The intersection of “heartthrob”and “movie star”has historically defined Hollywood, a realm where captivating visuals often serve as a pivotal aspect of storytelling. In most live-action productions, be it cinema or television, casting typically includes a leading actor intended to draw viewers in with their aesthetic appeal. While this practice may seem superficial—given that talent should ideally precede looks—modern cinema still retains its fair share of heartthrobs. Fortunately, audiences today are more discerning and often refrain from reducing these actors to mere visual attractions.
The 2000s marked a significant apex in heartthrob culture, a time when theatrical releases were the primary mode of film consumption and celebrity gossip magazines were widely circulated. Reflecting on this period, it becomes evident that certain actors built entire careers around the allure of being teen idols. Although such figures still exist, they are seldom featured in the glossy pages of publications like J-14 and Tiger Beat as they were a couple of decades ago.
15 Zac Efron
He’s Still Acting, Mostly In Comedies
Zac Efron emerged as a household name in the 2000s, gaining initial fame through Disney Channel’s High School Musical franchise and the musical film Hairspray. His compelling performances not only revealed his singing and acting capabilities but also established him as a prominent romantic lead, securing his status as a sex symbol in Hollywood.
Since his breakthrough, Efron has maintained a steady presence in both film and television, often gravitating towards comedy while occasionally delving into dramatic roles. Notably, in the 2023 film The Iron Claw, Efron portrayed the iconic wrestler Kevin Von Erich. Despite facing personal challenges, including openly discussing his struggles with substance abuse and mental health, Efron’s resilience is evident. In August 2024, he was found unconscious in a pool in Ibiza, Spain, but thankfully recuperated after a brief hospital stay.
14 Patrick Dempsey
He Is Both Acting and Auto-Racing
Patrick Dempsey rose to fame as the beloved Dr. Derek “McDreamy”Shepherd on Grey’s Anatomy, launching his career to new heights with his charming portrayal of the character. Joining the main cast at the series’ inception in 2005, Dempsey became a household name and starred in numerous romantic comedies during the decade, including Sweet Home Alabama and Made of Honor.
After leaving Grey’s Anatomy in 2015, Dempsey continued to impress audiences with appearances in films like Ferrari and Bridget Jones’s Baby. In addition to his acting pursuits, he has embraced his passion for auto racing, competing in prestigious events such as the Rolex 24 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. His enduring appeal was reaffirmed when he was named People’s Sexiest Man Alive in 2023.
13 Ryan Phillippe
He’s Been In Legal Trouble
Ryan Phillippe first captured attention in the late 1990s with roles in films like I Know What You Did Last Summer and Cruel Intentions, but it was the 2000s that solidified his heartthrob status. He garnered acclaim for his performances in critically celebrated films like Crash and Flags of Our Fathers, while his marriage to actress Reese Witherspoon further kept him in the spotlight.
Recently, Phillippe has been involved in the ABC drama Big Sky as Cody Hoyt. However, his personal life has seen its share of controversy, including allegations of harassment and a lawsuit for domestic abuse filed by an ex-girlfriend.
12 Taylor Lautner
He Recently Appeared In A Taylor Swift Music Video
After gaining attention in the film The Adventures of Sharkboy and Lava Girl in 3-D, Taylor Lautner became widely recognized for his role as Jacob Black in the Twilight Saga. At the height of his popularity, he was touted as one of the highest-paid teen actors in Hollywood. Lautner’s athleticism was showcased by his black belt in karate, which he obtained at the young age of ten.
Though his prominence has waned following the Twilight phenomenon, Lautner has made appearances in comedies like Grown Ups 2 and lent his humor to roles in Scream Queens. Recently, he made a notable comeback by featuring in Taylor Swift’s “I Can See You”music video. In 2022, Lautner married Taylor Dome, further promoting his ongoing journey in the spotlight.
11 Robert Pattinson
He Became An A24 Darling After Twilight
Robert Pattinson’s career trajectory began before Twilight, with a notable role as Cedric Diggory in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Yet it was his portrayal of vampire Edward Cullen that thrust him into the heartthrob limelight. Since expressing dissatisfaction with the series, Pattinson’s career has seen a transformation as he transitioned into more diverse roles, often within the arthouse genre.
His collaboration with A24 produced critically acclaimed films such as The Lighthouse and his pivotal role in The Batman further established him as a formidable talent. Additionally, Pattinson’s musical endeavors have added another layer to his multifaceted career.
10 Josh Hartnett
He Recently Appeared In M. Night Shyamalan’s Trap
Josh Hartnett’s rise to fame began with his role in the series Cracker, which catapulted him into stardom. The 2000s saw him portray significant characters in films such as Pearl Harbor, Black Hawk Down, and 40 Days and 40 Nights. At one point, he was even considered for the role of Batman in Christopher Nolan’s series.
Recently, Hartnett made a remarkable return to the big screen with his role in Oppenheimer (2023) and a subsequent appearance in M. Night Shyamalan’s Trap, where he portrayed a serial killer. His resurgence has not only reinvigorated his career but also showcased his versatility as an actor. Outside of acting, Hartnett continues to engage in philanthropic activities, notably in raising awareness for issues such as the East Africa droughts.
9 Orlando Bloom
He Has A Baby With Pop Star Katy Perry
Orlando Bloom, recognized for his roles as Will Turner in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise and Legolas in The Lord of the Rings, has left an indelible mark on popular cinema. His career thrived in the 2000s with significant roles in major blockbusters, including Ridley Scott’s Black Hawk Down.
In recent years, although his on-screen appearances have become less frequent, Bloom has starred in Amazon Prime’s Carnival Row, showcasing his continued relevance in the industry. Notably, his relationship with pop superstar Katy Perry, with whom he shares a daughter named Daisy, adds a personal layer to his public persona.
8 Corbin Bleu
The Disney Channel Star Is Working On Broadway
Corbin Bleu found fame as Chad Danforth in the High School Musical series, following a brief stint in Disney’s Jump In!. His talent in singing paved the way for his musical endeavors, notably releasing the album Another Side, which included hits like “Push it to the Limit.”
Unlike Efron, Bleu’s Hollywood presence diminished post-High School Musical, yet he flourished in Broadway. His roles in productions such as Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In The Heights and the revival of Kiss Me, Kate reinforced his dedication to musical theatre. Recently, he appeared in the 2023 film Camp Hideout, continuing to show versatility in his artistic pursuits.
7 Chad Michael Murray
He’s Seen Success In Reboots
Chad Michael Murray became a teen idol through his roles in films such as A Cinderella Story and Freaky Friday. His appearances in various teen series, particularly Dawson’s Creek and One Tree Hill, solidified his status during the 2000s.
Returning to the screen, Murray has experienced notable success in modern series such as Riverdale, where he played a cult leader, alongside roles in Netflix films like Mother of the Bride and The Merry Gentlemen. The upcoming sequel to Freaky Friday (titled Freakier Friday) will see him reprise his iconic role from the original film.
6 Jesse McCartney
He Is Still Making New Music
Jesse McCartney began his career as an actor, featuring in soap operas like All My Children before transitioning into the music industry. He gained recognition through series like Summerland and has lent his voice to beloved animated characters, such as Theodore from Alvin and the Chipmunks.
As a musician, McCartney released chart-topping singles, including “Leavin’”and “Beautiful Soul,”showcasing his pop prowess. Since the 2000s, he has continued to release music and, more recently, featured in the 2024 EP All’s Well with guest appearances from artists like Yung Gravy. He also took on a role in Fear the Walking Dead, demonstrating his versatility within the entertainment industry.
5 Tom Welling
He Starred In Fox’s Lucifer
Tom Welling cemented his heartthrob status through Smallville, where he portrayed Clark Kent. His involvement in the series extended beyond acting as he worked as a director and executive producer, particularly influencing the show’s ninth season.
Though not as high-profile since the 2000s, Welling starred in the ensemble drama Parkland about the Kennedy assassination and played Marcus Pierce in the Fox series Lucifer. His role continued the lineage of characters with ethical complexity and depth typical of his prior work.
4 Milo Ventimiglia
He Recently Starred In NBC’s This Is Us
Milo Ventimiglia garnered attention as Jess Mariano, the charismatic love interest of Rory Gilmore in Gilmore Girls. His talent in portraying complex characters extended through various 2000s series, including Heroes and American Dreams.
In recent times, he has been celebrated for his poignant role as Jack Pearson in the acclaimed NBC drama This Is Us, which spanned six successful seasons. Ventimiglia also showcased his versatility with appearances in The Company You Keep and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, further affirming his position in both television and film. Many might also recognize his voice from animated projects like Ultimate Spider-Man.
3 Chris Pine
He’s Become An A-List Star
Chris Pine’s rise to heartthrob status began with his role in The Princess Diaries 2, where he wooed audiences as Prince Nicholas. His journey continued with romantic comedies and culminated in the notable character of Captain Kirk in the Star Trek reboot series.
Pine has maintained his status as an A-list actor through engagements in high-profile films like Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves and Disney’s controversial animated feature, Wish. In 2023, he made his directing debut with Poolman, which had a mixed reception, demonstrating his multifaceted ability within the film industry.
2 Ashton Kutcher
He’s Facing Backlash For Defending Co-Star Danny Masterson
Ashton Kutcher initially gained fame through his role as Michael Kelso in That 70s Show. His comedic prowess extended with the success of Punk’d, influencing reality television trends. Throughout the 2000s, Kutcher starred in various films, including the cult favorite Dude, Where’s My Car?.
While Kutcher’s career has seen significant success, he has recently faced criticism for his defense of co-star Danny Masterson amidst serious allegations. His dual career as both a successful actor and venture capitalist has maintained his presence in the public eye.
1 Joseph Gordon-Levitt
He’s Branching Out Creatively
Joseph Gordon-Levitt began his acting career with a key role as Tommy Solomon in 3rd Rock from the Sun, eventually transitioning to more dramatic roles during the 2000s. He gained recognition through critically acclaimed films like 500 Days of Summer and Mysterious Skin, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor.
Gordon-Levitt stepped behind the camera with his directorial debut on Don Jon, earning accolades for his creativity. Today, he continues to engage in multifaceted projects, currently producing and starring in content for his platform, HitRecord, and balancing both acting and producing roles in Apple TV’s Mr. Corman.
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