Dean McDermott has often been seen as the classic Hollywood romantic lead—tall, blue-eyed, and possessing a naturally likable charm. During the mid-1990s, he was regarded as something of a screen heartthrob, appearing in over 30 films and 15 television projects. Among these, his role as Constable Turnbull on the Canadian hit series Due South (CTV, 1995–96) stood out, as did his compelling performance in Lives of Girls and Women (CBC Television, 1994). However, it was Dean’s high-profile relationship with actress Tori Spelling that truly thrust him into the spotlight. Their whirlwind romance made headlines, especially because both were still married to other people when they first met. Just a month after their initial encounter, they each separated from their previous partners, and eventually tied the knot in 2006. Capitalizing on their celebrity status, the couple launched their own reality television series, starting with Tori & Dean: Inn Love (Oxygen, 2007–08), followed by Tori & Dean: Home Sweet Hollywood (Oxygen, 2008–12). Thanks to the popularity of these shows, Dean McDermott became a familiar face in households across America, amassing a whole new fanbase along the way.
Dean McDermott’s most acclaimed movie is Open Range (2003), which stands out as his highest-rated work. On the other hand, his lowest-rated film is Irvine Welsh’s Ecstasy (2011). While Dean McDermott has been part of various projects throughout his career, these two films represent the extremes in terms of critical reception. Open Range is often praised for its strong performances and direction, whereas Irvine Welsh’s Ecstasy received a more mixed or negative response from audiences and critics alike. Dean McDermott’s role in each of these films contributed to the overall perception of the projects, for better or worse.