Ken Perlstein
Ken Perlstein is a New York-based actor, writer, and comedian whose career extends across stage, screen, and stand-up comedy. His body of work shows a balance between dramatic and comedic performance, with a focus on character and storytelling that has been central to his artistic path.
He grew up in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he studied acting and directing at the University of Michigan. In 1994, he relocated to New York to pursue his career in entertainment. His first industry opportunity came as an NBC page, which allowed him to gain direct exposure to the production side of television while learning the importance of structure and consistency in the craft.
Ken later earned his MFA in Acting through The Actors Studio MFA Program at The New School. During his time there, he trained with members of The Actors Studio. He worked under the guidance of experienced professionals, which helped him refine his technique and strengthen his artistic discipline.
His stage work includes roles in productions such as Laughter on the 23rd Floor and Lost in Yonkers. On television, he has made recurring appearances on The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. He has taken on guest roles in well-regarded series, including Succession, The Americans, City on a Hill, Person of Interest, and FBI.
In addition to acting, he has written, produced, and directed original projects. Perlstein created and starred in the independent film "January," which was screened at the Millennial Film Festival and the Miami Independent Film Festival. He also wrote and executive-produced the pilot "How Am I Doing?", which was featured at festivals across the country and is now available online. Both projects earned recognition for his acting and directing. He is currently developing a new series and preparing its pitch deck.
He has also spent more than two decades performing stand-up comedy at well-known New York City venues, including Caroline’s, Comic Strip Live, Stand Up New York, and the British Comedy Festival. His work has also reached audiences throughout the tri-state area and Los Angeles, combining personal stories with character-driven humor.
Outside of his artistic career, Ken works as a certified peer recovery specialist with a mobile crisis unit in the Bronx. In this role, he provides support and guidance to individuals in crisis, collaborating with licensed social workers to connect them with the necessary resources and services. His efforts in this field reflect his commitment to care and advocacy, extending beyond his performance.
He is also known for his skill in impressions and has a background in athletics, including football, wrestling, and swimming, with his current focus on swimming and cross-training.
Now living with his family in New York City, Ken Perlstein continues to dedicate himself to acting, writing, comedy, and advocacy, staying active in his creative work while remaining connected to his community.