Max Greenfield

Here’s a full bio + overview for Max Greenfield, with highlights, quotes, and lessons.

Max Greenfield – Life, Career, and Memorable Quotes

Explore the life and career of Max Greenfield — from his early years in New York to his rise as a TV favorite (especially as Schmidt on New Girl). Dive into his acting journey, personality, and notable quotes.

Introduction

Max Greenfield is an American actor, author, and voice talent best known for his hilariously neurotic and proud role as Schmidt on the hit sitcom New Girl. With his comedic timing, emotional sincerity, and willingness to play exaggerated characters, Greenfield has carved a niche in both television comedy and more dramatic or voice roles. Over the years, he's expanded into writing children’s books and maintaining a steady presence in pop culture.

Early Life and Family

Max Greenfield was born September 4, 1979 in Dobbs Ferry, New York. Saturday Night Live–themed Bar Mitzvah.

In high school, he played wide receiver on the football team.

Youth and Education

After high school, Greenfield briefly attended the University of Wisconsin, but he reportedly dropped out early.

From early on, Greenfield was drawn to performance and comedic roles—his Bar Mitzvah theme already hinted at his love of Saturday Night Live and sketch comedy.

Career and Achievements

Early TV & Guest Roles

Greenfield began landing guest spots on television in the early 2000s, appearing in shows such as Boston Public, Gilmore Girls, The O.C., Undressed, and Sleeper Cell. Leo D’Amato on Veronica Mars. Ugly Betty, Greek, and other series in supporting or guest roles.

New Girl & Breakout Role

Greenfield's most acclaimed role is Schmidt on New Girl (2011–2018). Primetime Emmy Award, Golden Globe Awards, and Critics’ Choice Television Awards.

He continues to embrace his association with Schmidt, even years after the show ended, expressing pleasure when fans quote iconic lines to him.

Film, Voice Work & Later Roles

Greenfield has appeared in a variety of films and voice-over roles. Some highlights:

• He voiced Roger in Ice Age: Collision Course.

• He’s done voice work and guest appearances on animated series like Bob’s Burgers, Robot Chicken, BoJack Horseman.

• In recent years, he has starred in The Neighborhood (CBS sitcom) as Dave Johnson (taking over the role in 2018).

• He has also written children’s books such as I Don’t Want to Read This Book, I Don’t Want to Read This Book Aloud, This Book Is Not a Present, and Good Night Thoughts.

His ability to shift between comedic, dramatic, and voice roles shows versatility in a competitive industry.

Philanthropy & Personal Outreach

Greenfield is also active in philanthropy, especially with organizations like the Young Storytellers Foundation.

Personality and Talents

• Comedic energy + vulnerability: Greenfield often injects a sense of absurdity into his characters, but he balances that with moments of real emotional sincerity (especially as Schmidt).

• Self-aware & grounded: In interviews and public life, he often discusses the challenges of fame, body image, relationships, and the quirks of daily life.

• Adaptive performer: His willingness to take on voice roles, guest roles, and children’s literature shows a willingness to stretch beyond one genre.

• Warmly engaging with fans: He seems to appreciate the feedback and connection from viewers, especially those who still quote Schmidt lines to him.

• Family-oriented: His commitment to his marriage, children, and balancing public life with private priorities often comes through in his statements.

Famous Quotes of Max Greenfield

Here are several quotes that reflect Greenfield’s humor, insight, and personality:

“I always feel like people in general are much weirder and insane than anybody really wants to admit.” “I’m Jewish and my wife isn’t so right now we’re literally decorating a Christmas tree with Jewish stars draped around it.” “The most important foundation about any relationship is just being honest. You’ve got to.” “I literally have over a thousand emails in my inbox that need to be returned. … I need a good few hours to just sit and get on the phone.” “I just never want to be in this situation where … they rewrote this scene, you’re now naked. I need a little prep work.”

These lines show his blend of self-deprecation, honesty, and observational humor.

Lessons from Max Greenfield

• Lean into character quirks: Some of his strongest successes come from embracing oddness (e.g. Schmidt) rather than toning it down.

• Stay grounded in relationships: He often emphasizes honesty, friendship, and family as foundational—even in the chaos of celebrity.

• Be open to reinvention: He didn’t limit himself to one genre—moving into voice, writing, and various roles.

• Appreciate the audience: His gratitude and acknowledgment of fan support help sustain a long career.

• Balance public and private: While visible, he also keeps his family life and creative priorities in view, not letting celebrity fully consume identity.