Young actor Jeremy Sumpter made a striking entrance into Hollywood at the dawn of the 21st century, delivering standout performances in two very different films: the intense father-son thriller Frailty and the visually stunning adaptation of the beloved children’s tale Peter Pan. With these roles, released in 2001 and 2003 respectively, it seemed as though Jeremy Sumpter was destined for lasting fame in the film world. However, it was actually on television where Jeremy Sumpter found his strongest footing.
He took on the leading role in the short-lived CBS series Clubhouse, a comedy-drama centered around a teenager living out his dream working with a major league baseball team in New York. Following that, Jeremy Sumpter starred in the provocative Lifetime television film Cyber Seduction: His Secret Life, which led to a pivotal role in the critically acclaimed Friday night staple Friday Night Lights. In the show, Jeremy Sumpter played J.D. McCoy, a character that introduced him to an entirely new audience—just as he was entering his twenties.
The success Jeremy Sumpter experienced on television opened the door to fresh opportunities in film, starting with his role in the 2011 inspirational drama Soul Surfer. The movie tells the real-life story of Bethany Hamilton, a young surfer who bravely overcame a life-changing shark attack that cost her an arm.
When it comes to Jeremy Sumpter’s filmography, one standout in terms of critical reception is Excision (2012), which happens to be his highest-rated movie. Fans and critics alike have pointed to this dark thriller as a strong point in Jeremy Sumpter’s career, showcasing his range as an actor. On the other end of the spectrum, Jeremy Sumpter’s lowest-rated film to date is The Squeeze (2015), a golf-centered drama that didn’t quite resonate with audiences or reviewers. While Jeremy Sumpter has taken on a variety of roles over the years, these two films mark the high and low points in terms of ratings. Still, Jeremy Sumpter continues to build his portfolio with diverse projects, keeping fans interested in what he’ll do next.