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Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves is a Canadian actor known internationally for his versatile roles in both action and drama films. He gained widespread fame through iconic movies such as Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, The Matrix series, and the John Wick franchise.

Related Biography: John Legend

Early Life and Background

Keanu Charles Reeves was born on September 2, 1964, in Beirut, Lebanon, to Patricia Taylor, an English costume designer and performer, and Samuel Nowlin Reeves Jr., an American from Hawaii with Chinese, English, Irish, and Portuguese ancestry. Following his parents’ divorce, Reeves moved with his mother and sister first to New York City and later to Toronto, Canada, where he was raised.

Reeves showed interest in various pursuits as a child, including ice hockey, where he earned the nickname "The Wall" for his goalkeeping skills. However, he eventually shifted focus toward acting. He began his career with appearances on Canadian television and made his film debut in the 1985 Canadian feature One Step Away.

Rise to Fame: The Matrix and John Wick

Reeves reached a turning point in his career with the 1999 science fiction film The Matrix, directed by the Wachowski siblings. In the role of Neo, a computer hacker who discovers the reality he knows is a simulation, Reeves became the face of one of the most influential action films of the era. Praised for its groundbreaking visual effects, philosophical themes, and stylized fight choreography, the film was a major global success. Two sequels, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions, were released in 2003, with Reloaded achieving significant box office success.

Reeves later made his directorial debut with the martial arts film Man of Tai Chi in 2013. He continued exploring action roles, appearing in 47 Ronin (2013), which received mixed reviews. His career saw renewed enthusiasm with the release of John Wick in 2014, which was praised for its stylish action and Reeves’s performance as a retired hitman. The film spawned successful sequels: John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017), John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum (2019), and later entries.

In 2018, Reeves starred alongside Winona Ryder in the romantic comedy Destination Wedding. The following year, he appeared in the science fiction thriller Replicas and continued to be a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. In 2019, speculation around John Wick 4 suggested possible appearances by fellow Matrix actors such as Carrie-Anne Moss or Hugo Weaving, though no official confirmation followed at that time.

Personal Life and Tragedy

In 1999, Reeves and his then-partner Jennifer Syme experienced the stillbirth of their daughter, Ava Archer Syme-Reeves, at eight months of pregnancy. The tragedy deeply affected the couple and eventually led to their separation. In April 2001, Syme died in a car accident in Los Angeles after losing control of her vehicle. Reports at the time indicated she had been undergoing treatment for depression.

Career Longevity and Net Worth

Keanu Reeves has built a lasting career in both critically acclaimed and commercial films. Known for his professionalism and humility, Reeves continues to maintain a strong foothold in Hollywood. His estimated net worth exceeds $380 million, a testament to his enduring popularity and the success of franchises such as The Matrix and John Wick.


Quick Facts
Birth Date: 2 Sep, 1964
Age: 56 yrs
Citizenship: Canada
Birth Place: Beirut
residence: Hollywood Hills
Gender: Male
Description: Canadian actor, producer and musician
Net Worth 2021: 360 million
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Last Modified: May 25 2025
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