Patrick Renna is an American actor and producer best known for his iconic role as Hamilton “Ham” Porter in the 1993 cult classic The Sandlot. With his unmistakable comedic timing and the unforgettable line, “You’re killing me, Smalls!”, Renna became a fan favorite in 1990s cinema. Today, he continues to captivate audiences as an actor, producer, and podcast host. Here’s an in-depth look at his career, personal life, and accomplishments.
Patrick Renna’s Early Life and Career Beginnings
Patrick Maxwell Renna was born on March 3, 1979, in Boston, Massachusetts. Raised in a close-knit family, Renna credits his supportive upbringing for keeping him grounded, even after his rise to fame. In a 2020 interview with Fox News, Renna reflected on his early life, saying, “I’m lucky I came from a great family who gave me a solid foundation. My parents gave me as normal of a childhood as possible, so any kind of celebrity never got to my head.”
Renna moved to Los Angeles at a young age to pursue his passion for acting. His career began with a small, uncredited role on the Nickelodeon series Salute Your Shorts in 1992. However, it was his breakout performance in The Sandlot that catapulted him to stardom. The film, which grossed $34.3 million against a $7 million budget, remains a beloved classic to this day.
Acting Career Highlights
Following his success in The Sandlot, Renna went on to build an impressive acting resume. In 1993, he starred alongside Pauly Shore in the comedy Son in Law, and two years later, he played a lead role in the soccer comedy The Big Green. Throughout the 1990s, Renna appeared in a variety of films and television series, including Sometimes They Come Back… Again (1996), Falling Sky (1998), and ER (1999).
One of Renna’s most memorable TV roles came in a 1998 episode of The X-Files titled “Bad Blood,” in which he played a vampire. Critics, including Rebecca Traister of Salon.com, have praised the episode as one of the series’ best.
In addition to live-action roles, Renna lent his voice to the animated series Recess (1998–2000) and its accompanying films, Recess: School’s Out (2001) and Recess: Taking the Fifth Grade (2003). During the 2000s, Renna appeared in notable television series such as Judging Amy, Boston Legal, and Bones. He also produced and starred in the 2015 comedy film Bad Roomies.
Most recently, Renna appeared in the Netflix series GLOW (2018) and announced his involvement in the upcoming Disney+ sequel series to The Sandlot. The new show will focus on the children of the original team and is set in 1984.
Patrick Renna’s Net Worth
As of 2025, Patrick Renna’s net worth is estimated to be $1.5 million. His wealth stems from his decades-long acting career, producing ventures, and his work as a voice actor. Renna also hosts the YouTube series “You’re Killing Me” and the podcast “You’re Killing Me with Patrick Renna,” both of which draw inspiration from his iconic Sandlot line.
Despite not reaching blockbuster celebrity status, Renna has maintained a steady and diverse career, making him a respected figure in Hollywood.
Personal Life: Family and Values
Patrick Renna married Jasmin Renna on October 6, 2006. The couple has two sons: Flynn, born on April 14, 2017, and Liam, born on June 6, 2020. Renna often shares glimpses of his family life on social media, showing his role as a devoted father and husband.
The family is active in the Church of Scientology, with Jasmin serving as the Executive Director of the Mission of Los Feliz at one point. Renna’s involvement in Scientology includes participation in various church fundraisers and events.
In interviews, Renna has emphasized the importance of family and a supportive environment in helping him navigate the challenges of Hollywood. “Keeping the same friends and staying close to family are key,” he noted, adding that these relationships kept him grounded during his formative years in the entertainment industry.
Avoiding the Child Star Curse
Renna’s career trajectory is notable for avoiding the pitfalls that many child stars face. He attributes his stability to his parents and their insistence on maintaining a sense of normalcy. “I didn’t switch schools when I started acting and I kept the same friends,” he explained. “That’s what kept my head on somewhat straight.”
While Renna admits to having some fun in Hollywood during his late teens and early 20s, he avoided the excesses often associated with fame. He stayed away from drugs and heavy partying, choosing instead to focus on his craft and personal growth.
Legacy and Future Projects
Patrick Renna’s contribution to pop culture is undeniable, thanks in large part to his role in The Sandlot. His comedic timing and memorable one-liners continue to resonate with fans of all ages. Beyond his acting and producing credits, Renna’s podcast and YouTube series have allowed him to connect with a new generation of fans.
With the upcoming Sandlot TV series and other potential projects on the horizon, Renna shows no signs of slowing down. His ability to balance his career, family life, and personal values makes him a standout figure in the entertainment industry.