Jeff Hiller: Memoir, Emmy Nod & Heartfelt Moments in 2025

Jeff Hiller is enjoying a remarkable year. This San Antonio–born actor and comedian, best known for his role as Joel in HBO’s *Somebody Somewhere*, has captured our hearts and headlines in 2025 with a heartfelt memoir release, an Emmy nomination, inspiring activism for his hometown, and poignant reflections on faith and identity. Let’s unpack how this humble artist is leaving a powerful mark on and off the screen.

“Actress of a Certain Age” — Memoir Drops with Punch and Poise

On June 10, Hiller released his memoir, Actress of a Certain Age: My Twenty-Year Trail to Overnight Success. The collection of essays takes readers through his life story—from enduring bullying as a queer kid in Texas and working as a social worker, to discovering improv comedy and earning his breakout role at age 44. His tone strikes a rare balance: raw, self-reflective, and frequently hilarious. Plus, he even jokes about a typo—“cetrtain” was printed on early copies—showing he’s as human as the rest of us. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Emmy Nominee for Joel: A Long-Awaited Validation

In July 2025, Hiller received his first Emmy nomination in Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, for his portrayal of Joel in *Somebody Somewhere*. Despite the show’s critical acclaim and Peabody Award, this was the first time he earned personal recognition from the Television Academy—resulting in joyful disbelief and viral anecdotes about missing calls and delayed reactions. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Giving Back: Flood Relief via Cameo Campaign

Hiller also used his platform for good. In July, he announced via Instagram that he’d donate 100% of his Cameo earnings for a week to help flood relief efforts in Kerr County, Texas—highlighting his commitment to his roots and humor even when raising serious awareness. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Faith and Queerness: A Longform Conversation

On KCRW’s *The Sam Sanders Show* in June, Hiller opened up about growing up queer in conservative Christian spaces. He described how church was both sanctuary and a place of internal turmoil—sharing a nuanced, lived experience that resonated deeply with listeners. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

From Bullying to Breakthrough: Personal Reflections

In an emotional *People* interview, Hiller called writing his memoir “cathartic,” especially when recounting childhood bullying as a gay youth in Texas. “I was talking about writing it… ‘It’s weird that it’s bringing up a little bit of pain,’” he said. The process helped him reclaim compassion for his younger self. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Career Snapshot and On-Screen Legacy

His role as Joel was the culmination of two decades on stage and screen—which include improv work at Upright Citizens Brigade, guest spots on *30 Rock* and *Broad City*, and roles in *American Horror Story: NYC*. *Somebody Somewhere* aired from 2022–2024 and earned Hiller a Peabody Award and wider acclaim. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Emotional Resonance and Critic Acclaim

In a recent *Los Angeles Times* profile, Hiller discussed how Joel’s arc—acceptance, late-in-life love, forgiveness—mirrored his own emotional growth and vulnerability. He hopes people connect with the truth behind the performance and celebrates storytelling that humanizes rather than caricatures. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}

External Insight

For a sharp reflection on how Hiller responded to his Emmy nod, and the emotional weight of recognition after years in the industry, check out this piece from Vulture.

What’s Next for Jeff Hiller?

Will he attend the Emmy Awards on September 14? Time to grab a suit.
More public appearances—author talks, panels, or interviews discussing his queer, artistic, and spiritual journey.
Potential acting returns—actors loved for authenticity often attract scripts that embrace truth.
Continued activism—watch for how he leverages Cameo or storytelling to uplift Chicago or San Antonio communities.