Ian Somerhalder: biography, personal life / Actors

From model to actor

Not only his appearance, but also his extraordinary talent became the reason for the incredible popularity of the young man. Today he appears more and more often in new projects, trying not to remain an actor of one role. It all started in the small town of Covington, Louisiana. The mother of the future star came there to give birth. After all, in the city where the family lived there was not even a maternity hospital.

Ian Joseph Somerhalder was born on December 8, 1978, his mother worked as a masseuse, his father was a contractor (builder). The Somerhalders are of Indian, English, Irish and French descent. He was named in honor of the writer Ian Fleming, author of the James Bond novels. The older sister's name is Robin, the younger brother's name is Bob. Both received their names in honor of the father of the family, Robert. Mother Edna is Irish by birth and there are also Indians in her family.

As a child, the boy learned to fish, ride a horse and everything else that villagers can do. Ian recalls that he and his brothers had everything they needed, despite the fact that their parents were not rich.

Friends told his mother that the baby’s attractive appearance would be in demand in the modeling business. And Edna did not miss the chance. “My mother took all her savings to rent an apartment in New York for three summers,” Ian recalls. The idea seemed truly crazy, but at the age of 11 he already signed a 3-year contract with one of the major modeling agencies. The boy earned more than people with doctorates. And at the age of 16, he was ruined by agents who took all the profits for their fees. But it was a valuable experience.

Soon the talented teenager was lucky enough to find a good personal agent. Brenda Netzberger took him under her wing and his modeling career took off. The handsome young man starred in advertising and participated in shows of the most famous fashion houses: Gucci, Calvin Klein, Versace, Persol, Esprit, Dolce & Gabbana.

In 1995-1998, the young man began to make excellent money, constantly traveling between European capitals. Although the modeling business brought good income, it did not give the young man moral satisfaction.

He wanted more, so in parallel with the shows he managed to study in a drama club.

Biography of Ian Somerhalder

Ian's homeland is the provincial American town of Covington, Louisiana, where he was born on December 8, 1978. A lot of blood was mixed in the boy’s veins: Irish, French, English, American and even Indian. Perhaps it was this cocktail that became the reason for the actor’s unusually bright and attractive appearance.

When Ian's family moved to Mandeville, the ten-year-old boy began a successful modeling career in New York, where he regularly traveled for photo shoots. Later he traveled all over Europe, participating in fashion shows in Milan, Paris and London. Even the young man’s relatively small stature did not become an obstacle to his successful collaboration with the best brands around the world: Versace, Gucci, Calvin Klein, Esprit and many others.

Already in his adolescence, Ian began to seriously think about working in films, and when the modeling contract expired, the 17-year-old boy did not renew it, but immediately went to New York to study acting. Later, he tried not to mention his past as a model because he believed that he would not be taken seriously.

Somerhalder's first film debut was the film "Black & White", after which the aspiring actor was immediately invited to shoot the film "Celebrity", but all the episodes with his participation were cut out.

The film “Young Americans” became a serious work in cinema, thanks to which everyone learned about Somerhalder. Over the next few years, the young actor was invited to appear in TV series, but they did not bring him the long-awaited recognition of the public.

The turning point came in 2004, when Ian took part in the filming of the cult TV series Lost. They began to recognize him on the street, and the first fans appeared. Upon completion of the project, many directors paid attention to the talented, handsome guy and began inviting Ian Somerhalder to their films. This is how the paintings “Sensation of Vision” and “Tournament for Survival” appeared.

However, real success came to the young actor after the release of the series “The Vampire Diaries”, in which he played a negative character - a daring, cruel, contradictory and incredibly sexy vampire. Despite the pronounced negative image, his character became incredibly popular, girls all over the world literally went crazy for Ian.

The actor managed to play the dangerous tempter Damon so convincingly that he even received the prestigious Teen Choice Awards in the category “Best Villain.”

Having starred in seven seasons of the popular series, Ian said that the eighth will be his last. The creators have not yet decided whether they will continue filming after the departure of the much-loved actor or close the project.

Ian Somerhalder managed to star in one of the main roles in the fantasy film “Anomaly”. With this film, the actor further consolidated his success: crowds of fans continue to shower their idol with postcards, letters, cute gifts and endless declarations of love.

Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder are having problems in their marriage again because of the actor's ex-lover, Nina Dobrev. Somerhalder's wife is furious: Nina Dobrev is returning to the TV series "The Vampire Diaries"

As a result, the on-screen romance of Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev began in life. Somerhalder's wife is furious: Nina Dobrev returns to the TV series “The Vampire Diaries”

Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev continued to communicate after breaking up in 2013 Somerhalder's wife is furious: Nina Dobrev is returning to the series "The Vampire Diaries" Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev Somerhalder's wife is furious: Nina Dobrev is returning to the series "The Vampire Diaries" Nikki Reed is very jealous husband to his former friend, Nina Dobrev Somerhalder's wife is furious: Nina Dobrev returns to the series "The Vampire Diaries" Ian Somerhalder Somerhalder's wife is furious: Nina Dobrev returns to the series "The Vampire Diaries" Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder invited only their closest friends to the wedding and relatives The first official photos from the wedding of Reed and Somerhalder The romance of Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed developed so rapidly that the couple decided to get married six months after the start of the relationship The first official photos from the wedding of Reed and Somerhalder Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder The first official photos from the wedding of Reed and Somerhalder Somerhalder

Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder wanted their wedding to be fun The first official photos from Reed and Somerhalder's wedding

Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder even before the wedding began to think about children The first official photos from the wedding of Reed and Somerhalder Immediately after the wedding, Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder went on a honeymoon to Brazil The first official photos from the wedding of Reed and Somerhalder Nikki Reed and Ian Somerhalder showed wedding photos 4 months after the wedding The first official photos from the wedding of Reed and Somerhalder Nina starred in the series for 6 years. In the photo: with co-stars Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley, Nina Dobrev is leaving The Vampire Diaries

While filming Diaries, Nina had a classic on-set passionate affair. Dobrev and Somerhalder have been dating since 2011. The actors broke up several times and then got back together. The final breakup occurred in 2013. Nina Dobrev leaves The Vampire Diaries

Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev in the series "The Vampire Diaries" Nina Dobrev leaves "The Vampire Diaries" Ian Somerhalder, Nina Dobrev and Paul Wesley Nina Dobrev leaves "The Vampire Diaries"

Ian Somerhalder proposed to Nikki Reed! Officially! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged. Ian asked Nikki to become his wife... Officially! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged...but then their relationship took it to the next level It's official! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged

The couple moved in together three weeks after their romance began. It's official! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged

Before their romantic relationship, the actors had been friends for a long time... Officially! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged

...and the girl happily agreed! Officially! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged According to a friend of the couple, Somerhalder and Reed are madly in love with each other It's official! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged It's hard to believe that the famous heartthrob Ian Somerhalder will soon become a married man! Officially! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged

The couple celebrated the New Year together Officially! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged

The lovers decided to get married after 6 months of romance. It’s official! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged

On his Instagram, Ian wrote that 2014 was a special year. Obviously, he proposed to his beloved last year! Officially! Ian Somerhalder and Nikki Reed are engaged

Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev Like ice! Dobrev failed to seduce Somerhalder with a plunging neckline at PaleyFest

Nina has known Derek for a long time. She celebrated her 24th birthday with him in January of this year, when she was still with Ian. Nina Dobrev has a new boyfriend!

“I take out a duplicate of the priceless cargo from my wide trousers! Look, envy me, I’m a citizen...": Ian Somerhalder followed in the footsteps of Vladimir Mayakovsky Stars on Instagram: the best pictures of the week

Another variation on the theme of the secret of successful photos - Ian Somerhalder and a cute puppy Stars on Instagram: the best photos of the week Shannon Hess Richardson and Ian Somerhalder. The actress played the role in an episode of the popular series The actress from the series “The Vampire Diaries” wanted to poison President Obama

You can endlessly look at three things: fire, water and Ian Somerhalder, concentrating on photographing himself in the mirror. Stars on Instagram: the best photos of the week. I’m like George Clooney in the movie “Up in the Air.” I never check luggage. I only have carry-on luggage and a blindfold, earplugs, a large pillow and a blanket. I can fall asleep in the most uncomfortable position, and during sleep I can throw my legs over... Nina Dobrev: “Abs? No, it’s not for me” Ian Somerhalder Alba and Somerhalder for natural beauty Ian Somerhalder (33 years old, actor) The star of the TV series “The Vampire Diaries” captivated his colleague Nina Dobrev. And you? Choosing the sexiest man

Ian Somerhalder Before becoming the star of the TV series “The Vampire Diaries” and “Lost,” Ian starred in small episodes, which were then successfully... cut out of the films during editing. This did not stop the future vampire-villain: he... Stars with a modeling past: from J. Lo to Robert Pattinson Ian Somerhalder “The Vampire Diaries” brought together ex-lovers Dobrev and Somerhalder again

There, on the set, Nina found her first love - for three years the actress dated her partner in the series, 34-year-old actor Ian Somerhalder (center) Ours in Hollywood: Mila Kunis and 3 other actresses with Slavic roots Ian Somerhalder Teen Choice Awards 2013: Teen idols named

Ian Sommerhalder Nina Dobrev, Justin Theroux and Ian Sommerhalder gave money to children Ian Sommerhalder shamelessly feasted on Godiva's elite chocolate Parties after the Oscars: Lopez came with Smart, and Portman with a ring Ian Sommerhalder Elton John's party: everyone who didn't make it to " Oscar"

Ian Somerhalder was photographed in front of a movie poster Star Twitter: how are celebrities not ashamed to show this?

Beginning of screen career

At the age of 17, the young man decides to devote himself entirely to acting and enters the prestigious acting studio of William Esper, where many film celebrities studied - Kim Basinger, Jeff Goldbloom, Sam Rockwell and others.

An interesting fact is that Ian’s first acting experience was in Woody Allen’s film “Celebrity.” True, it was only a role in the crowd, which was later cut out. He was also not listed in the credits. But among the crowd he was noticed by an agent who signed a contract with the promising young man.

The first role on TV followed in 1999 , it was the fantasy drama “Now or Never”. This was followed by the series “Young Americans”, one of the main roles. Ian Somerhalder often got gay roles in his youth, apparently because of his attractive appearance. But the actor had nothing against it. His character Hamilton Fleming experienced homosexual attraction to one of his friends. Although the show was quickly closed, the actor continued to appear in TV series.

The rising star was noticed after appearing in the film “Rules of Sex” (2002), where he also played a gay man. The actor considers the role of Paul Denton very important in his career. In the same year, he was named one of the 50 sexiest men of the fall according to People magazine. At the same time, the guy was approved for the role of Boone in the cult TV series Lost. Millions of viewers around the world awaited the release of each new episode.

But Ian himself was not very happy with his character. According to him, the guy is nothing more than a spoiled rich kid. He had absolutely no idea about survival, didn’t know how to make fire, handle rope - nothing that a real man needs to know. Therefore, the actor decided to give the hero new features. Boone quickly adapted to his surroundings, becoming less selfish and gaining the sympathy of the audience.

Unfortunately, Boone dies in an accident in episode 20. Executive producer Damon Lindelof said that it was Boone's death that prepared fans for the finale. And it’s impossible to avoid the death of characters in such a large-scale project.

True, the audience fell in love with Boone so much that he nevertheless returned to the series several times (there were many scenes with memories, in which the young man appeared).

Happy role

A turning point in his acting biography was the role of Damon Salvatore in the series “The Vampire Diaries.” Participation in this project made the young handsome man famous throughout the world in just a matter of weeks. Paul Wesley also became famous for playing the role of Damon's younger brother, Stefan.

The vampire series lasted eight seasons. Somerhalder's character underwent significant psychological changes during this time. At first, he was a notorious villain, indifferent to the fate of his victims. By the end of the series, he became sensitive and principled, sacrificial, ready to give his life for the girl he loved.

The Vampire Diaries also greatly influenced Ian Somerhalder's personal life. He began dating the leading female role, actress Nina Dobrev. The affair lasted about two years. At first, the lovers tried to hide it, but this turned out to be impossible.

The fans were delighted and came up with a double name for the couple - Delena (Damon and Elena). With bated breath, they followed the latest news from the lives of their idols. Imagine their disappointment when it was announced that the couple Ian Somerhalder and Nina Dobrev were no more... The wedding of the two popular actors never took place. Now all that remains for fans is to look at footage from Dilena’s joint photo shoots.

The breakup of the two leading characters did not affect the success of the series . Although after some time Nina Dobrev announced that she was leaving the project. Her character was invisibly present in the plot; The Vampire Diaries lasted another two years.

Elena returned only in the final episode to logically complete the plot. By that time, her ex-boyfriend was already married.

Personal life of Ian Somerhalder

The handsome man’s personal life has always been in the public eye, especially since he gained popularity. He has many bright romances with famous and beautiful girls: Nicky Hilton, Sarah Maleitesta, Maggie Grace.

During the filming of the television series “The Vampire Diaries,” Ian began a passionate affair with his partner, the beautiful Nina Dobrev. They dated for more than a year, but the relationship gradually faded away. No one understood why such a harmonious and beautiful couple broke up, because they never had a row or sorted things out.

However, after the separation of the main actors, the atmosphere on the set changed for the worse: the former lovers constantly avoided each other. As a result, Nina, unable to bear it, decided to leave the series.

After breaking up with Dobrev, Somerhalder began a relationship with actress Nikki Reed. No one had any idea how serious their romance was until the actor surprised his fans with a Twitter message about his wedding to Nikki in April 2020.

This event was unexpected for everyone; the first version of what was happening was the assumption that Nikki was pregnant. For several months, the actress was under close surveillance by the press and fans of the actor, but it soon became clear that the wedding was played solely out of great love. And the newlyweds confirm this: despite their incredibly busy work schedule, they always manage to find time for each other.

The couple is connected not only by passion, but also by warm friendly relations and complete mutual understanding. Together they are raising several animals adopted from the shelter, but their plans are to have their own children.

Stormy personal life

Many could envy how popular the man is with the fair half of humanity. Ian had many affairs. This is not surprising, because in addition to his outstanding appearance, he has charisma and an excellent physique. Here are just some of his novels:

Sara Maleitesta's first long-term romance. The designer girl captivated Ian so much that he was even ready to become a vegetarian. But both lovers were very busy building a career. So much so that there was no time left for feelings. Therefore, the young people decided to separate.
Maggie Grace, a long-legged blonde, was Ian's partner on the set of the TV series Lost. A romance began between the actors, which they tried to hide. But soon everything became known. The relationship lasted several months. Maggie told reporters that she is delighted with her ex, but is not yet ready for a serious relationship.
Nina Dobrev - the reason for the breakup between the lovers was not officially announced. There were rumors that Ian proposed to Nina, which she refused. The actor wanted to have children and a family, but the girl was not ready to give up her career. After the breakup, the situation on the set became so tense that the writers had to change scenes just to force the couple to meet on camera.
Nikki Reed - very soon the handsome man began dating Nikki Reed. She is also an actress, but the most interesting thing is that the couple met through Nina, who was friends with Nikki. Somewhat later, the actresses tried to show that they were still best friends, but few believed in their sincerity. A year after the start of the relationship, the couple got married.

In fact, Somerhalder's list of victories is much longer . We must give him his due - he proposed marriage to many of his girlfriends, trying to start a family and have children. And now his dreams came true. Today, the handsome man is bound by family ties. Ian Somerhalder feels great with his daughter and wife - he is loved and has finally become a father.

The family tries not to separate. Even when not filming, Ian takes his daughter and wife with him. He is proud that his wife finds hobbies outside of the home. For example, Nikki Reed released a collection of eco-friendly accessories, and jewelry made from recycled motherboards.

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Professional achievements

Ian's filmography is impressive. He managed to work in many interesting projects.

Tries to avoid monotonous roles and tries on different roles:

“Life is like a House” (2001) - drama by American director Irvia Winkler. The main character (Kevin Kline) is trying to restore relations with his family. Ian has a supporting role.
Smallville is a TV series about Superman's youth. Small role by Adam Knight. The actor appears in seven episodes of the third season.
“Marco Polo” (2007) - the main role of a merchant and traveler. The TV movie focuses on Marco's trip to China.
“Tournament of Survival” (2009) - action film by Scott Mann. Every year there is a tournament between brutal killers. There are 30 participants, but there is only one winner. The progress of the “battle” is watched by players who place large bets.
“Caught on Tape” (2013) - musical action-drama, the role of a police officer. The bank robbery is accidentally recorded on tape, and this is the main evidence. There are no ordinary conversations in the film; all the actors read hip-hop over the music.

The latest work, “V War” (“Vampire War”), is a new series from Netflix, where the handsome man has the main role.

Filming took place in Canada and was completed in 2020. The story is based on printed anthologies edited by Jonathan Mayberry. The planned release date is 2020, more precise information is not yet available.