Johny Lever Biography: Net Worth, Movies, Age, Daughter, Parents, Siblings, Wife, Children, TV Shows, Awards

Johny Lever, born John Prakash Rao Janumala, is an Indian actor and comedian who is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of stand-up comedy in India.

Johnny has entertained audiences for over four decades. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Babulal in the 1993 film Baazigar, which earned him his first Filmfare Award for Best Comedian.

Profile

• Full name: John Prakash Rao Janumala
• Nickname: Johny Lever
• Date of birth: August 14, 1957
• Age: 68 years old
• Gender: Male
• Place of birth: Kanigiri, Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh, India
• State of origin: Andhra Pradesh
• Nationality: Indian
• Profession: Actor, Comedian
• Height: 173 cm
• Parents: Father: Prakash Rao Janumala, Mother: Karunamma Janumala
• Siblings: Two brothers (including Jimmy Moses), Three sisters
• Spouse: Sujatha Lever
• Children: Jamie Janumala, Jesse Janumala
• Relationship status: Married
• Religion: Christianity
• Ethnicity: Telugu
• Net worth: $30 million

Early Life and Education

Johnny Lever was born on August 14, 1957, in Kanigiri, Andhra Pradesh, and he is now 68 years old. Raised in the King’s Circle area of Matunga in Mumbai, Johnny grew up in a Telugu Christian family.

His father, Prakash Rao Janumala worked as an operator at Hindustan Unilever Limited, while his mother, Karunamma Janumala managed the household. Financial struggles led Johnny to leave school after completing seventh grade at Andhra Education Society English High School.

To support his family, Johnny worked odd jobs such as selling pens on Mumbai streets while mimicking Bollywood actors to attract customers.

He also spent time in Yakutpura, Hyderabad, where he honed his unique comedic style. His mimicry skills caught attention during a Hindustan Unilever function, earning him the nickname “Johnny Lever,” which later became his stage name.

Personal Life

Johnny Lever married Sujatha Lever in 1984. The couple has two children—Jamie Janumala and Jesse Janumala. Jamie has followed in her father’s footsteps by pursuing a career in stand-up comedy and acting.

Despite his fame, Johnny maintains a close-knit family life and is deeply religious, often attributing his success to divine blessings.

Career

Johnny Lever began his career performing stand-up comedy at local shows and orchestras. His talent led him to join the Kalyanji-Anandji music group, where he gained national and international exposure through tours.

Over the years, Johnny has acted in over 300 Hindi films, including hits like Deewana Mastana, Dulhe Raja, Golmaal, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and Karan Arjun. He also ventured into regional cinema with appearances in Tulu (Rang), Tamil (Anbirkku Alavillai), and Kannada (Gara) films.

In addition to films, Johnny starred in television shows like Johny Aala Re and served as a judge on Comedy Circus. He continues to perform live shows globally and remains active in the entertainment industry.

Awards and Nominations

• Filmfare Award for Best Comedian (Baazigar, 1993)
• Filmfare Award for Best Comedian (Dulhe Raja, 1998)
• Nominated for Filmfare Awards thirteen times

Net Worth

Johnny Lever‘s net worth is estimated at $30 million. His wealth comes from acting roles in Bollywood films, live performances worldwide, television appearances, and endorsements.

Social Media

• Instagram: @iam_johnylever
• X: @iamjohnylever

Filmography

• Tum Par Hum Qurban
• Baazigar
• Dulhe Raja
• Deewana Mastana
• Golmaal
• Kuch Kuch Hota Hai
• Karan Arjun
• Rang
• Anbirkku Alavillai
• Gara