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Entertainment • Actor

Jake Johnson (actor)

Jake Johnson is an American actor, comedian, writer, and director best known for playing Nick Miller on the Fox sitcom *New Girl*.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Jake Johnson is an American actor, comedian, writer, and director best known for playing Nick Miller on the Fox sitcom *New Girl*. He has appeared in films including *Paper Heart*, *Safety Not Guaranteed*, *21 Jump Street*, *Jurassic World*, and *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse*, and made his directorial debut with *Self Reliance* in 2023.

Early life and education

Jake Johnson was born in Evanston, Illinois, with the birth name Mark Jake Johnson Weinberger. He studied at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.

Career

Johnson became widely known for *New Girl*, where he played Nick Miller. His film work includes supporting and voice roles in mainstream comedies and animated features, and he later expanded into directing with *Self Reliance*.

Personal life

Johnson is married to Erin Payne. He was raised by a single mother.

Other projects

In addition to acting, Johnson has worked as a writer and director. He also launched the podcast *We're Here to Help* with Gareth Reynolds in 2023.

Key facts

  • Known primarily for the role of Nick Miller on *New Girl*.
  • Appeared in films such as *Paper Heart*, *Safety Not Guaranteed*, *21 Jump Street*, *Jurassic World*, and *The Mummy*.
  • Provided voice acting in projects including *Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse*.
  • Starred in the comedy series *Minx* from 2022 to 2023.
  • Made his directorial debut with *Self Reliance* in 2023.

Frequently asked questions

What is Jake Johnson best known for?
He is best known for playing Nick Miller on *New Girl*.
When was Jake Johnson born?
He was born on May 28, 1978.
Where was Jake Johnson born?
He was born in Evanston, Illinois, in the United States.
What are some films Jake Johnson appeared in?
His film credits include *Paper Heart*, *Safety Not Guaranteed*, *21 Jump Street*, *Jurassic World*, and *The Mummy*.
Has Jake Johnson directed anything?
Yes. He made his directorial debut with *Self Reliance* in 2023.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jake_Johnson
    Supports: Career overview, later roles, directorial debut, and podcast
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2159926/
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, occupation, and *New Girl* role
  3. All American Speakers — https://www.allamericanspeakers.com/celebritytalentbios/Jake+Johnson/386210
    Supports: Spouse, family background, *Minx*, and *Self Reliance*
  4. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/celebrity/jake_johnson_2
    Supports: Birthplace, career history, and early comedy training
  5. TV Guide — https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/jake-johnson/bio/3030576577/
    Supports: Birth name, birthplace, and professions
  6. Television Academy — https://www.televisionacademy.com/bios/jake-johnson
    Supports: Education, *New Girl*, and work as actor/writer