Evan Spiegel Then and Now
By Cornell Scott / September 26, 2024
Evan Spiegel Then
Evan Spiegel, co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc., was born in Los Angeles, California, on June 4, 1990.
Growing up in the affluent neighborhood of Pacific Palisades, he was immersed in a family environment that valued education and ambition, with both of his parents, John W. Spiegel and Melissa Ann Thomas, working as lawyers.
This background not only instilled in him a strong work ethic but also provided a nurturing space that encouraged creativity and intellectual curiosity.
During his formative years, Spiegel attended the prestigious Crossroads School for Arts and Sciences in Santa Monica, which is known for its emphasis on the arts and a rigorous academic curriculum.
It was here that he began to explore his passion for design, taking classes that would later inform his career in technology and innovation.
His artistic pursuits led him to enroll in design courses at both the Otis College of Art and Design and the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, further solidifying his skills and interest in the visual aspects of digital media.
Spiegel’s academic journey continued at Stanford University, where he studied product design.
At Stanford, he developed a keen interest in technology and entrepreneurship, which culminated in the creation of Snapchat in 2011.
This social media platform revolutionized the way people share moments, emphasizing ephemeral content and visual communication.
Spiegel’s unique blend of artistic sensibility and technical knowledge has played a crucial role in shaping Snap Inc. into a leading player in the tech industry, reflecting his early influences and experiences that fostered his innovative spirit.
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Evan Spiegel Career
In April 2011, Evan Spiegel embarked on a transformative journey in his product design class at Stanford University, where he proposed the concept of an app centered around ephemeral messaging.
This innovative idea marked the beginning of a new era in digital communication.
Later that year, collaborating with fellow Stanford classmates Bobby Murphy and Reggie Brown, Spiegel developed a prototype named “Picaboo,” which would eventually be rebranded as Snapchat.
This platform introduced a unique way for users to share images and messages that would disappear after being viewed, tapping into the growing desire for more private and temporary social interactions.
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The app quickly gained traction, and by the end of 2012, Snapchat boasted 1 million daily active users, prompting Spiegel to leave Stanford before completing his degree to dedicate himself fully to the project.
As Snapchat’s popularity soared, Spiegel demonstrated not only his entrepreneurial spirit but also his commitment to social responsibility.
In February 2017, he and Murphy pledged to donate over 13 million shares of Class A common stock to an arts, education, and youth non-profit organization, establishing the Snap Foundation.
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This initiative aims to create pathways to the creative economy for underrepresented youth in Los Angeles, reflecting Spiegel’s desire to give back to the community that nurtured his ambitions.
Their philanthropic efforts continued with a significant donation of $3 million to aid individuals affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring their dedication to making a positive impact during challenging times.
In addition to his entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavors, Spiegel has also made strategic moves in the investment world.
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In 2021, he joined the board of directors of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts, a prominent investment management firm.
This position not only highlights his influence in the tech and investment sectors but also positions him to contribute his insights on innovation and entrepreneurship.
As Spiegel continues to navigate his career, he remains a pivotal figure in both the technology landscape and philanthropic initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to leveraging his success for broader societal benefit.
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Evan Spiegel’s Wife and Children
Evan Spiegel’s personal life took a significant turn when he began dating Australian model Miranda Kerr in 2015.
Their relationship quickly garnered media attention, not only due to Kerr’s high-profile career but also because Spiegel was emerging as a key player in the tech industry with Snapchat’s success.
Their connection appeared to blend the worlds of technology and fashion, attracting interest from fans and followers alike.
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After a year of dating, the couple became engaged in July 2016, signaling a deepening commitment that many admired.
The couple tied the knot in May 2017 in a private ceremony, celebrating their love and partnership in a setting that reflected their personalities and values.
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Their marriage not only marked a personal milestone for Spiegel but also underscored a union between two influential figures in their respective fields.
Following their wedding, Spiegel and Kerr welcomed their first son, Hart Kerr Spiegel, in 2018, followed by the birth of their second son, Myles Spiegel, in 2019.
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As parents, Spiegel and Kerr have emphasized the importance of family, often sharing glimpses of their life together on social media while maintaining a degree of privacy.
Their parenting style reflects their commitment to fostering creativity and individuality in their children, echoing their own careers that thrive on innovation.
Together, they represent a modern power couple, balancing their demanding careers with their roles as devoted parents, showcasing a blend of professional success and personal fulfillment that resonates with many.
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Evan Spiegel Now
At 34 years old, Evan Spiegel has solidified his reputation as a prominent figure in the technology and business sectors.
As the co-founder and CEO of Snap Inc., he has been instrumental in reshaping social media through the creation of Snapchat, a platform that revolutionized the way users communicate and share visual content.
Spiegel’s innovative vision and ability to stay ahead of trends have kept Snapchat relevant in a competitive landscape, particularly among younger audiences who crave ephemeral and engaging content.
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In 2015, Spiegel gained widespread recognition when he was named the youngest billionaire in the world, a title that highlighted not only his financial success but also his entrepreneurial acumen.
This milestone marked a significant achievement, considering that he was still in his mid-twenties at the time.
Spiegel’s journey from a college student with a bold idea to a billionaire CEO serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs, showcasing the potential for innovation and creativity in the tech industry.
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Today, Spiegel continues to lead Snap Inc. while navigating the complexities of running a major tech company.
He is known for his hands-on leadership style and commitment to fostering a company culture that prioritizes creativity and experimentation.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Spiegel is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Snap Foundation, which aims to support underrepresented youth in Los Angeles.
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His multifaceted approach to business, philanthropy, and family life paints a picture of a modern entrepreneur who is not only focused on profit but also on making a meaningful impact in the community.
As Spiegel looks to the future, his continued influence in the tech industry and beyond remains a point of great interest.
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Evan Spiegel’s Net Worth
Evan Spiegel, an American entrepreneur and the co-founder of Snap Inc., boasts a net worth of approximately $2.9 billion, reflecting his significant success in the tech industry and the tremendous growth of Snapchat as a leading social media platform.
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FAQs
Evan Spiegel, the CEO of Snapchat, has an estimated net worth of around $2.9 billion.
Evan Spiegel’s annual salary is reported to be approximately $1 million, but his overall compensation, including stock options and bonuses, can significantly increase his earnings.
Evan Spiegel owns about 45% of Snap Inc.’s total shares, which grants him a substantial portion of the company’s voting power.
Evan Spiegel, along with his Stanford classmates Bobby Murphy and Reggie Brown, is credited as one of the inventors of Snapchat, having developed the app while they were students.