Ian became a household name for television drama fans after captivating audiences with his portrayal of the charming and intense Damon Salvatore in The Vampire Diaries. Prior to that breakout role, he had already made an impression as Boone Carlyle in the popular series Lost. Before rising to fame, Ian actually started working in the entertainment industry at a young age—kicking off a modeling career when he was just ten years old. He spent many summers traveling to New York for shoots, gaining early exposure to the world of media and performance.
Family has always played an important role in Ian’s life. His mother, Edna, worked as a massage therapist, while his father, Robert, built a career as a building contractor. Ian also shares a close bond with his brother, who goes by the same name as their dad—Robert.
On the personal front, Ian was once in a high-profile relationship with his Vampire Diaries co-star, Nina Dobrev, which drew attention from fans around the world. In April 2015, he took a major step forward by marrying actress Nikki Reed. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Bodhi, in 2017—a joyful milestone that brought even more happiness into Ian’s life.
Then, in January 2023, Ian and Nikki shared exciting news: they were expecting their second child together. True to their journey of growing family and love, they welcomed a baby boy in June 2023, marking another heartfelt chapter in Ian’s life both as a partner and a father. Through every phase—from teen model to beloved actor and devoted family man—Ian has continued to evolve, all while staying grounded in what matters most.
He actually took home a Screen Actors Guild Award back in 2006, thanks to his role in Lost, where he was part of the ensemble that earned the Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series honor. And speaking of milestones, on his 32nd birthday, he made a meaningful move by launching the Ian Somerhalder Foundation—a gesture that really reflects his passion for making a difference. Yeah, he’s not just known for his acting; he’s also become quite recognized for his environmental and animal advocacy work. It’s clear that he uses his platform wisely, and honestly, that’s one of the things that makes him stand out. He’s definitely built a legacy that goes beyond the screen.