Ian Somerhalder American actor. Date of Birth: 08.12.1978 Country: USA

1. Ian Somerhalder's Early Life and Modeling Career
2. Transition to Acting and Early Roles
3. Television and Film Success
4. Breakthrough with "Lost"
5. Post-"Lost" Career and Personal Life

Ian Somerhalder's Early Life and Modeling Career

Ian Somerhalder was born on December 8, 1978, in Covington, Louisiana. His family moved to the small coastal town of Mandeville, where he grew up alongside his older siblings, Robin and Bob. Somerhalder's childhood was filled with outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, horseback riding, and sailing.

At the age of 10, Ian entered the modeling world with the help of his mother. He spent summers traveling to New York City for modeling shoots, working with agencies such as Click, Next, and Arlene Wilson. By his late teens, he had ventured into Europe, modeling in Paris, Milan, and London for brands like Guess, Versace, Dolce & Gabbana, and Gucci.

Transition to Acting and Early Roles

In his late teens, Somerhalder decided to pursue acting and moved to New York City. He studied under renowned acting coach William Esper, Davenia McFadden, and Anthony Abeson. Despite having small, unedited roles in "Black & White" and Woody Allen's "Celebrity," Ian's breakout came with the 1999 television series "Now and Again."

Television and Film Success

Somerhalder's breakthrough role was in the short-lived but critically acclaimed series "Young Americans." He also made guest appearances on shows like "CSI," "CSI: Miami," "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," and "Smallville." In 2001, he earned a Young Hollywood Award for his role in the film "Life as a House."

In 2002, Somerhalder gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Paul Denton in the film adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis's novel "The Rules of Attraction." The film's success propelled him into the ranks of Hollywood's rising stars.

Breakthrough with "Lost"

In 2004, Somerhalder was cast in the hit television series "Lost." He played the role of Boone Carlyle, a trust-fund kid stranded on a mysterious island. Despite the character's early demise, Somerhalder's performance brought him critical acclaim and solidified his status as a leading man.

Post-"Lost" Career and Personal Life

After leaving "Lost," Somerhalder appeared in several films, including "Pulse" (2006), "Marco Polo" (2006), and "The Vampire Diaries" (2009-2017). He has also had recurring roles on television shows like "The Vampire Diaries" spin-off "The Originals" and Netflix's "V-Wars."

Somerhalder has had several high-profile relationships, including with actresses Nikki Hilton, Maggie Grace, and Nina Dobrev. In 2015, he married model and actress Nikki Reed.