Comedic actor, director, and producer who conquered cancer: 5 facts about the outstanding Ben Stiller

From his early days as a comedy writer and performer to his career as an actor, director, and producer, Ben Stiller has achieved outstanding success in the entertainment industry. Born into a family steeped in show business, Stiller inherited his talent for comedy from his parents, the famous comedians Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara. Stiller's unique comedic wit resonated with many and eventually made him one of Hollywood's leading actors.

Punk rock past

When he was young, Ben Stiller was not only a comedian but also fond of punk rock. The young Stiller was in a band in high school. The post-punk band called Capital Punishment released their debut studio album, Roadkill, in 1982.

Although the band did not gain widespread popularity, its members, including experienced Arizona Court of Appeals judge Peter Swann, achieved success in other areas. Stiller played drums in a band that reunited for their 30th high school graduation and later celebrated the occasion by releasing an EP called This is Capital Punishment.

Collaboration with his brother and sister

Ben Stiller is a second-generation actor with his older sister, Amy Stiller. Amy, like their mother, has often collaborated with Ben on his projects, including appearances on his highly acclaimed sketch show The Ben Stiller Show. The sibling duo has also shared the screen in films such as Reality Bites and The Bouncers.

Star Trek enthusiast

Ben Stiller's deep admiration for Star Trek is no secret. He has easily integrated references to the cult show into many of his works. In fact, he even appeared on the memorable TV program Star Trek: 30 Years and Counting, where he spoke passionately about the series.

However, a lesser-known fact about Ben Stiller is that it was Star Trek that inspired the name of his production company, Red Hour Productions. Inspired by the episode of the original series "Return of the Archons," Stiller decided to name his company after the important time of day it was about.

Victory over cancer

Ben Stiller's life changed dramatically when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer in July 2014. However, he showed incredible resilience and determination. Within three months of his diagnosis, Stiller underwent surgery to successfully remove all of his cancer cells.

In September 2014, he was officially declared healthy. Stiller later attributed his survival to early diagnosis, as he underwent a PSA test at the age of 46. Additionally, as part of his commitment to health, Stiller switched to a vegetarian diet.

The rebirth of love

In 2017, Ben Stiller and his wife Christine Taylor publicly announced their decision to end their 17-year marriage. However, five years later, in February 2022, the couple surprised the world by reconciling and canceling the divorce.

During her appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, Taylor frankly shared that the time spent apart allowed them to understand each other more deeply, which eventually led to their heartfelt reunion.