Who Is Neil Joseph Tardio Jr.? Full Story of Téa Leoni’s Ex-Husband and Award-Winning Director
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. is a talented American director and producer best known for his work in commercials, short films, and music videos. Born on July 22, 1964, in Rye, New York, he has directed campaigns for major brands such as Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, and Nike. He earned a Peabody Award for directing Madonna’s “Rock the Vote” campaign and later received an Emmy nomination for a public service project.
Known for his creative storytelling and unique directing style, Neil has built a successful career behind the camera. Though once married to actress Téa Leoni, he has always maintained a private life and continues to work in Los Angeles, leading his company, Third Street Mining Company.
Quick Bio
| Full Name | Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | July 22, 1964 |
| Age (as of 2025) | 61 years old |
| Birthplace | Rye, New York, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Grey |
| Education | Rye Country Day School, Boston University |
| Profession | Director and Commercial Producer |
| Known For | Téa Leoni’s ex-husband, award-winning commercials |
| Awards | Peabody Award, Emmy nomination |
| Father | Neil J. Tardio Sr. |
| Mother | Margaret Tardio |
| Marital Status | Married |
| First Wife | Téa Leoni (m. 1991 – div. 1995) |
| Second Wife | Julia Sayre Hine (m. 1998 – present) |
| Children | 2 (Max Tardio and Charlie Tardio) |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Business | Third Street Mining Company |
| Social Media | Instagram: @neiltardio |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Not publicly disclosed, but financially comfortable from decades in directing and production |
Who is Neil Joseph Tardio Jr.?
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. is an American director and producer best known for his award-winning work in television commercials, music videos, and short films. Born on July 22, 1964, in Rye, New York, he built a successful career behind the camera, working with major brands like Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, AT&T, and Nike. He gained early recognition for directing Madonna’s “Rock the Vote” campaign, which earned him a Peabody Award, and later received an Emmy nomination for his creative public service work.
Many people also know him as the first husband of actress Téa Leoni, though he has always kept a private and grounded lifestyle. Today, he continues to live in Los Angeles, where he runs his production company, Third Street Mining Company, and remains active in directing and creative storytelling.
Early Life and Background
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. was born in Rye, New York, in 1964. He grew up in a creative and supportive family that encouraged imagination and hard work. His father, Neil J. Tardio Sr., owned Tardio Productions, a company that made television commercials. Being exposed to the world of production from a young age, Neil developed a strong interest in visual storytelling. His mother, Margaret Tardio, was also supportive and helped him stay grounded and focused on his goals.
Growing up around cameras, scripts, and editing rooms inspired him to pursue a career behind the scenes rather than in front of it. His upbringing gave him both creativity and discipline—two qualities that became the foundation of his professional life.
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. Age and Physical Details
As of 2025, Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. is 61 years old. He stands about 5 feet 7 inches tall (170 cm) and has a balanced, healthy build. He has brown eyes and grey hair, which give him a calm and mature appearance. His professional yet simple style reflects his grounded personality, and despite his age, he continues to stay active, creative, and passionate about his work in directing and production.
Education and Early Career
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. studied at Rye Country Day School in his hometown of Rye, New York, where he developed an early interest in media and storytelling. After finishing school, he went on to attend Boston University, where he studied film and communication. His time there helped him build a strong foundation in directing, editing, and media production.
After graduating, Neil began his career in advertising, working at major agencies such as Saatchi & Saatchi and DDB/Chicago. These early jobs taught him how to combine creativity with business goals and helped him develop the directing style that would later define his career in commercials and short films.
Career Growth in Advertising
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. began gaining recognition in the early 1990s when he joined Fahrenheit Films, where his directing career took off. In 1992, he directed Madonna’s “Rock the Vote” campaign, which became a major success and earned him a prestigious Peabody Award. This achievement helped establish him as a talented and creative director in the advertising world.
After that, he worked with many leading brands, including Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Nike, AT&T, Budweiser, and Volkswagen. His ability to tell engaging and emotional stories in short commercials made him one of the most respected names in the industry, blending humor, realism, and creativity in every project he directed.
Awards and Recognition
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. has earned several major awards for his creative work in advertising and media. He received a prestigious Peabody Award for directing Madonna’s “Rock the Vote” campaign, which inspired young people to vote. He was also nominated for an Emmy Award for his powerful anti-drug commercial called “Joint Man” for A Partnership for a Drug-Free America.
These honors highlight his talent for creating meaningful and memorable stories through short-form media. Over the years, Neil’s commercials and music videos have been praised for their humor, heart, and originality, earning him respect and admiration throughout the entertainment and advertising industries.
Directing Style and Storytelling Vision
Neil’s success as a director comes from his unique ability to make short stories feel real and human. His directing style is known for its humor, emotional honesty, and attention to detail. He believes that commercials should do more than sell a product—they should tell a story that people relate to. His commercials often focus on small, everyday moments that reflect joy, family, and connection.
He uses humor in a subtle way, making viewers smile while still keeping the message clear. Whether he is filming a scene for a major brand or a small social campaign, Neil brings out authentic performances from his actors and uses simple visuals that make the story easy to follow. His approach has influenced many younger directors who admire his ability to make something beautiful and effective within a few seconds of screen time.
Relationship with Téa Leoni
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. became more widely known to the public when he married actress Téa Leoni in 1991. Téa was an up-and-coming star at the time, known for her talent, humor, and charm. The two reportedly met in the late 1980s and formed a close bond. They got married on June 8, 1991, at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Hope, New Jersey, in a quiet and private ceremony. Their relationship was very different from most Hollywood marriages because they kept it low-key and stayed away from publicity.
During their four years together, Téa’s acting career began to rise quickly, while Neil continued to focus on directing commercials and building his reputation behind the scenes. Their different professional worlds eventually led them in separate directions, and they divorced in 1995. The separation was respectful and private, with no public conflict or gossip. Although their marriage ended, both of them went on to continue their careers and live peaceful, successful lives in their own ways.
Who Is Téa Leoni?
Téa Leoni is an American actress and producer known for her charm, talent, and strong screen presence. She was born on February 25, 1966, in New York City and began her acting career in the late 1980s. Téa gained fame for her roles in popular films such as Bad Boys (1995), Deep Impact (1998), and The Family Man (2000). She also starred in the hit television series Madam Secretary, where she played the lead role of Elizabeth McCord, a smart and compassionate Secretary of State.
Over the years, Téa has been praised for her natural acting style and ability to balance humor and emotion. Beyond her acting career, she has been involved in charitable work and remains one of Hollywood’s most respected and down-to-earth performers.
Second Marriage and Family Life
After his divorce from Téa Leoni, Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. married Julia Sayre Hine in June 1998. Julia is a successful professional who worked as a special marketing manager at Random House, a well-known publishing company. She graduated from Barnard College with honors and comes from a family with a strong background in marketing and business.
Neil and Julia have built a stable and private life together in Los Angeles, California, far from the spotlight. They have two children, a son named Max and a daughter named Charlie. Neil is known to be a devoted husband and father who values his family deeply and keeps his personal life quiet while focusing on his creative career.
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr.’s Children
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. is a proud father of two children, a son named Max Tardio and a daughter named Charlie Tardio, from his marriage to Julia Sayre Hine. Although he keeps his family life private, it is known that he is a caring and involved parent who values spending quality time with his children. Neil and his wife have raised their kids in Los Angeles, California, giving them a balanced and grounded upbringing away from the public spotlight. His dedication to family shows that, despite his busy career in directing and production, he always makes time for the people who matter most to him.
Life and Work in 2025
In 2025, Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. continues to live in Los Angeles, California, where he works as a director and producer. He runs his company, Third Street Mining Company, and also works with Durable Goods, creating commercials and short films for major brands like Bank of America, Domino’s, and Tim Hortons. Neil is also developing a movie called ShortCut Man and writing children’s books, showing his love for new creative projects. Even after many years in the industry, he remains active, passionate, and dedicated to storytelling that connects with people.
Achievements and Impact
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. has earned great respect in the advertising and film industry for his creative work and strong storytelling. He won a Peabody Award for directing Madonna’s “Rock the Vote” campaign and received an Emmy nomination for his anti-drug commercial “Joint Man.” Over the years, he has directed memorable ads for top brands like Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, Nike, and AT&T. His work is known for its humor, emotion, and human touch, which have inspired many young directors. Neil’s biggest achievement is his ability to make short stories feel powerful and real, leaving a lasting mark on modern advertising.
Personal Traits and Legacy
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. is known for his calm, humble, and creative personality, which has earned him great respect in the entertainment and advertising world. He is admired for his professionalism, kindness, and ability to bring out the best in the people he works with. Neil’s legacy comes from his dedication to quality storytelling and his belief that creativity should connect with real human emotions. Even after decades in the industry, he continues to inspire others through his work and balanced approach to life. His lasting impact shows that true success comes from passion, integrity, and doing what you love quietly but meaningfully.
While Neil Joseph Tardio Jr.’s Net Worth
While Neil Joseph Tardio Jr.’s exact net worth is not publicly known, it is clear that he has earned a comfortable living from his decades-long career in directing and production. His success with major brands and ownership of his company, Third Street Mining Company, suggests that he enjoys financial stability and professional independence. Unlike many in Hollywood, Neil values his work more for its creative satisfaction than for fame or wealth, but his long and successful career ensures that he and his family live comfortably.
Conclusion
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. is a talented and respected American director and producer who has built a successful career through creativity, hard work, and passion. From directing award-winning commercials like Madonna’s “Rock the Vote” to working with major brands such as Coca-Cola and Nike, his storytelling has touched millions of people. Beyond his career, he has lived a peaceful and fulfilling life with his wife, Julia Sayre Hine, and their two children in Los Angeles. Neil’s journey shows that true success is not about fame but about making a lasting impact through dedication, honesty, and love for one’s craft.
FAQs About Neil Joseph Tardio Jr.
1. Who is Neil Joseph Tardio Jr.?
Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. is an American director and producer known for his award-winning work in commercials, music videos, and short films.
2. When and where was Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. born?
He was born on July 22, 1964, in Rye, New York, United States.
3. What is Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. known for?
He is best known for directing Madonna’s “Rock the Vote” campaign, which won a Peabody Award, and for his creative commercials for major brands like Coca-Cola and Nike.
4. Was Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. married to Téa Leoni?
Yes, Neil was married to actress Téa Leoni from 1991 to 1995 before they divorced.
5. Is Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. married now?
Yes, he is married to Julia Sayre Hine. The couple wed in 1998 and have two children together.
6. Does Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. have children?
Yes, he has a son named Max Tardio and a daughter named Charlie Tardio.
7. Where does Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. live?
He currently lives in Los Angeles, California, where he continues his directing and production work.
8. What is Neil Joseph Tardio Jr. doing in 2025?
In 2025, Neil runs his company, Third Street Mining Company, directs commercials for top brands, and is working on a feature film called ShortCut Man while also writing children’s books.