Kerri Kasem was born on June 6, 1978, in London, England, to American Top 40 broadcaster Casey Kasem and his first wife, Linda, a political fundraiser. She grew up in the Kasems' Hollywood home with her brother Mike and sister Julie, with whom she organized and "directed" plays for the family throughout their childhood.

Following her high school graduation, Kerri moved to Santa Cruz, California, to become an instructor in the fine art of bungee jumping. She soon returned home to Los Angeles to study acting at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and broadcasting at the Academy of Radio Broadcasting. In addition to graduating from both of these institutions, Kerri also attended the Comedy Connection's improv classes and took advanced vocal training