Born in Dallas, Texas, Jeff Dunham discovered his passion for performing at an early age. By the time he was eight, he was already turning his book reports into opportunities to entertain his classmates, an indication of his early inclination towards a career in performance and comedy. His unique ability to combine humor with ventriloquism set him apart, as he focused more on the comedic aspects of his act rather than just the technical skills of voice-throwing. One of Dunham's earliest and most well-known characters is José Jalapeño, which he created during his college years. Dunham took it upon himself to build and paint José Jalapeño's head, initially intending to create a full dummy. However, his college roommate's remarks on the character convinced him to proceed with this partial creation. José, along with other beloved characters like Peanut and Walter, have become staples of Dunham's act, each bringing its own unique humor and perspective to his performances. Dunham's style and career were heavily influenced by the legendary ventriloquist Edgar Bergen. Dunham's characters, along with his knack for delivering humor that resonates with audiences, have earned him a significant place in the world of comedy. His acts are celebrated for their wit and innovative use of ventriloquism, continuing to entertain fans around the world.