Taran Killam may not be a household name like some of the actors he’s shared the screen with, but this talented comedian, actor, and writer has certainly carved out an impressive career in Hollywood. From his iconic roles on Saturday Night Live to his appearances in hit TV shows and films, Killam has proven himself to be a versatile and beloved entertainer. Beyond his professional achievements, his personal life—especially his marriage to actress Cobie Smulders—has also drawn public interest. Here are seven fascinating facts that highlight the life and career of Taran Killam.
1. A Hollywood Power Couple: Married to Cobie Smulders
Taran Killam and Cobie Smulders have been married since September 8, 2012, but their love story started long before that. The couple began dating in 2005 and got engaged in 2009, after four years of building their relationship. Their wedding took place in the picturesque town of Solvang, California, a charming Danish-inspired village that added a fairytale touch to their special day.
Cobie Smulders, best known for her role as Robin Scherbatsky on the long-running sitcom How I Met Your Mother and her portrayal of Maria Hill in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has been a constant source of support and inspiration for Killam. Together, they’ve built a family, raising two daughters: Shaelyn Cado Killam, born in 2009, and Janita Killam, born in 2015. Their love story is a testament to the balance between stardom and family life, and they’ve remained one of Hollywood’s most admired couples.
2. Playing Gary Blauman on How I Met Your Mother
While Cobie Smulders had a starring role on How I Met Your Mother as Robin Scherbatsky, Taran Killam made his own mark on the show with his recurring role as Gary Blauman. Appearing intermittently from 2006 to 2014, Killam’s portrayal of Blauman became a fan favorite, particularly in the episode that bears his character’s name, where a hilarious debate about his presence at a wedding takes center stage.
Playing alongside his wife on such a popular series gave fans a unique glimpse into their dynamic, albeit through the lens of their characters. It was one of those rare occasions where the personal and professional lives of the couple intersected on screen, much to the delight of their fans.
3. A Standout on Saturday Night Live
Killam’s six-year stint on Saturday Night Live (SNL) from 2010 to 2016 solidified his status as one of the most talented comedians of his generation. During his time on the show, he became known for his spot-on impressions and hilarious sketches. From his portrayal of political figures like Paul Ryan to his comedic takes on pop culture icons like Brad Pitt and Eminem, Killam was a versatile performer who could nail just about any role.
His time on SNL saw him appear in 126 episodes, making him a familiar face to millions of viewers. The platform also allowed him to showcase his writing skills, contributing to the creation of many beloved sketches. Even though he left the show in 2016, Killam’s legacy on SNL continues to be fondly remembered.
4. Early Start in Comedy: MADtv and The Amanda Show
Before he became an SNL regular, Killam had already cut his teeth in the world of sketch comedy. He was the youngest cast member ever to appear on MADtv, joining the show at just 19 years old. His early experience on MADtv helped him develop the comedic timing and improvisational skills that would later serve him so well on Saturday Night Live.
Killam also had a recurring role on The Amanda Show, a sketch comedy show starring Amanda Bynes that was wildly popular with younger audiences in the early 2000s. His work on the show not only brought him early fame but also sparked a brief romance with Bynes. The two dated during their time on the show but eventually went their separate ways.
5. His Height and Roots: A Californian with an Artistic Background
Standing at 6 feet 0.5 inches tall (1.84 meters), Taran Killam has a commanding presence both on and off the screen. He was born on April 1, 1982, in Culver City, California, and grew up in Big Bear Lake, California—a scenic mountain town far removed from the glitz and glam of Hollywood.
Killam’s parents were both involved in the arts, with his father, Thomas Killam, being an actor, and his mother, Kris Light, a singer-songwriter. This artistic upbringing undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping his creative path. After attending the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts, Killam went on to pursue a degree in musical theater at UCLA, although he ultimately left school to pursue his acting career full-time.
6. Appearing in Hit TV Shows and Movies
While sketch comedy has been a major part of Killam’s career, he has also made a name for himself in television and film. Aside from his roles on How I Met Your Mother and SNL, he has appeared in popular TV shows like Drake & Josh, Scrubs, Community, iCarly, New Girl, and Arrested Development.
Killam’s film career has also been impressive. He has appeared in movies such as Big Fat Liar, My Best Friend’s Girl, Grown Ups 2, Ted 2, and even the Oscar-winning film 12 Years a Slave. His ability to transition between comedic and dramatic roles speaks to his range as an actor.
7. Net Worth: A $4 Million Success Story
As of May 2020, Taran Killam’s net worth is estimated to be around $4 million. This figure reflects his decades-long career in television and film, as well as his contributions as a writer and comedian. From his early days on MADtv to his successful run on SNL and his ongoing work in Hollywood, Killam has built a solid and diverse career that continues to flourish.
In conclusion, Taran Killam is much more than just “Cobie Smulders’ husband.” He is a multi-talented actor, comedian, and writer with a rich history in sketch comedy, television, and film. His journey from a young comedian on MADtv to a household name on Saturday Night Live demonstrates his dedication to his craft, and with his wife and two daughters by his side, it seems like he’s just getting started.
