Jay Kelly (2025) cast & characters: Meet the stars behind the film and the roles they play

Director Noah Baumbach’s latest comedy-drama, Jay Kelly, features an ensemble cast led by George Clooney in the titular role, and Adam Sandler as his manager, Ron. Releasing for a limited theatrical run on November 17, 2025, the film also features Laura Dern, Riley Keough, and Billy Crudup, among other actors.

The plot centers on Jay Kelly (Clooney) during an important phase in his life. He embarks on a reflective journey through Europe alongside his loyal manager, Ron (Sandler), after an incident sparks an existential crisis.

As Jay confronts his diminishing fame, strained family ties, and the hollow rituals of celebrity, the trip becomes a moving search for meaning and reconnection, especially with his estranged daughter. After its theatrical run, Jay Kelly will debut on Netflix on December 5, 2025.

The main cast of Jay Kelly

George Clooney at Netflix's Jay Kelly NYC Tastemaker Screening (Image via Getty)

In Jay Kelly, veteran actor George Clooney stars as a famous actor in the titular role. The American actor rose to popularity with his performance as Dr. Doug Ross in NBC's medical drama series ER (1994-1999).

Later, Clooney transitioned into the cinema and gave memorable performances in films such as the Ocean's trilogy, Coen Brothers' O Brother, Where Art Thou?, Michael Clayton and Up in the Air. An Academy Award recipient, Clooney has also transitioned into directing and producing and has become one of Hollywood's most influential and enduring A-listers.

Adam Sandler at Jay Kelly London Special Screening (Image via Getty)

Adam Sandler features as Jay's manager, Ron Sukenick, in the Jay Kelly. Sandler most recently appeared in the sports comedy film Happy Gilmore 2.

The American actor rose to fame as a cast member on Saturday Night Live (1990-1995) before becoming a box office king with the 90s comedies like Billy Madison, Happy Gilmore, and The Waterboy. He earned major awards including People's Choice and MTV Movie Awards for his comedic roles in Hollywood films, which had a total box office gross of over $2 billion worldwide.

His most recent performances include Howard Ratner in the crime thriller Uncut Gems (2019). Sandler was also praised for his role in the sports drama Hustle (2022) and the sci-fi film Spaceman (2024).