Glenn Howerton has carved out a unique and unforgettable niche in Hollywood, primarily known for his iconic portrayal of the narcissistic, sociopathic, yet undeniably charismatic Dennis Reynolds on the long-running sitcom It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. However, Howerton’s career extends far beyond Paddy’s Pub, encompassing writing, producing, and a diverse range of acting roles that showcase his considerable talent and versatility.
Early Life and Global Upbringing
Born Glenn Franklin Howerton III on April 13, 1976, in Okinawa, Japan, Howerton’s early life was anything but ordinary. His father was a fighter pilot, leading the family to frequently relocate. Before settling in Montgomery, Alabama, for high school, Howerton lived in various places including Arizona, New Mexico, England (Felixstowe, Suffolk), Virginia, and Seoul, South Korea. This peripatetic childhood, as he has mentioned in interviews, fostered an imaginative mind, often relying on creative scenarios for entertainment.
After graduating from Jefferson Davis High School, Howerton pursued his passion for acting. He spent two years at the New World School of the Arts of Miami Dade College before gaining admission to the prestigious Juilliard School’s Drama Division in New York City. He graduated from Juilliard with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2000, laying a strong foundation for his acting career.
The Rise to “Sunny” Stardom
Howerton’s professional acting career began in the early 2000s with roles in television films like Monday Night Mayhem (2002) and a main role in the short-lived sitcom That ’80s Show (2002). He also had a recurring role on the hit medical drama ER in 2003. While these early roles provided experience, it was in 2005 that his career trajectory dramatically shifted.
Alongside his friends and collaborators Rob McElhenney and Charlie Day, Howerton co-developed and co-starred in a low-budget pilot that would eventually become It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. The show, which premiered on FX in 2005, quickly gained a cult following for its dark humor, outrageous characters, and fearless tackling of taboo subjects.
As Dennis Reynolds, the perpetually frustrated, manipulative, and deeply disturbed co-owner of Paddy’s Pub, Howerton created one of television’s most memorable and unsettling comedic characters. His performance as Dennis is a masterclass in comedic timing, physical comedy, and the unsettling portrayal of a character teetering on the edge of full-blown psychosis. Beyond acting, Howerton is also an executive producer and writer for the series, contributing significantly to its unique voice and enduring success. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia has become one of the longest-running live-action sitcoms in television history, solidifying Howerton’s place in comedic royalty.
Beyond Paddy’s Pub: Diverse Roles and Ventures
While It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia remains his most prominent work, Howerton has consistently taken on a variety of other projects. In film, he has appeared in Must Love Dogs (2005), Serenity (2005), The Strangers (2008), and Everything Must Go (2010). More recently, he earned critical acclaim for his portrayal of Jim Balsillie in the 2023 film BlackBerry, which explored the rise and fall of the iconic smartphone. He also appeared in Fool’s Paradise (2023).
On television, Howerton has had notable roles as Cliff Gilbert in The Mindy Project (2013–2017), Don Chumph in the first season of Fargo (2014), and the lead role of Jack Griffin in the NBC sitcom A.P. Bio (2018–2021). He has also lent his voice to animated series like The Cleveland Show and Velma.
Howerton’s involvement in the entertainment industry extends to producing other shows and collaborating with his Sunny colleagues on various projects. Along with Rob McElhenney and Charlie Day, he also co-founded and launched Four Walls Whiskey, a venture that further diversifies his portfolio.
Personal Life
Glenn Howerton is married to actress and dancer Jill Latiano. They tied the knot on September 5, 2009, and have two sons: Miles Robert, born in 2011, and Isley Ray, born in 2014. Latiano herself made a guest appearance on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia in season 5, playing his character’s love interest.
Glenn Howerton’s Net Worth
Thanks to his extensive career in acting, writing, and producing, particularly his long-standing and highly successful role on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Glenn Howerton has amassed a significant net worth. As of 2024, Glenn Howerton’s estimated net worth is approximately $25 million. This figure reflects his consistent work on a popular and enduring television series, as well as his roles in films and other television projects, and his entrepreneurial ventures.
Glenn Howerton’s career is a testament to his talent, business acumen, and ability to create enduring characters that resonate with audiences. From a globetrotting childhood to becoming a “Golden God” of television comedy, his journey continues to entertain and impress.