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Entertainment • Actor

Jon Heder

Jon Heder is an American actor and producer best known for playing the title character in the 2004 comedy film *Napoleon Dynamite*.

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

Jon Heder is an American actor and producer best known for playing the title character in the 2004 comedy film *Napoleon Dynamite*. He later reprised the role in an animated television series and appeared in a range of comedy films and voice-acting roles.

Early life and education

Jon Heder was born in Fort Collins, Colorado, and grew up in Salem, Oregon. He attended Brigham Young University and completed a degree related to computer animation.

Breakthrough with *Napoleon Dynamite*

Heder became widely known for his starring role in *Napoleon Dynamite* (2004). The role brought him major recognition and led to later appearances connected to the franchise.

Film and voice work

After *Napoleon Dynamite*, Heder appeared in comedy films such as *The Benchwarmers* and *Blades of Glory*. He also provided voice work for projects including *Monster House*, *Surf's Up*, and the animated *Napoleon Dynamite* series.

Personal life

Public biographical sources state that Heder is married to Kirsten Bales. Those sources also say the couple have four children.

Key facts

  • Jon Heder is an American actor and producer best known for playing the title character in *Napoleon Dynamite* (2004).
  • He made his feature-film debut as Napoleon Dynamite and later reprised the role in an animated series.
  • His other film credits include *The Benchwarmers*, *Blades of Glory*, *Monster House*, and *Surf's Up*.
  • He was born in Fort Collins, Colorado, and raised in Salem, Oregon.
  • He studied at Brigham Young University and earned a degree in computer animation.
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Canadian context

Jon Heder is known to Canadian audiences primarily through North American film and television releases, especially the cult comedy *Napoleon Dynamite* and later mainstream comedy roles.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Jon Heder?
Jon Heder is an American actor and producer best known for portraying Napoleon Dynamite in the 2004 film of the same name.
What is Jon Heder best known for?
He is best known for his breakout role as Napoleon Dynamite, which made him widely recognized in film and television.
What other films has Jon Heder appeared in?
He has appeared in *The Benchwarmers*, *Blades of Glory*, *Just Like Heaven*, *Monster House*, and *Surf's Up*.
Did Jon Heder do voice acting?
Yes. He voiced Napoleon Dynamite in the animated series and also worked on animated films including *Monster House* and *Surf's Up*.
Where was Jon Heder born?
He was born in Fort Collins, Colorado, United States.
Is Jon Heder married?
Biographical sources state that he is married to Kirsten Bales.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jon_Heder
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, nationality, and breakthrough role in *Napoleon Dynamite*.
  2. Tribute.ca — https://www.tribute.ca/people/biography/jon-heder/12666/
    Supports: Birthplace, education at Brigham Young University, family background, and film credits.
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1417647/
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, spouse, children, acting credits, and producer credit.
  4. All American Speakers — https://www.allamericanspeakers.com/celebritytalentbios/Jon+Heder/403207
    Supports: Recognition for *Napoleon Dynamite*, award mentions, voice work, and later projects.
  5. Apple TV — https://tv.apple.com/us/person/jon-heder/umc.cpc.6351ty8xkvi4jwyi39nwhp4px
    Supports: Early life, upbringing in Oregon, BYU attendance, and degree in computer animation.