The actor best known for portraying Dalton Joiner in the 2013 romantic drama Love and Honor has certainly made a name for himself in Hollywood. That same actor, yes, the one you’re thinking of, also brought Kyle Connellan to life in both Dolphin Tale and its sequel, Dolphin Tale 2, earning praise for his heartfelt performances. Around 2019, he took on a major role in Hulu’s adaptation of Catch-22, further showcasing his range and solidifying his presence on screen.
Before all the fame and red carpet moments, this actor worked hard to build his foundation—graduating with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2007 from the University of Connecticut. Coming from a humble background, his father worked as a steelworker while his mother dedicated her career to teaching, values that clearly shaped the actor’s grounded personality.
On the personal side, fans may recall that in 2015, he began a high-profile relationship with actress Nina Dobrev. Though the two seemed like a strong couple, they eventually parted ways in early 2016. Still, through every chapter—whether on set or off—the actor continues to evolve, staying true to his craft and steadily building an impressive body of work.
He portrayed Jesse during the 2009 season of The Secret Life of the American Teenager, and his performance really stood out. He brought a lot of depth to the character, making Jesse someone viewers couldn’t easily forget. Over the course of that season, he developed Jesse into a complex figure, navigating teenage challenges with both vulnerability and strength. His portrayal of Jesse added a unique layer to the show’s dynamic, and fans often recall how impactful he was in shaping the storylines. Definitely, he made Jesse a memorable part of the series, especially throughout 2007.