Manhattan Loft
In 1999, Joel paid $1.6 million for a newly built loft in Manhattan’s West Village neighborhood. He sold this loft in March 2025 for $7.6 million.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born Joel David Katz on April 11, 1932, in Cleveland, Ohio, Grey was introduced to show business through his father, Mickey Katz, a Jewish musician and comedian known for his Yiddish-English parody songs. Grey began performing at age nine in local theater productions and made his professional debut at Cleveland’s Cain Park Theater. By his teenage years, he had already adopted the stage name Joel Grey and was touring nightclubs across the country, developing his skills as a song-and-dance performer.
Broadway Breakthrough and Triumph
Grey’s Broadway career began in earnest with roles in “Come Blow Your Horn” (1961) and “Stop the World – I Want to Get Off” (1962), but it was his casting as the Master of Ceremonies in “Cabaret” that transformed him into a Broadway legend. The role, which he originated in 1966, earned him a Tony Award and established his signature performance style. He would go on to star in numerous Broadway productions, including “George M!” (1968), “Goodtime Charley” (1975), and “The Grand Tour” (1979), demonstrating his remarkable range as a performer.
Film and Television Success
Grey’s transition to film was cemented by his Oscar-winning recreation of his “Cabaret” role in Bob Fosse’s 1972 film adaptation, making him one of the few performers to win both a Tony and an Oscar for the same role. His film career includes notable appearances in “Man on a Swing” (1974), “Buffalo Bill and the Indians” (1976), and “Remo Williams: The Adventure Begins” (1985). On television, Grey has appeared in numerous series and made-for-TV movies, earning Emmy nominations and showcasing his versatility across different media.
Later Career and Artistic Evolution
As Grey matured, he continued to take on challenging roles while expanding his artistic horizons. He appeared in Broadway revivals of “Chicago” (1996) and “Wicked” (2003), proving his enduring appeal to new generations of theatergoers. In his seventies, Grey emerged as a serious photographer, publishing several well-received books of photography and having his work exhibited in major galleries. His photography often focuses on urban landscapes and abstract architectural details, revealing yet another dimension of his artistic vision.
Personal Life and Legacy
Grey’s personal life has been marked by both triumph and openness. He was married to actress Jo Wilder from 1958 to 1982, and they had two children, including actress Jennifer Grey. In 2015, at age 82, Grey publicly came out as gay in his memoir “Master of Ceremonies,” adding another layer to his already rich life story. His influence on American theater and film continues to resonate, and he remains active in the arts community, serving as a living link between classic Broadway and contemporary entertainment. His career stands as a testament to artistic longevity and the power of continuous reinvention.
