Famous Actors Who Started Their Careers as Professional Models

It’s common for today’s biggest Hollywood stars to have started as models, appearing in fashion magazines and on runways. They often used their looks and charm to secure high-profile advertising deals with major brands. This experience not only built their confidence in front of the camera but also helped them make valuable connections that opened doors to television and film. While many began as models, they’re now best known for their critically acclaimed acting work.

Channing Tatum

The actor began his career in entertainment as a model and dancer, landing commercials for well-known brands like Armani and Abercrombie & Fitch. This early work helped him get his first big film role in ‘Step Up’. With a strong presence and natural talent, he’s since become successful in both dramatic and comedic roles, and is now famous for leading the ‘Magic Mike’ movies.

Ashton Kutcher

This actor’s career started unexpectedly when he was scouted as a model while at a bar in Iowa. He quickly signed with a top agency and modeled for brands like Calvin Klein. This led to his breakout role as Michael Kelso on the sitcom ‘That 70s Show,’ where he became widely recognized. Since then, he’s successfully split his time between acting in movies and building a career as an entrepreneur.

Jamie Dornan

Before becoming a famous actor, he was a highly successful model, even nicknamed “the golden torso” by the media thanks to his work with brands like Dior and Calvin Klein. He started acting with a part in the historical film ‘Marie Antoinette’, and later earned praise for his intense performance in the TV series ‘The Fall’. He then became widely known for playing the lead role in the ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ movies.

Josh Duhamel

This actor began his career in modeling, moving to California with that goal in mind. He achieved early success, winning Male Model of the Year in an international contest in the late 1990s. This led to an acting role on the soap opera ‘All My Children’, and eventually, he moved on to starring in popular television shows and major films. Today, he’s most famous for his work in the ‘Transformers’ movies.

Ian Somerhalder

Starting his career at just ten years old, this performer traveled extensively for high-profile fashion campaigns, working with brands like Guess and Versace. He later transitioned to acting, and his experience with the camera proved valuable when he landed his first major role in ‘Lost’. He became widely known for playing Damon Salvatore on ‘The Vampire Diaries’ and continues to work as an actor and producer today.

Mark Wahlberg

This actor initially became well-known as a musician and through his striking advertisements for Calvin Klein underwear in the early 1990s. He then transitioned from his musical career, demonstrating his ability as a serious actor. His role in ‘Boogie Nights’ cemented his status as a respected performer in Hollywood, and he has since been nominated for numerous awards for both his acting and producing work.

Justin Chambers

Before becoming a familiar face on a popular medical TV show, this actor had a thriving career as a fashion model. His career began when he was discovered on the Paris subway and he soon worked with major brands like Armani and Calvin Klein. This international experience helped him move into acting in the late 1990s. He’s best known for playing Alex Karev on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ for fifteen seasons, and his modeling background undoubtedly prepared him for a life in the spotlight.

Djimon Hounsou

I’ve been following this actor’s career for years, and it’s a truly remarkable story. He started out as an immigrant from Benin, finding himself homeless in Paris. Can you believe he was discovered while living on the streets? That led to a whirlwind career as a model, even appearing in music videos. But it was his film debut in ‘Amistad’ that really announced his arrival. Since then, he’s earned two Oscar nominations playing incredibly compelling supporting characters. He’s really cemented himself as one of the most gifted character actors working today – a total pro who always delivers.

James Marsden

This actor began his career as a model, working with Versace and appearing in many fashion catalogs. His good looks and fit physique led to small roles on TV shows. He became famous for playing Cyclops in the ‘X-Men’ movies, and has since proven he can excel in different genres, including musicals and romantic comedies. He remains a well-known actor in both television and film.

Tyson Beckford

This actor first gained fame as a highly successful male model, becoming a longtime face of Ralph Lauren and helping to bring more diversity to the fashion industry. He later transitioned into acting, appearing in films like ‘Into the Blue’ and ‘Zoolander’. His modeling career gave him opportunities to host TV shows and appear in music videos. He continues to work as an actor while still being recognized as an important figure in fashion.

Shemar Moore

He began his career as a model to finance his college studies. After gaining experience in a recurring role on ‘The Young and the Restless’, he successfully moved into primetime television. He became well-known for playing Derek Morgan on ‘Criminal Minds’, and now stars in the action series ‘S.W.A.T.’, solidifying his position as a leading actor.

Boris Kodjoe

Before becoming an actor, this performer excelled as both an athlete and a professional model. He worked with a leading agency and appeared in many well-known ad campaigns. He started his acting career with a role on the TV series ‘Soul Food’ and has since been in several films and shows, including the ‘Resident Evil’ movies. His modeling experience gave him the confidence and stage presence needed to succeed in the entertainment industry.

Alexander Skarsgård

This actor grew up in a well-known acting family and started working as a model and actor when he was very young. He stepped away from the industry for a while, but returned to modeling in his early twenties. He became internationally recognized for his role in the TV series ‘True Blood,’ and has since received many awards for his powerful performances in dramas such as ‘Big Little Lies.’ He continues to choose demanding roles in a variety of films, from smaller independent projects to large-scale blockbusters.

Jason Momoa

Discovered by a designer while in Hawaii, this actor was named Hawaii’s Model of the Year in 1999. This initial success opened the door to acting, with his first role appearing on ‘Baywatch Hawaii’. He later became hugely popular for his portrayal of Khal Drogo in ‘Game of Thrones’, which then led to him landing the lead role in the ‘Aquaman’ films. Today, he’s a globally recognized action star.

Alex Pettyfer

This actor started his career young, spotted in a toy store and quickly signed as a child model for brands like Gap. He continued modeling through his teens before landing his first major acting role in the film ‘Stormbreaker’. He became even more well-known for his part in the drama ‘Magic Mike’, where he acted alongside other former models. Now, he’s expanded into directing and producing, all while still taking on acting roles. His experience starting out in the fashion world likely helped him succeed in the competitive world of acting.

Norman Reedus

Before becoming a famous TV actor, he started his career as a model, working with brands like Prada and Levi’s. His distinctive, tough appearance led to work in high fashion and music videos. He first appeared in films with ‘The Boondock Saints,’ which gained a dedicated following. He became a worldwide star playing Daryl Dixon in ‘The Walking Dead,’ and continues to be a well-known face in horror and action movies and shows.

Travis Fimmel

This actor was first spotted by a talent scout while he was working out at a gym in Melbourne, Australia. He then moved to the United States and quickly became a popular model for Calvin Klein. His success in fashion opened doors to acting, and he landed the starring role in the TV series ‘Vikings’. He gained widespread praise for his portrayal of the historical figure Ragnar Lothbrok over several seasons. Since then, he’s also appeared in films like the fantasy adventure ‘Warcraft’.

Kellan Lutz

This actor began his career as a model, working for brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Levi’s. He moved to Los Angeles to become an actor, continuing to model throughout. He became internationally known for playing Emmett Cullen in the ‘Twilight’ movies, which made him a popular star in films aimed at young adults and action movies. Since then, he’s also worked as a television host and dedicated time to charitable causes.

Tom Welling

Originally discovered as a model, this actor worked professionally for several years, appearing in ads for brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Abercrombie & Fitch. He gained widespread recognition playing a young Clark Kent on the TV series ‘Smallville,’ a role he held for a decade and which cemented his place in superhero television history. More recently, he’s transitioned into directing and producing, though he still occasionally acts.

Eddie Redmayne

This actor started his career as a model for Burberry while also performing in theater. He then moved into film, gaining recognition in movies like ‘My Week with Marilyn’ and ‘Les Misérables’. He won an Oscar for his performance as Stephen Hawking in ‘The Theory of Everything’ and is now widely considered one of the leading actors of his generation.

Tom Hardy

This actor started his career by winning a modeling competition at age twenty-one. He did some professional modeling, but soon dedicated himself to acting. He first appeared in a major film with the war movie ‘Black Hawk Down,’ and then earned widespread praise for his powerful performances in films like ‘Bronson’ and ‘Mad Max: Fury Road.’ Today, he’s celebrated for his commitment to physically demanding roles and his ability to play a diverse range of characters.

Chace Crawford

Before becoming a full-time actor, he earned money as a model throughout high school and college. His big break came with the role of Nate Archibald on the popular show ‘Gossip Girl’, which launched his career and led to film roles. More recently, he’s demonstrated his versatility by playing a superhero in the series ‘The Boys’. His modeling experience proved valuable in handling the challenges of becoming famous so quickly.

Matt Bomer

I’ve always been a big fan of this actor! Before he hit it big, he actually started out as a model, doing commercials. He then moved into TV, getting his start in soap operas before really breaking through. Most people probably know him as Neal Caffrey from ‘White Collar’ – he was fantastic in that role! He’s also earned a lot of critical acclaim, and even awards, for his powerful performance in the drama ‘The Normal Heart’. It’s great to see someone so talented and versatile continue to work in both television and on stage.

Garrett Hedlund

Discovered as a teen while shopping at a mall, this actor began his career with a major modeling agency and appeared in L.L. Bean ads. He then moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting, quickly landing a significant role in the film ‘Troy’ alongside well-known actors. He continued to gain recognition with a lead role in ‘Tron Legacy’ and has since concentrated on more serious roles in independent films and TV shows.

Colton Haynes

This actor started his career at fifteen, working as a model for brands like Abercrombie & Fitch. His modeling success led to acting roles, beginning with guest appearances on TV shows. He became well-known for playing Jackson Whittemore on ‘Teen Wolf,’ and later joined ‘Arrow’ as Roy Harper. He still pursues both acting and modeling today.

Douglas Booth

This actor began his career as a model, working with Burberry alongside other well-known faces in the fashion industry. After appearing in several major campaigns, he transitioned to acting and first gained attention for playing Boy George in the TV movie ‘Worried About the Boy’. Since then, he’s starred in both historical dramas and modern retellings of classic stories. His modeling experience gave him a strong on-screen presence that has benefited his acting career.

Theo James

Before becoming a successful actor, he started his career as a model for various lifestyle brands. He became internationally recognized for playing Four in the ‘Divergent’ movies, which helped him become a prominent leading man in young adult action films. Since then, he’s worked in both television dramas and independent movies. He still works with luxury brands as a spokesperson, all while continuing to take on a variety of acting roles.

Robert Pattinson

This actor started his career as a model at age twelve, but didn’t pursue it for long. He transitioned to acting with a part in ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’ and gained worldwide fame playing Edward Cullen in the ‘Twilight’ films. Since then, he’s earned praise for his work in smaller, independent films and for his critically acclaimed performance as ‘The Batman’. He’s known for choosing interesting and demanding roles.

Taylor Kitsch

I’ve always been a fan of this actor – it’s fascinating to look at his background! Before he became known for his acting, he actually had a successful career as a model, working with brands like Diesel and Abercrombie & Fitch. He took the leap and moved to New York to chase his dream, and things really took off when he landed the part of Tim Riggins on ‘Friday Night Lights’. That role really put him on the map, and soon he was in big-budget films like ‘John Carter’ and ‘Battleship’. He’s been consistently working in both TV and movies ever since, and I appreciate how versatile he is – he can really pull off any character.

Scott Eastwood

Before becoming a Hollywood star, this actor started his career as a model, even using a pseudonym to distance himself from his well-known father. He did fashion work and appeared in music videos before landing roles in films. He first gained widespread recognition for his performance in the romantic drama ‘The Longest Ride,’ and has since become a popular leading man in blockbuster action series like ‘Suicide Squad’ and ‘Fast and Furious.’ He continues to thrive in both action and dramatic roles.

Boyd Holbrook

This actor started his career as a carpenter before unexpectedly being discovered as a model. He quickly found success working with famous designers like Gucci and Hugo Boss. He later became widely known for playing Steve Murphy in the TV show ‘Narcos,’ and has since taken on memorable roles as villains in films like ‘Logan.’ His move from modeling to acting has been characterized by powerful and compelling performances.

Jamie Campbell Bower

This actor began his career modeling in London while also working on his music and acting skills. He quickly appeared in prominent advertising campaigns and then landed parts in popular film series like ‘The Twilight Saga’ and ‘Harry Potter’. More recently, he’s become widely known for playing Vecna in ‘Stranger Things’. He continues to pursue music alongside acting, successfully balancing both. His background in modeling gave him a distinctive and captivating presence on screen.

Austin Butler

Starting as a teenager with commercials and extra work, this actor gradually built his career through appearances on TV shows aimed at young audiences. He became internationally recognized for his incredible performance as Elvis Presley in the movie ‘Elvis,’ which earned him an Academy Award nomination and cemented his status as a leading actor. Since then, he’s continued to impress in both historical films and big-budget science fiction projects.

Jacob Elordi

This actor started his career as a model, appearing in various fashion campaigns, before achieving fame. He first gained widespread recognition for his role in ‘The Kissing Booth’ and its follow-up films. His performance as Nate Jacobs in the series ‘Euphoria’ earned him critical acclaim, and he’s now one of the most in-demand young actors in Hollywood. He still works with high fashion brands while continuing to build his acting career.

Charles Melton

This actor began his career as a professional model, appearing in fashion shows for several brands. He then started acting, with a small part on ‘Glee’ and later a more significant role on ‘Riverdale’. Playing Reggie Mantle on ‘Riverdale’ made him well-known to younger viewers. More recently, he’s been praised for his work in the drama ‘May December’ alongside established actors, and he continues to combine his background in fashion with his growing success in film.

Hero Fiennes Tiffin

This actor grew up in a family of performers and started his career as a model, working with brands like Dolce & Gabbana. He became internationally known for playing the main character in the ‘After’ film series, which was based on a popular book series. His modeling experience helped him feel comfortable in front of the camera, which benefited his roles as a romantic lead. He continues to balance modeling work with acting projects and is quickly becoming a prominent figure in both the fashion and film worlds.

Patrick Schwarzenegger

This actor began his career early, launching a clothing line and working as a model for brands like Hudson Jeans. While building his acting career, he also appeared in advertisements and fashion magazines. He’s since been in films like ‘Midnight Sun’ and TV shows such as ‘The Staircase’. He still manages his business interests alongside a variety of acting projects, and his experience in modeling and fashion continues to shape how he approaches his public persona.

Paul Walker

I’ve been a fan of this actor for years! It’s amazing to think he started so young, working as a model and appearing in tons of commercials. He kept acting throughout his childhood and finally hit it big in the late nineties. Of course, everyone knows him as Brian O’Conner from ‘The Fast and the Furious’ – that role really made him a global star. But beyond his acting, I always admired his dedication to giving back. He was a huge supporter of ocean conservation, and it was clear he really cared. It’s sad he’s gone, but his early start and consistent work definitely built a lasting legacy.

Mike Vogel

Before becoming a well-known actor, he worked as a professional model for Levi’s. He started his acting career with a part in the TV series ‘Grounded for Life’ and later appeared in films like ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ and ‘The Help’, which brought him more attention. He’s since had leading roles in several TV dramas, including ‘Under the Dome’. Throughout his career, he’s proven versatile, successfully playing both tough action roles and emotionally complex characters.

Jesse Williams

Before becoming an actor, he worked as a teacher and also modeled for brands like Kenneth Cole. He then moved to Los Angeles to focus on acting, and soon after, he landed a regular role on ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ as Jackson Avery, a character that quickly became a fan favorite. Since then, he’s become a vocal advocate for social issues and has also started producing film and television projects, all while continuing to act in movies and on stage.

Taylor Kinney

This actor began his career as a professional model before becoming a television and film actor. He first became well-known for his work on the show ‘The Vampire Diaries,’ but he’s best recognized as Kelly Severide in the long-running series ‘Chicago Fire.’ Throughout his career, he’s also made appearances in several films and music videos. He’s successfully transitioned from modeling into a steady career in television drama.

Gilles Marini

This actor started his career working in a bakery before becoming a sought-after model for brands around the world. He first became widely known for his role in the ‘Sex and the City’ movie, and then won over audiences as a contestant on ‘Dancing with the Stars’. Since then, he’s been a regular face on TV, appearing in shows like ‘Switched at Birth’ and ‘Brothers and Sisters’. His experience as a model proved valuable, helping him land roles that emphasized physical appearance.

Matthew Gray Gubler

This actor started his career as a model, working with famous designers like Marc Jacobs and Burberry while still studying film. He then transitioned to acting, landing the role of Dr. Spencer Reid on ‘Criminal Minds’, which he played for fifteen seasons – and even directed some episodes. Beyond acting, he’s also a talented artist and has written children’s books. His unusual appearance and creative skills have made him stand out in Hollywood.

Michael Fassbender

This actor began his career with modeling, which gave him early visibility in the entertainment world. He then dedicated himself to acting, appearing in shows like ‘Band of Brothers’. He became internationally recognized for his work in films such as ‘X-Men’ and ‘Prometheus’. Known for his commitment to his craft, he’s been nominated for several Academy Awards and remains a highly respected and adaptable actor.

Michiel Huisman

This actor started his career in the Netherlands as both a musician and a model. He then moved into acting, landing roles in TV shows like ‘Treme’ and ‘Nashville’. He became internationally known for playing Daario Naharis in ‘Game of Thrones’, and has since appeared in many films and popular streaming series. His early work in the Dutch entertainment world helped build a solid base for his success on a global scale.

Tom Hopper

This actor began his career as a professional model before becoming well-known on British TV. He first gained recognition for his work in shows like ‘Merlin’ and ‘Black Sails,’ and his fame grew even more when he played Luther Hargreeves in ‘The Umbrella Academy.’ His physique and tall stature naturally led to roles in action-packed movies and series, and he remains a popular actor in the action and fantasy genres.

Liam Hemsworth

Following in his brothers’ footsteps, this actor began his career with modeling work as a teen. He achieved worldwide recognition for playing Gale Hawthorne in ‘The Hunger Games’ movies, which opened doors to leading roles in both romantic and action films. He’s now a well-established actor in Hollywood, consistently appearing in major films, and his early industry experience prepared him for his current level of fame.

Henry Cavill

This actor began his career as a model, appearing in campaigns for brands like Dunhill. He then rose to international fame playing Superman in ‘Man of Steel’ and other movies. More recently, he’s become incredibly popular for starring in the series ‘The Witcher,’ and continues to be a favorite for playing heroic roles in film.

Jared Leto

This actor began his career as a model before landing his breakthrough role as Jordan Catalano on the TV show ‘My So-Called Life’. He’s now an Academy Award winner and the frontman of a popular rock band. He’s particularly known for his dedication to his craft, often fully immersing himself in roles – as seen in films like ‘Dallas Buyers Club’ – and continues to successfully juggle both acting and music.

Chris Carmack

I’ve always been fascinated by actors who have diverse backgrounds, and this guy is a perfect example. Before he became an actor, he actually worked as a model – you might have seen him in Abercrombie & Fitch catalogs! He first really caught my attention when he showed up on ‘The O.C.’ – he quickly became a fan favorite. Since then, he’s kept building a solid career with appearances in shows like ‘Nashville’ and ‘Grey’s Anatomy’. What’s even cooler is that he’s a musician too, and he often manages to weave his musical talents into the characters he plays. It’s amazing how he’s successfully juggled modeling, television, and music throughout his career.

Share your thoughts on these actors who started out as professional models in the comments.

2026-02-24 03:21