Jeffrey Dean Morgan is a renowned American actor celebrated for his compelling performances in both television and film. He gained widespread fame for his role as Negan on AMC’s The Walking Dead, becoming a fan favorite thanks to his charismatic and intense portrayals.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Jeffrey Dean Morgan |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 22, 1966 |
| Place of Birth | Seattle, Washington, U.S. |
| Nationality | American |
| Partner | Hilarie Burton (2009–present) |
| Children | 2 |
| Occupations | Actor |
| Net Worth | Approximately $16 million (2025) |
Early Life and Education
Born on April 22, 1966, in Seattle, Washington, Jeffrey Dean Morgan was raised in Kirkland. His parents are Sandy Thomas and Richard Dean Morgan.
He attended Ben Franklin Elementary and Rose Hill Junior High before graduating from Lake Washington High School in 1984.
Morgan initially pursued basketball at Skagit Valley College, but after a leg injury, he shifted his focus to creative pursuits such as painting and writing. Eventually, he moved to Los Angeles to follow his passion for acting.
Career
Morgan’s acting career began in the early 1990s with minor roles on television and in movies. He rose to prominence with his portrayal of Denny Duquette on Grey’s Anatomy in 2005, which earned him a devoted fan base. He also played John Winchester on Supernatural between 2005 and 2007, with a return in 2019.
His breakthrough came with the role of Negan in The Walking Dead starting in 2016. His portrayal of the complex antagonist garnered critical acclaim and made him one of the highest-paid actors on the show.
Morgan’s film work includes notable roles such as The Comedian in Watchmen (2009), along with appearances in The Losers (2010), Taking Woodstock (2009), The Accidental Husband (2008), and Kabluey (2007).
He has also had recurring roles on series like Weeds and The Good Wife, demonstrating his versatility across different genres.
Personal Life
Jeffrey Dean Morgan has been with actress Hilarie Burton since 2009, marrying her in a private ceremony on October 15, 2019. The couple has two children: a son named Augustus “Gus” Morgan, born in 2010, and a daughter, George Virginia Morgan, born in 2018. The family is known for their close relationship and often shares moments from their life on social media.
Morgan is also an advocate for animal welfare and supports several rescue organizations and charities.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s net worth is estimated to be around $16 million, accumulated through his successful acting career and other ventures.
Selected Filmography
Films:
- Watchmen (2009) as The Comedian
- The Losers (2010)
- Taking Woodstock (2009)
- The Accidental Husband (2008)
- Kabluey (2007)
- Fred Claus (2007) (cameo)
Television:
- Grey’s Anatomy (2005) as Denny Duquette
- Supernatural (2005–2007, 2019) as John Winchester
- The Walking Dead (2016–present) as Negan
- Weeds (2005)
- The Good Wife (2009)
Awards and Nominations
Throughout his career, Morgan has earned several nominations, including:
- Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Guest Performer in a Drama Series (Supernatural)
- Satellite Award nomination for Best Actor in a Drama Series (The Walking Dead)
- Multiple People’s Choice Award nominations, reflecting his popularity among viewers.
Jeffrey Dean Morgan’s evolution from a hopeful athlete to a distinguished actor highlights his determination and talent, securing his place as a respected figure in the entertainment world.
