Joey “CoCo” Diaz, born on February 19, 1963, in Havana, Cuba, immigrated to the United States at age three. Raised in North Bergen, New Jersey, he faced early life challenges, including the loss of his mother during his teenage years. These hardships led him down a troubled path, involving criminal activities and incarceration. However, Diaz transformed his life by embracing stand-up comedy, eventually becoming a prominent figure in the entertainment industry.
Throughout his career, Diaz has showcased his versatility as a comedian and actor. He gained recognition for his appearances in films such as “The Longest Yard” and “Spider-Man 2,” as well as television roles in series like “My Name Is Earl.” Beyond acting, Diaz hosted the popular podcast “The Church of What’s Happening Now,” where he engaged listeners with candid discussions and interviews. As of 2025, his estimated net worth stands at $1.5 million, reflecting his successful endeavors across multiple entertainment platforms.
Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | José Antonio Díaz (Joey Diaz) |
| Date of Birth | February 19, 1963 |
| Place of Birth | Havana, Cuba |
| Nationality | American (Cuban descent) |
| Profession | Comedian, Actor, Podcaster |
| Net Worth (2025) | $1.5 million – $2 million |
| Notable Roles | “The Longest Yard”, “Spider-Man 2”, “My Name is Earl” |
| Podcast | “Uncle Joey’s Joint” |
| Spouse | Terrie Clark (married in 2009) |
| Children | Daughter: Mercy Sofia Diaz (born 2013) |
| Early Life Challenges | Raised in New Jersey, incarcerated in 1988 |
| Comedy Career Start | 1991 (stand-up comedy debut) |
What is Joey Diaz’s Net Worth?
Joey Diaz’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to be between $1.5 million and $2 million. This wealth is primarily derived from his multifaceted career as a comedian, actor, and podcast host. His earnings are bolstered by touring, royalties, and revenue from his podcast ventures, including “The Church of What’s Happening Now” and “Uncle Joey’s Joint.” Additionally, his presence on platforms like YouTube contributes to his income, with estimated annual earnings ranging from $568,900 to $737,300. These diverse income streams reflect his successful and enduring presence in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Education
José Antonio Díaz, known professionally as Joey “CoCo” Diaz, was born on February 19, 1963, in Havana, Cuba. At the age of three, he immigrated to the United States with his mother, settling in North Bergen, New Jersey. His father passed away when Joey was three, and his mother, who managed a bar and a numbers game operation, died when he was sixteen.
During his youth, Diaz attended McKinley School and North Bergen High School, where he earned awards in performing arts. After graduating in 1982, he briefly attended the University of Colorado Boulder but left due to dissatisfaction. This period was marked by personal struggles, including criminal activities that led to a prison sentence in 1988. While incarcerated, he began performing stand-up comedy for fellow inmates, sparking his interest in the art form.
Prison Time
In 1988, Joey Diaz was convicted of kidnapping and aggravated robbery, leading to a four-year prison sentence. He served approximately 16 months before being released. During his incarceration, Diaz discovered his passion for stand-up comedy, performing routines for fellow inmates during weekly movie nights. This experience ignited his desire to pursue a career in comedy upon his release.
After his release, Diaz faced challenges reintegrating into society, including struggles with substance abuse. He worked various jobs, such as selling roofing materials, but found little satisfaction. It wasn’t until he took a stand-up comedy course that he began performing professionally in 1991, marking the start of his successful comedy career.
Stand-up Comedy Career
Joey Diaz’s stand-up comedy career began in 1991 when he performed his first routine at the Comedy Works in Denver. His early performances were influenced by his tumultuous past, including his time in prison, where he honed his storytelling skills by entertaining fellow inmates.
In 1995, Diaz moved to Los Angeles to further his comedy career, leading to appearances on television shows like “My Name Is Earl” and roles in films such as “The Longest Yard” and “Spider-Man 2.” Beyond acting, he gained a significant following through his podcast, “The Church of What’s Happening Now,” which he hosted from 2012 to 2020. In 2016, Diaz released his first one-hour comedy special, “Socially Unacceptable,” showcasing his raw and unfiltered comedic style.
Film Career
Joey “CoCo” Diaz’s film career began in the late 1990s with roles in “BASEketball” (1998) and “You Got Nothin'” (2002). He gained prominence with appearances in “Spider-Man 2” and “Taxi” in 2004. His role as Anthony “Big Tony” Cobianco in “The Longest Yard” (2005) further established his acting credentials. Diaz also appeared in “Grudge Match” (2013) and “The Many Saints of Newark” (2021).
On television, Diaz had roles in series such as “NYPD Blue,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” and “My Name Is Earl,” where he portrayed Joey the Candy Bar Criminal. His diverse performances across both film and television highlight his versatility as an actor.
Television Career
Joey “CoCo” Diaz’s television career began in the early 2000s with appearances on series such as “NYPD Blue” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.” He gained prominence with a recurring role as Joey the Candy Bar Criminal in “My Name Is Earl” (2007). Diaz also appeared in episodes of “The Mentalist” (2011) and “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” (2013). Additionally, he was a regular guest on the stand-up series “This Is Not Happening” (2013–2016). His television work showcases his versatility as an actor, contributing to both comedic and dramatic productions.
Podcasting
Joey “CoCo” Diaz’s podcasting journey has significantly contributed to his fame and influence in the entertainment industry. In 2010, he co-hosted “Beauty and Da Beast” with comedian Felicia Michaels, which concluded in November 2012 after 113 episodes. Later that year, Diaz launched “The Church of What’s Happening Now,” co-hosted with Lee Syatt. This podcast, known for its candid discussions on life, comedy, and personal experiences, gained a substantial following and continued until 2020.
Personal Life
Joey “CoCo” Diaz, born José Antonio Díaz on February 19, 1963, in Havana, Cuba, has navigated a life filled with both challenges and triumphs. At the age of three, he immigrated to the United States with his mother, settling in North Bergen, New Jersey. His early years were marked by personal loss, including the death of his father when he was three and his mother when he was fifteen. These experiences, coupled with a period of substance abuse, led to legal troubles and a prison sentence in 1988.
In 1991, Joey married his first wife, with whom he has a daughter. The marriage ended in divorce in 1993, leading to a strained relationship with his daughter. In 2000, he met Terrie Clark at The Comedy Store in Los Angeles. Their relationship quickly deepened, and they married on November 25, 2009. Together, they have a daughter, Mercy Sofia Diaz, born on January 8, 2013. Terrie, a financial advisor, has been a steadfast support in Joey’s life, especially during his battles with addiction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Joey Diaz’s net worth in 2025?
Joey Diaz’s net worth is estimated to be between $1.5 million and $2 million in 2025.
What podcast does Joey Diaz host?
Joey Diaz hosts the podcast “Uncle Joey’s Joint.”
When did Joey Diaz start his comedy career?
Joey Diaz began his stand-up comedy career in 1991.
Is Joey Diaz married?
Yes, Joey Diaz is married to Terrie Clark, and they have a daughter together.
What was Joey Diaz’s first movie role?
Joey Diaz’s first significant film role was in the movie “BASEketball” in 1998.
Conclusion
Joey Diaz’s life and career are a testament to resilience and transformation. Despite a troubled past marked by criminal activity and incarceration, he reinvented himself through comedy, carving out a successful career in both stand-up and acting. His candid and unapologetic comedic style has earned him a loyal following, and his podcasting ventures have allowed fans to connect with him on a deeper level. Diaz’s journey shows that with determination and self-discovery, it’s possible to turn one’s life around, no matter the obstacles.
In addition to his success in comedy and film, Diaz’s personal life reveals a man dedicated to growth. His marriage to Terrie Clark and their daughter is a reflection of the stability he’s worked hard to build after years of struggle. Through his podcast, “Uncle Joey’s Joint,” he continues to share his experiences, offering insight into the real-life struggles and triumphs that have shaped him. Joey Diaz’s story is an inspiring example of how one can overcome adversity and build a fulfilling life, both professionally and personally.
