Kenny Ortega is among Hollywood’s most influential choreographers, directors and producers. Whether it’s defining Michael Jackson’s performances, directing the biggest musical theater hits for Disney or even the recent remake “The Lion King,” his career has had a long-lasting impact on entertainment. But Kenny Ortega doing now? Who is in his family? What’s his net worth? So this blog will help answer all of these questions and more!
Who is Kenny Ortega?
Kenneth John Ortega, better known as Kenny Ortega, was born on April 18, 1950, in Palo Alto, California. He began his career as a professional dancer before moving into choreography and direction. As he has collaborated with huge celebrities, big brands, and movie studios, he is a legendary name in Hollywood’s entertainment space.
Milestones in Kenny Ortega’s Career
- Choreographed Michael Jackson’s Dangerous Tour and HIStory Tour.
- And directed (ahem) the cult-classic Hocus Pocus (1993).
- Developed Disney’s High School Musical and Descendants series.
- Choreographed movies including Dirty Dancing (1987).
- Won several Emmy Awards and Directors Guild of America (DGA) Awards.
Now, let us explore his life, personal and professional in detail.
What Does Kenny Ortega Do Now?
Kenny Ortega: Still working in Hollywood as of today. Although he’s stepped away from major motion-picture deals, he has kept mentoring young creators and continuing new endeavors. Recently, he has been:
- TV series producer and director.
- Working on musical projects with Disney.
- Mentoring young choreographers and dancers.
Though she’s been in the business for decades now, Ortega’s passion for storytelling and dance has remained at the forefront.
Kenny Ortega’s Family and Personal Life
Kenny Ortega’s family, marriage and relationship, as well as personal life have attracted a lot of fans. Let’s clear up the facts.
Is Kenny Ortega Married, Does Kenny Ortega Have A Daughter?
No, Kenny Ortega has no daughter. He has never had kids, although there are plenty of rumors about his children.
Who is Kenny Ortega’s Wife?
Kenny Ortega has never tied the knot.
Who is Kenny Ortega’s Boyfriend?/Partner.
Kenny Ortega is openly gay but he has kept his relationships private. He also has never publicly introduced a long-term partner.
Are Kenny Ortega and Jenna Ortega Family?
No, Kenny Ortega is not related to Jenna Ortega.
Despite sharing the last name “Ortega”, the two are not related. Jenna Ortega is an actress known for Wednesday and Stuck in the Middle and Kenny Ortega is a director and choreographer. The connection is entirely coincidental.
Kenny Ortega’s Net Worth
Kenny Ortega Net Worth: $14 Million.
His wealth comes from:
- Fees for choreography and directing
- Royalties from Walt Disney movies (High School Musical, Descendants)
- Concerts and live performances
- TV and streaming projects
59 years old, is still making money from previous and future works because of his successful career.
What Has Happened to Kenny Ortega?
Kenny Ortega is working in Hollywood today, but he has been cutting down on big-screen projects. Where he used to direct big studio movies, which he now prefers:
- Working behind the scenes.
- That mentoring young directors and choreographers.
- Content for streaming and television.
And although he’s not as publicly active as he once was, he’s still influencing the entertainment industry!
The Best Projects of Kenny Ortega
Here are some his most popular films and TV series:
As a Director
- Hocus Pocus (1993)
- High School Musical (2006, 2007, 2008)
- Michael Jackson’s This Is It (2009)
- Descendants (2015, 2017 and 2019)
- Julie and the Phantoms (2020)
As a Choreographer
- Dirty Dancing (1987)
- Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
- Newsies (1992)
- Michael Jackson’s Dangerous Tour (1992–1993)
From these projects you can see his signature style and creativity.
Fun Facts About Kenny Ortega
Here are a few things about Kenny Ortega you probably don’t know:
- He began working as a backup dancer.
- He collaborated with Madonna, Cher and Gloria Estefan.
- Ortega was supposed to direct a Footloose remake at one point, but it fell through.
- He declined to direct Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001).
- In 2019, Ortega was awarded a Disney Legends Award.
His influence in Hollywood isn’t limited to dance — he’s an icon of storytelling and filmmaking.
FAQs About Kenny Ortega
What is the name of Kenny Ortega?
His birth name is Kenneth John Ortega.
How old is Kenny Ortega?
Kenny Ortega is 75 years old as of 2025.
Where was Kenny Ortega born?
His birth place was Palo Alto, California, USA.
Was Kenny Ortega a Michael Jackson Assistant?
Yes! He created choreography for Michael Jackson’s Dangerous Tour and HIStory Tour. He also directed This Is It (2009).
Why is Kenny Ortega famous?
He is the choreographer of Dirty Dancing and the director of High School Musical, Descendants and Hocus Pocus.
What is the salary of Kenny Ortega?
According to various outlets, his net worth is between $12 million and $14 million, largely from his directorial work and choreography gigs.
What is Kenny Ortega doing now?
Yes! He remains active in television, streaming and entertainment projects.
Did Kenny Ortega ever get married?
Kenny Ortega has never been married, no.
Does Kenny Ortega have any connection with Jenna Ortega?
No, they are not related. They merely happen to have the same last name.
What was the last project Kenny Ortega worked on?
His bill wrote the Netflix series Julie and the Phantoms (2020).
Conclusion
Kenny Ortega is a world-famous choreographer and director whose influenced multiple generations. From Michael Jackson’s shows to Disney’s blockbusters, his creativity revolutionized the use of dance and music onscreen. Though he’s less visible now, he continues to inspire new artists, choreographers and directors. Via movies, music or TV, his legacy in Hollywood will live on forever.
