Bobby Lee, a renowned American actor, comedian, writer, and podcaster, has amassed a net worth of $1 million. He rose to prominence through his role in the FOX sketch comedy series “MADtv,” where he was a cast member from 2001 to 2009. In addition to his work on MADtv, Bobby Lee has accumulated over 80 acting credits, including appearances in notable films such as “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” (2004), “Pineapple Express” (2008), “The Dictator” (2012), and “The Wrong Missy” (2020). He has also made his mark on television in series like “Animal Practice” (2012–2013), “Love” (2016–2018), “Magnum P.I.” (2019–present), and “Reservation Dogs” (2021–present).
Lee’s career extends beyond acting, as he has been involved in podcasting and content creation. He is the creator, writer, and director of the YouTube series “Talking” (2012–2013). He also co-hosts the podcasts “TigerBelly” (2015–present) and “Bad Friends” (2020–present), where he engages with a broad audience. Additionally, Bobby Lee has lent his voice to various animated projects, including the 2021 film “Wish Dragon” and TV shows like “Family Guy” (2009; 2011), “The Awesomes” (2013–2015), and “Inside Job” (2021–2022).
Early Life and Family Background
Bobby Lee, born Robert Lee Jr. on September 17, 1971, hails from San Diego, California. He is the son of Jeanie and Robert Lee, Korean immigrants who owned clothing stores in Encinitas and Escondido. Unfortunately, Bobby’s father passed away in 2019 after battling Parkinson’s disease. Raised in Poway, California, Bobby grew up alongside his younger brother Steve, who is also a comedian and musician. Steve has made several appearances on Bobby’s podcast and had guest spots on “MADtv.”
Bobby attended Painted Rock Elementary School and Twin Peaks Middle School before enrolling in Poway High School, where he was a member of a breakdancing team. Tragically, Bobby revealed that he was molested during his childhood, a difficult experience that shaped his early years. After high school, Bobby enrolled at Palomar College but dropped out before completing his degree.
Bobby Lee’s Career Journey
Bobby Lee’s path to fame began in an unconventional way. After working in several restaurants and cafes, he found himself employed at The Comedy Store in San Diego in 1994. Initially taking odd jobs at the comedy club, Bobby soon tried his hand at stand-up comedy during one of the club’s amateur nights. His talent caught the attention of both Carlos Mencia and Pauly Shore, who invited him to open for them. Soon after, Bobby began performing regularly at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles, which was owned by Shore’s mother, Mitzi.
Although Bobby’s parents initially hoped he would join the family business, they were unsupportive of his comedy aspirations. However, after Bobby’s breakthrough appearance on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” in 2002, his father apologized for not backing his career choice. In the early years of his career, Bobby appeared on television shows such as “Late Friday” (2002), “I Love the ’90s” (2004), and “Asia Street Comedy” (2004). He also starred in the 2005 comedy special “Kims of Comedy,” alongside comedians like Ken Jeong, Steve Byrne, and Kevin Shea.
Bobby made his acting debut in 1999’s “The Underground Comedy Movie,” followed by guest roles on shows like “Arli$$” (1999) and “The Brothers Garcia” (2001). In 2001, Bobby made history as the first Asian cast member on “MADtv,” where he became widely recognized for his comedic characters, including Bae Sung, Tank, and Yamanashi. He also gained fame for his impersonations of famous personalities like Connie Chung and Kim Jong-il.
When “MADtv” was canceled in 2009, Bobby’s career continued to thrive. He returned to the show in 2016 for its revival on The CW, appearing in three episodes. During his time on “MADtv,” Bobby starred in several films, including “Pauly Shore Is Dead” (2003), “Kickin’ It Old Skool” (2007), and “Pineapple Express” (2008). He also played a memorable role as Kenneth Park in “Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle” (2004) and reprised his character in the 2011 sequel, “A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas.”
Bobby’s television credits include appearances on “Curb Your Enthusiasm” (2005), “The League” (2009; 2014), “Arrested Development” (2013), and “NCIS: Los Angeles” (2015; 2018). He also had recurring roles in series like “Animal Practice” (2012–2013), “Love” (2016–2018), and “Magnum P.I.” (2019–present).
Bobby Lee’s film career is equally impressive, with notable roles in “Hard Breakers” (2010), “Paul” (2011), and “The Dictator” (2012). He continued to take on various roles in comedies such as “Keeping Up with the Joneses” (2016), “Public Disturbance” (2018), and “Hero Mode” (2021). Bobby’s recent television work includes the 2020 series “Dream Corp LLC” and “Reservation Dogs” (2021–present), as well as a recurring role in “And Just Like That…” (2021–present).
In 2015, Bobby launched the “TigerBelly” podcast with his then-girlfriend Khalyla Kuhn. The podcast gained immense popularity and ran successfully for years. Later, in 2020, Bobby and comedian Andrew Santino started hosting the “Bad Friends” podcast, which has also become a significant success. Additionally, Bobby has made guest appearances on shows like “About Last Night” and “Dark Side of Comedy.”
Personal Life and Challenges
Bobby Lee has faced significant personal challenges throughout his life, particularly with substance abuse. He began using marijuana and methamphetamine at the young age of 12 and later became addicted to heroin by 15. Bobby sought treatment and got sober at 17 after undergoing three drug rehabilitation programs. However, after 12 years of sobriety, he relapsed into Vicodin use, and after a series of challenges on “MADtv,” he eventually regained his sobriety with the support of producer Lauren Dombrowski.
Bobby has been open about his struggles with addiction and alcoholism. In a 2019 episode of “TigerBelly,” Bobby admitted that he had relapsed again after the death of his father earlier that year. He revealed that he sought rehab and has since regained his sobriety. Throughout his career, Bobby has become an advocate for recovery and often speaks openly about his experiences.
In 2022, Bobby and his long-time girlfriend, Khalyla Kuhn, who co-hosted “TigerBelly” with him, announced their breakup after 10 years together. Bobby shared the news on his podcast, expressing deep affection for Khalyla and acknowledging the profound impact she had on his life. He described her as the love of his life and credited her with helping to transform him.
In May 2023, Bobby Lee filed a lawsuit against Wondery, the company that had previously signed a distribution and ad sales deal for the “TigerBelly” podcast. Wondery had canceled the deal, citing a “morals clause” related to a story Bobby had told in 2013. The story, which involved a fabricated account of using a young-looking sex worker in Tijuana, was deemed unacceptable by the company. Bobby’s lawsuit alleges that “TigerBelly” did not agree to a morals clause and that Wondery should have been aware of the story before entering into the contract.
Bobby Lee’s career has been one of resilience and determination, overcoming both personal and professional challenges to reach his current level of success. From his early years working in comedy clubs to becoming a fixture in the entertainment industry, Bobby has built a lasting legacy. Through his acting, voice work, podcasting, and personal stories, he has become a beloved figure in Hollywood. Despite his struggles, Bobby has continued to evolve, inspiring others with his journey of recovery and growth.
