Snap Inc.’s CEO, Evan Spiegel, has emerged as one of the most influential figures in the tech sector and a prominent global entrepreneur. With a fortune valued at approximately $2.7 billion according to Forbes, Spiegel has established himself as one of the youngest billionaires in the world. Snap Inc. is widely recognized for its flagship application, Snapchat, which has become a staple in social media platforms worldwide. While Spiegel’s professional life is well-documented, his personal and religious background is less commonly discussed in the public sphere.
Evan Spiegel’s familial connections reveal a rich tapestry of cultural and religious influences. Born to John W. Spiegel and Melissa Ann Thomas, both attorneys, Spiegel grew up in the Pacific Palisades neighbourhood of Los Angeles. His upbringing was within the Episcopalian tradition; however, his ancestral lineage is marked by Jewish heritage. His paternal grandfather, a Jewish immigrant from Romania, played a significant role in shaping the family’s history, which included the anglicization of their surname from Spielberger to Spiegel. This dual heritage of Episcopalian and Jewish traditions contributes to Spiegel’s multifaceted identity.
Despite his high-profile status, Spiegel has maintained a measure of privacy regarding his religious beliefs. Nonetheless, there have been glimpses into his connection with Judaism, notably during a 2014 visit to Israel with then-girlfriend, pop star Taylor Swift. The couple reportedly celebrated Hanukkah together, indicating Spiegel’s engagement with his Jewish roots.
Beyond the religious aspect, Spiegel’s family background is a reflection of a broader ethnic and cultural diversity. His grandfather’s journey from Romania and his French Catholic grandmother have interwoven European threads into the family narrative. On his mother’s side, the lineage is predominantly of English origin, with elements of Irish and Scottish ancestry, as suggested by the Welsh surname ‘Thomas’, which is his mother’s maiden name.
The complexity of Spiegel’s background is further enriched by his international connections. He holds dual citizenship in the United States and France, with the French passport obtained through his father in 2018. His proficiency in the French language and ownership of a residence in Paris underscore his ties to France.
Spiegel’s personal life took a romantic turn when he married Australian supermodel Miranda Kerr in 2017. Together, they have welcomed two sons, Hart and Myles. Kerr’s son from her previous marriage to actor Orlando Bloom brings additional familial layers to their household, epitomising a modern blended family.
The portrait of Evan Spiegel that emerges is one of a man who navigates the intersection of various cultural, religious, and familial identities. This intricate combination of influences not only shapes his personal life but also offers insight into the diverse perspectives that may influence his leadership at the helm of a global tech powerhouse like Snap Inc.
