Ronny Chieng, born Ronny Xin Yi Chieng in 1986 in Johor, Malaysia, is a multifaceted comedian and actor who has become a prominent voice on American television as a senior correspondent on Comedy Central's The Daily Show. His sharp, observational humor and incisive commentary on cultural and political issues have earned him a dedicated following, while his film roles have introduced him to a global audience. Chieng spent his formative years shuttling between Malaysia and Singapore before pursuing higher education in Australia, where he earned a bachelor's degree in laws from the University of Melbourne in 2010 and later obtained a Legal Practice Certificate from the Australian National University. Despite his legal training, Chieng was drawn to comedy, and he began performing stand-up in Australia in 2012, quickly establishing himself as a rising star in the country's entertainment scene.

Chieng's breakthrough came when he joined The Daily Show in 2015, where his segments often tackled Asian American representation, immigration, and global affairs with a blend of wit and skepticism. His work on the show, including his role as a rotating host, solidified his reputation as a sharp political satirist. In 2017, he created and starred in the sitcom Ronny Chieng: International Student, a semi-autobiographical series that followed a Malaysian student navigating life in Australia, which aired on Comedy Central and ABC Australia. The show showcased his ability to blend personal experience with universal comedic themes, and it was praised for its authentic portrayal of the immigrant experience. Chieng's film career gained significant momentum with his role in the 2018 blockbuster Crazy Rich Asians, where he played the memorable character Edison Cheng, a wealthy and competitive cousin in the film's sprawling ensemble cast. He also lent his voice to the English-language version of the animated feature Inspector Sun and the Curse of the Black Widow.

In 2025, Chieng achieved a major milestone by obtaining American citizenship, a decision that led him to renounce his Malaysian citizenship, as Malaysia does not recognize dual nationality. This move underscored his deep integration into the American cultural landscape and his commitment to his career in the United States. Throughout his journey, Chieng has collaborated with notable figures in comedy and entertainment, including Trevor Noah on The Daily Show and Jon M. Chu on Crazy Rich Asians, and he continues to perform stand-up tours worldwide, blending his Malaysian roots with his American experiences. His ability to navigate multiple cultural identities has made him a unique and influential figure in comedy, and he remains active in both television and film, consistently delivering sharp, relevant commentary on the modern world.