The 2000s were filled with heartthrobs and icons who ruled the entertainment industry. Whether they were on television, in movies, or making waves in the music industry, these celebrities became the ultimate crushes for an entire generation. Let’s take a look at where they started and how their lives have changed over time.
1. Tom Welling from Smallville
Tom Welling gained worldwide fame playing Clark Kent in Smallville. His portrayal of Superman’s early years made him a household name. After Smallville ended, he continued acting and even ventured into directing. His recent work includes roles in Lucifer and The Winchesters.
2. Jonathan Bennett from Mean Girls
Jonathan Bennett played the charming Aaron Samuels in Mean Girls, making him a teen sensation. Since then, he has appeared in multiple Hallmark movies and reality TV shows. He also became an LGBTQ+ advocate and married Jaymes Vaughan in 2022.
3. Chad Michael Murray from Freaky Friday
Chad Michael Murray starred in Freaky Friday, One Tree Hill, and A Cinderella Story, making him one of the biggest teen idols of the era. He still acts in TV series and films, including Riverdale and Fortress.
4. Raven-Symoné from That’s So Raven
Raven-Symoné was a Disney Channel icon with her role in That’s So Raven. She has since continued acting, hosting talk shows, and even reprising her role in Raven’s Home.
5. Josh Hartnett from Lucky Number Slevin
Josh Hartnett was a heartthrob with roles in Pearl Harbor and Lucky Number Slevin. After stepping away from Hollywood for a while, he made a return with projects like Penny Dreadful and Oppenheimer.
6. Justin Timberlake from ‘N Sync
Justin Timberlake transitioned from boy band fame with ‘N Sync to a successful solo career. He remains a major music star and has expanded into acting, starring in films like The Social Network and Palmer.
7. Adam Brody from The O.C.
Adam Brody stole hearts as Seth Cohen in The O.C.. He has continued acting in movies and TV shows, with recent roles in Shazam! and Fleishman Is in Trouble.
8. Ashton Kutcher from That ’70s Show
Ashton Kutcher made a name for himself as Kelso in That ‘70s Show. He went on to star in films and TV shows, invest in startups, and work on humanitarian efforts. He recently returned for That ‘90s Show.
9. Hilary Duff from A Cinderella Story
Hilary Duff was a Disney sweetheart and teen rom-com queen. She has since continued acting, singing, and writing. Her latest projects include How I Met Your Father.
10. Jesse McCartney from Keith
Jesse McCartney was both an actor and a pop singer, best known for songs like Beautiful Soul. He still makes music and performs live while doing voice work for animated projects.
11. Hayden Panettiere from Heroes
Hayden Panettiere was a breakout star in Heroes and later in Nashville. After taking a break, she returned to acting with Scream VI.
12. Brandon Flowers from The Killers
Brandon Flowers became a rock icon with The Killers. He continues making music, performing worldwide, and releasing albums.
13. Phoebe Tonkin from H2O: Just Add Water
Phoebe Tonkin gained fame in H2O: Just Add Water before moving on to The Originals. She is now a successful actress and model.
14. Sean Faris from Never Back Down
Sean Faris was a rising action star with Never Back Down. Though he isn’t as active in Hollywood, he still takes on occasional acting roles.
15. Cillian Murphy from 28 Days Later
Cillian Murphy has gone from cult horror films to leading roles in Peaky Blinders and Oppenheimer, proving his versatility.
16. Corbin Bleu from High School Musical
Corbin Bleu was a standout in High School Musical. He has since appeared in Broadway productions and television shows.
17. Hugh Dancy from Ella Enchanted
Hugh Dancy played charming roles in films like Ella Enchanted. He is now known for Hannibal and Law & Order: Organized Crime.
18. Jennifer Connelly from Hulk
Jennifer Connelly has had a consistent career, starring in films like A Beautiful Mind and Top Gun: Maverick.
19. David Henrie from Wizards of Waverly Place
David Henrie was a Disney Channel favorite. He has since moved into directing and acting in faith-based films.
20. Luke Mitchell from H2O: Just Add Water
Luke Mitchell transitioned from H2O to major TV dramas like Blindspot and Big Sky.
21. Jena Malone from Life as a House
Jena Malone was a popular young actress who went on to appear in The Hunger Games series.
22. Eka Darville from Power Rangers RPM
Eka Darville later starred in Jessica Jones and remains active in Hollywood.
23. Alex Pettyfer from Stormbreaker
Alex Pettyfer was a rising teen star and continues acting, with recent roles in The Offer.
24. Lachlan Buchanan from Blue Water High
Lachlan Buchanan moved from Australian television to Hollywood, appearing in Dynasty.
25. Cody Linley from Hannah Montana
Cody Linley was a Hannah Montana favorite. He continues acting and has worked as a musician.
26. Mary Elizabeth Winstead from Final Destination 3
Mary Elizabeth Winstead became an action star in films like Birds of Prey and Ahsoka.
27. Milo Ventimiglia from Gilmore Girls
Milo Ventimiglia went from Gilmore Girls to This Is Us, proving his lasting appeal.
28. Wentworth Miller from Prison Break
Wentworth Miller became a major name with Prison Break and later starred in The Flash.
29. Elisha Cuthbert from The Girl Next Door
Elisha Cuthbert was a beloved actress in The Girl Next Door and later appeared in The Ranch.
30. Ben Barnes from The Chronicles of Narnia
Ben Barnes moved from Narnia to acclaimed roles in Westworld and Shadow and Bone.
Final Thoughts
The celebrities who dominated the screens in the 2000s continue to leave a mark in entertainment. Some have transitioned into different careers, while others are still making waves in Hollywood. Regardless of where they are now, they will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up watching them.
