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Adam Brody’s religion is Judaism. The actor best known as Seth Cohen on The O.C. was raised in a Jewish family and had a bar mitzvah, but he describes himself as not religious. His faith today is best described as a secular Jewish identity: a connection to Jewish heritage and holidays without regular religious practice.
Early Life and Jewish Background
Adam Brody was born on December 15, 1979, in San Diego, California, and grew up in the suburbs of the city. Both of his parents are Jewish, and he is of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, with ancestors from Russia and Poland, according to Hey Alma.
His Jewish upbringing included the usual markers of a Reform- or cultural-style Jewish childhood: he celebrated Hanukkah and became a bar mitzvah. The Times of Israel likewise notes that Brody grew up in suburban San Diego and had a bar mitzvah.
Adam Brody’s Religious Views
Brody has been direct about where he stands. In an interview quoted by Hey Alma, he said: “I’m not religious but both my parents are Jewish. I was bar mitzvahed, and we celebrate Hanukah.” That makes him a secular Jew: someone who keeps a Jewish identity and some traditions without observing religious law or attending services regularly.
He has also spoken about community. Of moving to Hollywood, he said there are “so many Jews” and that he “immediately liked the camaraderie with people who had the same heritage.”
His wife is actress Leighton Meester, who is not Jewish. Brody has said he wants to raise their children with both Jewish and Christian traditions, adding, “Hanukkah and Christmas, those things are fun.”
One common mix-up is worth clearing up: the mixed Jewish father and Christian mother belong to his O.C. character, Seth Cohen, not to Brody. His own parents are both Jewish. For another public figure with a Jewish background, see Arthur Blank’s religion.
In 2024 Brody took on a rabbi role in the Netflix comedy Nobody Wants This, which renewed public interest in his own faith and upbringing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What religion is Adam Brody?
Adam Brody is Jewish. He was raised in a Jewish family, had a bar mitzvah, and describes himself as not religious, which makes him a secular Jew.
Are Adam Brody’s parents Jewish?
Yes. Both of his parents are Jewish. The idea that one parent is Christian comes from his character Seth Cohen on The O.C., not from his real life.
Does Adam Brody practice Judaism?
He has said he is not religious, but he celebrates Hanukkah and keeps a Jewish identity. He does not present himself as an observant Jew.
Will Adam Brody raise his children Jewish?
He has said he wants to raise his children with both Jewish and Christian traditions, since his wife, Leighton Meester, is not Jewish.
