in high-grossing film franchises, endorsements, and his production company, Indivisible Productions. His work in the Jurassic franchise has made him one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood.
Advocacy and Personal Life
Pratt’s personal life has also garnered notable public attention. He was married to actress Anna Faris from 2009 to 2018, and they have a son, Jack, who was born prematurely in 2012. The couple’s separation was amicable, and they remain committed co-parents.
In 2019, Pratt married Katherine Schwarzenegger, daughter of actor Arnold Schwarzenegger and journalist Maria Shriver. The couple welcomed their first daughter, Lyla, in 2020, and a second daughter, Eloise, in 2022. Pratt’s faith is an important aspect of his life, and he frequently speaks about his Christian beliefs and values in interviews and on social media.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
Chris Pratt is active in various charitable causes and is known for his support of children’s hospitals, especially Seattle Children’s Hospital, where his son Jack received care as a newborn. Pratt has been involved in fundraising efforts for medical research and hospital programs, regularly donating and visiting young patients.
He is also an advocate for conservation and environmental causes, often sharing his love for nature and wildlife with his fans. Pratt has supported organizations that focus on the protection of national parks and the preservation of endangered species.
Chris Pratt’s rise from humble beginnings to becoming a beloved Hollywood star is a testament to his resilience, versatility, and natural talent. Whether making audiences laugh in comedies or thrilling them with his performances in blockbuster franchises, Pratt has proven his ability to dominate both genres.