Here’s How Your Favorite Early 2000s Heartthrobs Have Changed Over the Years
In the early 2000s, numerous young adults devoted their attention to a specific group of heartthrobs. Although these individuals have since matured and aged, they might still hold a special place in their hearts for these actors. If this resonates with you, you might sometimes find yourself curious about where your crush is today and how they’ve changed. Here’s an update on what your favorite early 2000s heartthrobs look like now!
Patrick Dempsey – Then
Patrick had been established in the industry before making a notable return in several mainstream films during the early 2000s. He reappeared in movies such as Sweet Home Alabama and Scream 3, paving the way for even more significant roles.
In 2005, ABC launched a series that would engage fans by exploring the lives of Seattle hospital doctors for over ten years. It was on Grey’s Anatomy that Dempsey truly captured many hearts as Derek Shepherd, also known as McDreamy.
Patrick Dempsey – Now
Dempsey departed from his memorable role as Dr. Derek Shepherd on Grey’s Anatomy in 2015. Now 54 years old, he sought new roles to further challenge his acting talents, finding opportunities across various television series.
He secured a role in The Truth About the Harry Quebert Affair and is involved in an upcoming project titled Devils. Additionally, it has been announced that he will reprise his role on Grey’s Anatomy in its final season.
Tyrese Gibson – Then
Like many aspiring artists, Tyrese Gibson gradually transitioned from a successful music career to acting. In 2001, he made a significant impact with his debut film, Baby Boy.
After receiving numerous positive reviews for his performance, he was quickly offered a variety of other roles. Perhaps his most famous characters are Roma Pearce in 2 Fast 2 Furious and Sergeant Epps in Transformers 2.
Tyrese Gibson – Now
Today, Tyrese is a key figure in one of Hollywood’s biggest franchises – the The Fast and the Furious series. He has reprised his role in five films of the franchise and, at 41 years old, is set to join the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Although he still dabbles in music, his acting career has kept him occupied. He is set to star in the next The Fast and the Furious film as well as Marvel’s standalone movie Morbius.
Jared Padalecki – Then
Our first introduction to Jared was through the highly popular show, Gilmore Girls. His popularity on that series opened doors to various roles, including a starring role in House of Wax.
During that period, he continued his role on Gilmore Girls — a character he ultimately portrayed for seven years, two of which overlapped with his starring role on Supernatural.
Jared Padalecki – Now
Supernatural became Jared’s main focus for 15 years, with the show concluding just last year. Throughout this time, he also worked in films, though his primary commitment was to the hit WB series.
Following the show’s conclusion, he quickly secured his next role, joining the new iteration of Walker.
Zac Efron – Then
Like many early 2000s stars, Zac Efron rose to fame through his collaboration with Disney. He portrayed Troy Bolton in the High School Musical films, becoming a beloved heartthrob.
It was evident that this attractive young man was talented, and it didn’t take long for him to leverage his newfound popularity to land major acting projects, including 17 Again.
Zac Efron – Now
Zac has continued to enhance his skills and expand his fame over the past decade. He has remained true to his musical beginnings, starring in the musical drama The Greatest Showman, while also receiving acclaim for his performances in more dramatic roles.
Recently, he has received critical acclaim for his role as serial killer Ted Bundy. He has also hosted a traveling show for Netflix and is set to star in a movie alongside Jessica Alba.
Orlando Bloom – Then
Starting strong, young Orlando Bloom landed roles in two of the early 2000s’ biggest franchises — The Lord of the Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean. With his distinctive accent and charming good looks, it’s easy to see why he won so many fans.
Of the two roles, his portrayal of young Will Turner in Pirates of the Caribbean likely cemented his charming smirk and twinkling eyes in the hearts of millions.
Orlando Bloom – Now
Over the past decade, Orlando has taken on numerous impressive roles. Currently, he has stepped away from major film projects to star in a successful Amazon series.
