Success, failure and addictions: What happened to the teen idols of the 2000s?
Adam Brody’s comeback in ‘Nobody Wants This’ has put a spotlight on the TV stars of hit shows such as ‘Dawson’s Creek,’ ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and ‘Gossip Girl’
ADAM BRODY – A recent debate took off on social media over whether Adam Brody and Joshua Jackson should be considered 'millennials' or 'Generation X.' This age ambiguity is easy to understand: while Brody and Jackson are in their forties, younger audiences often assume they’re the same age as the characters they played during their biggest TV moments. The debate isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s sparked by Adam Brody's return to the spotlight with 'Nobody Wants This,' a hit Netflix romantic comedy in which he stars alongside Kristen Bell, another former teen star.
Brody's career began with 'Gilmore Girls,' but it was his role as Seth Cohen on 'The O.C.' that made him famous. His character —charming, pop-culture savvy, and approachable— stood out against the brooding Ryan Atwood as the quintessential “boy next door,” though not many real-life neighbors look quite like him. Pictured here, Adam Brody in 2003.Jim Spellman (WireImage)Adam Brody has stayed active on screen over the years, with appearances in 'Shazam!' and 'Promising Young Woman,' where he played against type, and more recently in 'Fleishman Is in Trouble' and the Oscar-winning 'American Fiction.' Yet none of these roles hinted that nearly 20 years after 'The O.C.' ended, Brody would experience a resurgence of fan enthusiasm. This renewed "Brodymania" offers a perfect opportunity to look back and wonder what became of the teen idols of the early 2000s.
In the image, Adam Brody in 2024Olivia Wong (Getty Images)JOSHUA JACKSON - When Joshua Jackson, 46, took the stage at the last Emmy ceremony, the iconic 'Dawson’s Creek' theme song, Paula Cole’s 'I Don’t Want to Wait,' played, prompting a smile from the actor, who was visibly surprised. He’s well aware that no matter where his career takes him, Pacey Witter will forever be his defining role. It’s an irony, considering the show’s central character was Dawson himself, after whom the series was named.
'Dawson’s Creek,' Kevin Williamson’s hit TV show, redefined teen storytelling, introducing more complex and adult themes compared to its predecessors like 'Saved by the Bell' or 'Beverly Hills, 90210.' Although it wasn’t excessively dark, the show allowed its characters to explore previously untouched emotional depths for young audiences. In the first season, Pacey struggled with being a neglected son, sought solace in a scandalous romance with his teacher, and briefly joined a crowd with a mean streak. His charisma, however, won over audiences to the extent that he eventually won the affection of Joey Potter, originally Dawson’s love interest from the pilot. Yet, true to the show’s bittersweet tone, its creator later revealed that in his mind, Pacey and Joey did marry and have children—only to eventually divorce.
In the image, Joshua Jackson in 2000.Ron Galella, Ltd. (Ron Galella Collection via Getty)Alongside Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson stands out as one of the 'Dawson’s Creek' cast members with the most enduring career. While filming 'Dawson’s Creek,' he appeared in youth thrillers like 'Urban Legend' and 'Cruel Intentions,' but it’s television that has granted him his most memorable roles. After saying goodbye to Capeside, Jackson starred in the sci-fi hit 'Fringe' on HBO, portrayed Cole Lockhart in the drama 'The Affair,' and brought a true-crime character to life in 'Dr. Death.'
Jackson’s career continues to flourish. He recently reimagined Dan Gallagher, originally played by Michael Douglas, in the series reboot of 'Fatal Attraction' and stars in 'Doctor Odyssey,' the latest from prolific producer Ryan Murphy.
In the image, Joshua Jackson in 2024.John Nacion (Variety via Getty Images)MILO VENTIMIGLIA – Among the men who captured Rory’s heart in 'Gilmore Girls,' Jess Mariano, portrayed by Milo Ventimiglia, 47, remains the fan favorite. Created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, 'Gilmore Girls' centered around the unique bond between an unusually mature daughter and her youthful mother, all set in a town bordering on magical realism. This setup allowed for rapid-fire, clever dialogue in the spirit of classic Howard Hawks comedies. Ventimiglia's Jess, with his intense gaze and brooding demeanor, embodied the "bad boy" archetype — a rebellious spirit clad in leather with a motorcycle to match. Inspired by Holden Caulfield, he shared Rory’s love for literature, and by the end of the series, Jess had either read or referenced a staggering forty-one books (a number so significant that fans took the time to catalog each title).
In the image, Milo Ventimiglia in 2002.Ron DavisAfter 'Gilmore Girls,' Milo Ventimiglia starred as Peter Petrelli in 'Heroes,' a show with the mantra “save the cheerleader, save the world.” But it was Ventimiglia’s portrayal of Jack Pearson in 'This Is Us' that cemented his place in TV history. His film career includes playing Rocky’s son in 'Rocky Balboa' and 'Creed II,' a part that highlighted a birth-related facial nerve issue that Sylvester Stallone also has, which gives him his distinctive smile. Early on, Hollywood suggested corrective surgery, but Ventimiglia declined — a decision that hasn’t hindered his success.
In the image, Milo Ventimiglia in 2024.Amanda Edwards (Getty Images)BENJAMIN MCKENZIE – Benjamin McKenzie (Austin, 46) gained fame as Ryan Atwood in 'The O.C.,' a role that aimed to capture the essence of James Dean or the iconic Dylan McKay for a new generation. Following the classic teen drama formula, Ryan was a tough, economically disadvantaged outsider who, under the care of a wealthy family, managed to charm everyone with his integrity. Among those he won over was Marisa Cooper, the show's "queen bee."
In the picture, Benjamin McKenzie in 2003.Amanda Edwards (Getty Images)Following his breakout role in 'The O.C.,' Benjamin McKenzie remained with the show until its cancellation. He then took on an “old-fashioned” persona, as 'The New York Times' described, portraying characters with vintage gravitas: first as an LAPD officer in the gritty series 'Southland,' and later as a young Jim Gordon in 'Gotham.' McKenzie continues to act, yet his recent focus has been on exposing the risks associated with cryptocurrencies. Surprisingly for a celebrity, he advocates from a critical standpoint, warning of the dangers and fraud risks within the crypto market. His advocacy includes Senate testimony and co-authoring 'Easy Money: Cryptocurrency, Casino Capitalism, and the Golden Age of Fraud' with journalist Jacob Silverman.
In the image, Benjamin McKenzie in 2024.Manny Carabel (Getty Images)JESSE METCALFE – Behind the charming whitewashed fences of Wisteria Lane, drama thrived amidst the suburban facade of 'Desperate Housewives.' One of the most enticing storylines was the torrid affair between Gabrielle Solis, played by Eva Longoria, and her gardener, John Rowland, portrayed by Jesse Metcalfe. Metcalfe, now 45, quickly became the show’s heartthrob, earning the title of “the hottest sex symbol” from 'USA Today' during its debut season. Interestingly, his path to the role was unconventional; after producers initially found their first choice lacking in appeal, Metcalfe stepped in for the re-audition.
In the picture, Jesse Metcalfe in 2000.Ron Davis (Getty Images)After the success of 'Desperate Housewives,' Jesse Metcalfe starred as the son of Bobby and Pamela Ewing in the reboot of the iconic series 'Dallas,' which ran for three seasons. In 2008, he announced plans to direct his first film, intending to share his personal experiences with addiction and rehabilitation. However, the project was ultimately shelved due to financing issues. Following a quieter stint in low-budget action films, Metcalfe found a niche in family-friendly programming on the Hallmark Channel and in Christian cinema, where he has continued to work consistently.
In the picture, Jesse Metcalfe in 2024.Variety (Variety via Getty Images)ADRIAN GRENIER – Before 'Entourage,' Adrian Grenier, 48, had made a name for himself in teen classics like 'Drive Me Crazy' alongside Melissa Joan Hart, but it was his portrayal of Vincent Chase that truly catapulted him into the spotlight. In 'Entourage,' he played a movie star navigating the chaotic waters of Hollywood alongside his dysfunctional group of friends. The HBO series was not only a comedy, but also a revealing look at the entertainment industry, offering insights that many viewers would later recognize as precursors to the #MeToo movement.
In the picture, Adrian Grenier in 1999.Ron Galella (Ron Galella Collection via Getty)While Vincent Chase's talent propelled him to success at Sundance and the box office, Adrian Grenier did not experience the same fortune in his acting career. This was unexpected, given his collaborations with renowned directors like Woody Allen, John Waters, and Steven Spielberg prior to 'Entourage.' Although his role in the hit film 'The Devil Wears Prada' hinted at a potential career boost, after the series concluded, Grenier struggled to find significant roles.
Outside of acting, he has ventured into producing documentaries and maintains an intermittent music career. Additionally, as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme, Grenier is actively involved in raising awareness about reducing single-use plastics and protecting marine life.
In the picture, Adrian Grenier in 2023.Rodin Eckenroth (Getty Images)IAN SOMERHALDER – The actor first captured attention in the cultural phenomenon 'Lost,' where he portrayed Boone Carlyle — the first major character to die in the series and arguably the least mourned. However, it was his role as the charmingly troubled vampire Damon Salvatore in The CW series 'The Vampire Diaries' that truly catapulted him into teen stardom. Created by Kevin Williamson and based on L.J. Smith's novels, the series quickly became the most-watched show on The CW, consistently dominating the People's Choice and Teen Choice Awards.
In the picture, Ian Somerhalder in 2000.Robin Platzer/Twin Images (Getty Images)His film career has been somewhat discreet, though Ian Somerhalder demonstrated an early willingness to take risks uncommon among young stars. He starred alongside James Van Der Beek in the controversial film 'The Rules of Attraction,' Roger Avary's adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis's novel, where he played a bisexual character in love with his best friend. Somerhalder began his journey in the entertainment industry at just 10 years old, working as a model for Eileen Ford. By sixteen, he was featured in 'l'Uomo Vogue,' photographed by Steven Meisel, and became the face of Versace.
However, after the failure of his Netflix series 'V-Wars,' a new foray into the vampire genre that lasted only one season, Somerhalder shifted his focus. He began dedicating more time to behind-the-scenes work, particularly in producing documentaries centered on sustainable agriculture — one of his passions — along with advocating for environmental protection and animal adoption. At the beginning of 2024, he announced that he had definitively retired from acting.
In the picture, Ian Somerhalder in 2024.Steve Granitz (FilmMagic)DAVID BOREANAZ – 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' can be considered, alongside 'Gilmore Girls,' one of the cult teen series par excellence. David Boreanaz, 55, had the honor of portraying one of its most charismatic characters: the dark and mysterious Angel, a cursed vampire who battles his nature while captivating the protagonist. His role was so successful that it spawned a spin-off centered around him, which aired for five seasons. The love triangle involving Buffy, Angel, and Spike continues to spark heated discussions among fans.
In the picture, David Boreanaz in 1997.
Jim Smeal (Ron Galella Collection via Getty)In films, Boreanaz has not achieved much success, with his only memorable role coming in 'Valentine.' However, television has always embraced him. After 'Angel,' he quickly found a new niche as FBI special agent Seeley Booth, the loyal partner and love interest of the cool Temperance Brennan in 'Bones,' a role he held for 12 seasons. Following the conclusion of 'Bones,' he transitioned to 'SEAL Team,' a Paramount military drama that is set to conclude this year after seven series.
In the picture, David Boreanaz in 2024.Stephane Cardinale - Corbis (Corbis via Getty Images)SCOTT SPEEDMAN – On paper, Scott Speedman, 49, faced a complex challenge in playing one of the main protagonists of 'Felicity.' His character, Ben Covington, was pivotal in transforming the ethereal and hesitant Felicity Porter, leading her to change her life and move to New York after a nondescript message he wrote in her yearbook. The series, which catapulted J.J. Abrams into fame, relied heavily on the chemistry within its central love triangle. With his striking looks, Speedman not only captured Felicity's heart but also won over a legion of fans.
In the picture, Scott Speedman in 1998.Ron Galella (Ron Galella Collection via Getty)When a neck injury cut short his career as a professional swimmer, Scott Speedman decided to turn to acting—and he hasn’t done badly at all. After 'Felicity,' he starred as Sarah Polley's husband in Isabel Coixet's poignant film My Life Without Me, took on roles in the 'Underworld' franchise, and co-starred with Gwyneth Paltrow in 'Duets.' In recent years, he has made a return to television, first as the leader of the brutal Cody family in 'Animal Kingdom' and now as a romantic interest in the expansive 'Grey's Anatomy' universe, playing opposite Meredith.
Pictured, Scott Speedman in 2024.Vivien Killilea (Getty Images for IMDb)JAMES FRANCO – When we talk about cult series, 'Freaks and Geeks' is usually at the top of the list, often mentioned alongside conversations about unfairly canceled shows or NBC's biggest mistakes. The Judd Apatow-produced series follows a group of McKinley High students, featuring a talented ensemble that includes Jason Segel, Linda Cardellini, and James Franco. Franco, 46, portrayed the rebellious and misfit Daniel Desario. Despite the show's brief run, his portrayal of a quintessential teen rebel left a lasting impression on viewers.
Pictured, James Franco in 1999.NBC (NBCUniversal via Getty Images)James Franco debuted on the big screen in the teen classic 'Never Been Kissed' and has since starred in blockbusters, including his role as Harry Osborn in Sam Raimi's 'Spider-Man.' He also gained recognition in independent film gems like 'Howl,' where he portrayed Allen Ginsberg, and 'Spring Breakers,' directed by the unconventional Harmony Korine. Franco received an Oscar nomination for '127 Hours' and won a Golden Globe for his portrayal of James Dean.
In addition to his successful acting career, Franco has also made a mark behind the camera. His directorial effort, 'The Disaster Artist,' which he co-produced and starred in, was one of the most relevant films of 2018 and earned a nomination for Best Original Screenplay. He has dabbled in modeling and written critically acclaimed novels.
However, not all aspects of Franco's life have been positive.
Since 2018, a series of sexual misconduct allegations have surfaced, resulting in a $2 million settlement and his admission to seeking treatment for sexual addiction.
Pictured, James Franco in 2022.Daniele Venturelli (Daniele Venturelli / Getty Image)TAYLOR KITSCH – The first thing you think of when you hear 'Friday Night Lights' is: “Clear Eyes, Full Hearts.” After recalling the Dillon Panthers' motto, it's hard not to pine for Tim Riggins, the team's troubled yet charismatic leader. This tough guy, played by Taylor Kitsch, 43, is a character marked by a difficult family situation and complicated feeling for his best friend's girlfriend.
Pictured, Kitsch in 2006.NBC (NBCUniversal via Getty Images)Few actors have had more opportunities to succeed, but luck seems to be against the Canadian Taylor Kitsch. He starred in 'John Carter,' one of Disney's biggest economic disasters, and also faced disappointment with 'Battleship.' Kitsch was even part of what is likely the worst film in the X-Men saga, 'Origins: Wolverine,' where he portrayed Gambit.
While his big film projects have often flopped, his first major television role after 'Friday Night Lights' didn’t fare much better; he was in the second season of 'True Detective,' which left many viewers confused. Recently, he appeared in 'The Terminal List' and has several projects in the pipeline.
Pictured, Kitsch in 2024.Kevin Mazur (Getty Images for Critics Choice)
