Who Is Jacob Elordi?
Jacob Elordi has become one of Hollywood’s most talked-about actors in recent years. Born in Brisbane, Australia, this talented performer has captured audiences worldwide with his compelling screen presence and versatile acting skills.
At 28 years old, the Australian-born actor stands tall at 6’5″, making him literally and figuratively a standout figure in the entertainment industry. His journey from local theater productions in Brisbane to starring in major Hollywood films showcases determination and raw talent.
What makes Jacob Elordi fascinating is his ability to portray complex characters. Whether he’s playing the troubled Nate Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria or the charming Noah Flynn in The Kissing Booth series, he brings depth and authenticity to every role.
Early Life and Background
Jacob Nathaniel Elordi was born on June 26, 1997, in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Growing up in a working-class household, he developed an interest in acting during his teenage years.
He attended St Kevin’s College, Padua College and St Joseph’s College Gregory Terrace in Brisbane. His family supported his creative ambitions, though they maintained a relatively private life away from the spotlight.
His father, John Elordi, worked as a house painter and immigrated to Australia from the Basque Country when he was eight years old. His mother, Melissa, was a stay-at-home mom and school volunteer. Jacob has three older sisters and grew up in a close-knit family environment.
During his school years, Jacob participated in drama classes and local theater productions. He performed in school musicals starting at age 12, including productions of Seussical and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. These early experiences helped him develop the foundational skills that would later define his professional career.
His Australian upbringing gave him a grounded perspective that fans and colleagues often mention. Despite his current fame, he maintains connections to his roots and speaks fondly of his Brisbane childhood.
The Path to Acting
Jacob’s passion for acting deepened during his teenage years, particularly after reading Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot” in drama class at age 15. He’s stated that acting “became his church” after that transformative experience.
He initially played rugby throughout secondary school but broke a bone in his back during a match. This injury pushed him away from athletics and toward acting full-time.
At 14, he began practicing his American accent, modeling it after Vin Diesel. He also attempted modeling at his mother’s suggestion at age 15 but was told he was too tall to fit into sample clothes.
After completing high school, he attended an acting school in Melbourne. At 19, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue his Hollywood dreams, arriving with minimal savings and big ambitions.
Breakthrough Role: The Kissing Booth
Jacob Elordi’s career took a major turn in 2018 when Netflix released The Kissing Booth. The romantic comedy became an unexpected global phenomenon, introducing him to millions of viewers worldwide.
Playing Noah Flynn, the bad-boy love interest, Jacob showcased his ability to balance charm with emotional complexity. The film’s success wasn’t just about numbers, it connected with young audiences in a meaningful way.
The chemistry between Jacob and his co-star Joey King became a talking point. Their on-screen romance felt genuine, which contributed significantly to the film’s popularity. The movie spawned two sequels, released in 2020 and 2021, cementing his status as a Netflix star.
While some critics dismissed the trilogy as typical teen fare, the audience response told a different story. The Kissing Booth films collectively garnered hundreds of millions of views, making Jacob a household name among younger demographics.
Jacob has shared that while his experience with these films was a learning process, he took on the roles with the goal of gaining experience and expanding his opportunities as an actor in the United States. In a 2023 GQ interview, he reflected on his early career choices as part of his growth in the industry.
HBO’s Euphoria: A Career-Defining Performance
In 2019, Jacob Elordi took on what many consider his most challenging role: Nate Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria. This dramatic series showcased a completely different side of his acting abilities.
Nate Jacobs is a complicated character, a high school quarterback struggling with masculinity, identity and deep-seated emotional issues. The role required Jacob to explore dark psychological territories and he delivered with haunting precision.
The casting came at a crucial time. After completing The Kissing Booth, Jacob moved to Los Angeles and struggled to find work. He occasionally slept in his car and couch-surfed at friends’ houses with his visa expiring. He helped a friend film an audition for Euphoria and decided to audition himself, planning it to be his last attempt before moving back to Australia.
Working alongside Zendaya, Hunter Schafer and Sydney Sweeney, Jacob held his own in an ensemble cast of talented performers. His portrayal earned critical acclaim and sparked important conversations about toxic masculinity and mental health.
The show’s second season in 2022 further solidified his reputation as a serious actor. He wasn’t just playing a villain he was humanizing someone deeply flawed, making audiences uncomfortable while compelling them to understand his character’s motivations.
Filmography and Notable Projects
Beyond his two breakout roles, Jacob Elordi has carefully selected diverse projects that demonstrate his range. His film career includes both independent productions and major studio releases.
Major Film Roles
In 2023, Jacob starred in Priscilla, directed by Sofia Coppola. Playing Elvis Presley opposite Cailee Spaeny’s Priscilla, he took on the challenge of portraying an iconic figure with nuance and restraint. Coppola chose him partially because of his “effect on women” during their first meeting, which she found comparable to Elvis’s.
He also appeared in Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn alongside Barry Keoghan, showcasing his ability to work in ensemble casts with complex narratives. Playing Felix Catton, a wealthy and charismatic Oxford student, Jacob delivered what critics called a “star-making performance.”
His performance in Saltburn earned him a nomination for the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role. He was also nominated in the EE Rising Star category, highlighting his rapid ascent in the industry.
His 2024 film Oh, Canada, directed by Paul Schrader, demonstrated his interest in working with established auteur filmmakers. He played the younger version of Richard Gere’s character, an aging documentary filmmaker reflecting on his life.
Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein: A Milestone Achievement
In 2025, Jacob Elordi starred as the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein adaptation. The film premiered at the Venice International Film Festival on August 30, 2025 and was released in select theaters on October 17, 2025, before streaming globally on Netflix on November 7, 2025.
Working with acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro alongside Oscar Isaac (as Victor Frankenstein), Mia Goth (as Elizabeth) and Christoph Waltz represented a significant career milestone. The project also featured Andrew Garfield in early discussions, though Jacob ultimately replaced him due to scheduling conflicts from the SAG-AFTRA strikes.
Jacob’s performance as the Creature received universal critical acclaim. Critics praised his ability to bring “quiet watchfulness,” “grace and anguish,” and a “revelatory” quality to the iconic character. The film holds an 85% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers specifically highlighting his standout performance.
The role required extensive physical transformation and demanded that he convey childlike innocence alongside bitter rage. For inspiration, he turned to Japanese butoh dance and even studied his golden retriever’s movements to capture genuine innocence.
Jacob Elordi’s Acting Style and Approach
What distinguishes Jacob Elordi from other actors of his generation is his commitment to understanding his characters deeply. He’s spoken in interviews about the importance of finding humanity even in flawed individuals.
His physical presence certainly helps at 6’5″, he commands attention in any scene. However, he uses his height thoughtfully, never relying solely on physical intimidation to convey power or dominance.
Jacob has mentioned studying method acting techniques and drawing inspiration from classic Hollywood actors, particularly Heath Ledger. He stated that Ledger’s performance as the Joker in The Dark Knight was his first major inspiration to become an actor.
Directors praise his professionalism and willingness to collaborate. He’s not an actor who shows up unprepared or relies on natural charisma alone. The work he puts into character development shows on screen.
Personal Life and Relationships
Jacob Elordi’s personal life has attracted significant media attention, particularly his romantic relationships. He dated his Kissing Booth co-star Joey King from 2017 to 2018 and their real-life romance added authenticity to their on-screen chemistry.
He was rumored to have dated his Euphoria co-star Zendaya in 2019-2020, though both maintained they were just friends. Photos of them together in New York sparked considerable fan speculation.
He dated model Kaia Gerber, daughter of supermodel Cindy Crawford, from 2020 to November 2021. Their relationship became Instagram official when they dressed as Elvis and Priscilla Presley for Halloween 2020 foreshadowing his later role in Priscilla.
More recently, he was linked to influencer Olivia Jade in 2021-2022. Despite the tabloid interest, Jacob maintains relative privacy about his personal affairs and has stated that maintaining boundaries between public and private life is important to him.
Height, Physical Appearance and Public Image
Standing at 6’5″ (196 cm), Jacob Elordi’s height is often one of the first things people notice. His tall stature, combined with classic good looks, has made him a fashion industry favorite.
Interestingly, he used to lie about his height early in his career. He told GQ: “I was super nervous about telling people my height. I used to try and pass for 6’2″ or 6′ 3″ but I’m actually 6’5″.” He feared being told he was too tall to act, which had already happened when he tried modeling at 15.
He’s appeared in campaigns for major brands and regularly attends high-profile fashion events. His style leans toward classic menswear with modern touches think tailored suits, simple t-shirts and well-fitted jeans.
Beyond physical appearance, his public image is that of a thoughtful, somewhat introspective artist. He’s not particularly active on social media compared to many peers, which adds to his mystique. His Twitter account was suspended and he maintains a relatively minimal Instagram presence.
Fans appreciate his authenticity in interviews. He doesn’t give rehearsed answers or hide behind PR-speak. This genuineness has helped him build a loyal following beyond just his looks.
Awards, Recognition and Critical Reception
While Jacob Elordi hasn’t yet won major awards like an Oscar or Emmy, he’s received numerous nominations and recognition from industry organizations.
His work in Euphoria earned him a nomination for Best Actor Audience Choice Award in 2022 at various ceremonies. The role demonstrated his dramatic capabilities beyond romantic comedies.
His performance in Saltburn earned him a nomination for the BAFTA Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in 2024. He was also nominated for the EE Rising Star Award, the only BAFTA category voted on by the public.
His portrayal of the Creature in Frankenstein has been called “the performance of his career” by multiple critics. The film’s critical consensus specifically highlights his “standout performance” as bringing humanity to one of cinema’s most iconic monsters.
Critical reception of his performances has been largely positive. Reviewers frequently mention his ability to bring complexity to characters that could easily become one-dimensional stereotypes.
Industry insiders consider him a rising star with significant potential. His choices to work with directors like Sofia Coppola, Guillermo del Toro and Paul Schrader suggest strategic career planning rather than simply chasing paychecks.
Comparison: Jacob Elordi vs. Contemporary Actors
| Actor | Breakout Role | Notable Strength | Career Trajectory |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jacob Elordi | Euphoria/Kissing Booth | Emotional complexity | Transitioning to prestige films |
| Timothée Chalamet | Call Me By Your Name | Sensitivity and vulnerability | A-list leading man |
| Austin Butler | Elvis | Transformative performances | Post-biopic stardom |
| Barry Keoghan | The Banshees of Inisheer | Unpredictable intensity | Character actor path |
| Paul Mescal | Normal People | Quiet authenticity | Stage and screen balance |
This comparison shows how Jacob Elordi fits within his generation of actors. Each brings unique strengths but Jacob’s combination of commercial appeal and artistic ambition sets him apart.
Working with Visionary Directors
Jacob’s recent career choices demonstrate a clear interest in collaborating with auteur filmmakers. Sofia Coppola’s Priscilla allowed him to explore restraint and period-specific behavior.
Guillermo del Toro represents another level entirely. The acclaimed director of The Shape of Water and Pan’s Labyrinth is known for extracting remarkable performances while creating visually stunning worlds.
The Frankenstein project paired Jacob with Oscar Isaac and Mia Goth, both highly respected actors. This collaboration pushed him to elevate his craft further and the results are evident in the critical acclaim he received.
Working with such directors provides invaluable learning experiences. These filmmakers have distinct visions and high standards, which can help young actors refine their skills and artistic sensibilities.
Social Media Presence and Fan Engagement
Unlike many actors his age, Jacob Elordi maintains a relatively minimal social media presence. His Instagram account exists but isn’t updated with the frequency or promotional content typical of Hollywood stars. His Twitter account has been suspended.
This approach feels refreshing in an era of constant self-promotion. He shares occasional glimpses into his life but doesn’t overshare or manufacture controversies for attention.
His fanbase remains incredibly dedicated despite his social media restraint. Online communities discuss his performances, speculate about upcoming projects and create fan content without needing constant engagement from him.
This balance suggests maturity and understanding that sustainable careers aren’t built on social media metrics alone. Quality work and genuine talent create lasting impact.
Challenges and Controversies
No celebrity career exists without challenges and Jacob Elordi has faced his share. Some viewers found his Nate Jacobs character in Euphoria so disturbing they directed anger toward the actor himself.
This confusion between actor and character demonstrates his effectiveness in the role but also presents challenges. He’s addressed this in interviews, explaining that playing complex characters doesn’t mean endorsing their actions.
In February 2024, a radio producer alleged that Jacob pushed him and put his hands around his neck after he asked for bathwater as a reference to Saltburn. This incident generated brief negative attention.
He’s also spoken publicly about feeling objectified following The Kissing Booth’s success and being uncomfortable with teen heartthrob status. This vulnerability has resonated with fans who appreciate his honesty.
The biggest challenge moving forward might be escaping typecasting. His early roles established certain expectations and breaking free from those perceptions requires careful project selection which he seems to be managing successfully.
Recent and Upcoming Projects
Beyond the acclaimed Frankenstein film, Jacob Elordi continues building an impressive filmography. In 2025, he appeared in The Narrow Road to the Deep North, an Amazon Prime miniseries based on Richard Flanagan’s novel about Australian prisoners of war during World War II.
He also starred in On Swift Horses (2025), a Western drama that further demonstrates his range across different genres. The film showcases his ability to inhabit period pieces authentically.
Industry reports suggest he’s being considered for major franchises and prestige dramas. Interestingly, he turned down an audition for Superman, stating: “They asked me to read for Superman. That was immediately, ‘No, thank you.’ That’s too much. That’s too dark for me.”
His career trajectory seems headed toward A-list status if he continues making smart choices. The combination of commercial appeal and critical respect positions him well for long-term success.
The next few years will likely determine whether he becomes a household name or remains a respected character actor. Based on current momentum and critical acclaim, the former seems increasingly likely.
Impact on Australian Representation in Hollywood
Jacob Elordi joins a proud tradition of Australian actors succeeding in Hollywood. Following in the footsteps of Hugh Jackman, Cate Blanchett, Heath Ledger and Chris Hemsworth, he represents the latest generation.
Australian performers are often praised for their training and work ethic. The country’s entertainment industry provides strong foundational education in performing arts, with rigorous theater programs and acting schools.
His success opens doors for other Australian actors and demonstrates that talent transcends geographic origins. Hollywood increasingly recognizes international performers who bring fresh perspectives and different training backgrounds.
He’s spoken about maintaining his Australian identity despite living and working primarily in the United States. This connection to his roots adds authenticity and keeps him grounded amid Hollywood’s glamour.
Behind the Scenes: Work Ethic and Preparation
Colleagues and directors consistently praise Jacob Elordi’s professionalism and preparation. He arrives on set having done extensive character work and remains open to direction and collaboration.
For Euphoria, he worked closely with the show’s creator Sam Levinson to understand Nate’s psychological makeup. This collaboration resulted in one of television’s most complex antagonists, with Jacob bringing psychological depth to the troubled character.
In preparing for Elvis Presley in Priscilla, he studied footage, read biographies and worked with movement coaches. The goal wasn’t impersonation but capturing the essence of the icon his magnetism, volatility and control.
For Frankenstein, he spent months preparing physically and emotionally for the Creature. He studied Japanese butoh dance, observed his dog’s innocent movements and worked with del Toro to create a character that was both monstrous and deeply human.
This dedication to craft suggests longevity beyond physical appearance or youthful charm. Actors who invest in their skills tend to have sustainable careers that evolve over decades.
Cultural Impact and Youth Influence
Jacob Elordi’s roles, particularly in Euphoria, have sparked important cultural conversations. The show addresses topics like addiction, identity, toxic masculinity and relationships with rare honesty.
Young viewers see him as representing a new kind of masculinity one that acknowledges vulnerability and complexity. His characters aren’t simple heroes or villains but humans struggling with real issues.
The Kissing Booth series, while lighter in tone, also resonated with teenagers navigating first relationships and complicated emotions. These stories provided comfort and entertainment during challenging times, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
His influence extends beyond entertainment into fashion, social discussions and youth culture broadly. This impact carries responsibility, which he seems to take seriously by choosing increasingly substantive roles.
Read More: Nicole Wallace Actress: Biography and Best Life Career 2025
Personal Opinion and Final Thoughts
Having followed Jacob Elordi’s career from The Kissing Booth through his acclaimed turn in Frankenstein, I’m impressed by his artistic evolution. He could have easily coasted on looks and early success but instead chose challenging roles that push his abilities.
The decision to work with directors like Sofia Coppola, Guillermo del Toro and Paul Schrader shows maturity rare in young actors. These aren’t necessarily the most commercially lucrative choices but they build artistic credibility and demonstrate commitment to craft.
What I find most compelling is his willingness to play unlikeable characters. Nate Jacobs could have destroyed his career if handled poorly but Jacob found the humanity in someone deeply troubled. That takes courage and skill.
His performance as the Creature in Frankenstein represents a defining moment. The universal critical acclaim, particularly for his acting, proves he’s transcended teen heartthrob status and established himself as a serious dramatic actor.
Looking ahead, Jacob Elordi appears poised to become one of his generation’s most respected actors. He has the talent, physical presence, work ethic and most importantly the artistic judgment to succeed long-term.
My prediction? If he continues selecting quality projects and refining his craft while working with visionary filmmakers, Jacob Elordi will be remembered as more than just another pretty face from Netflix teen movies. He’s building a legacy as a transformative actor capable of bringing depth and humanity to any character.
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. All information regarding Jacob Elordi’s career, personal life and roles is based on publicly available sources and may be subject to change. The views expressed here are those of the author and do not constitute medical, legal or professional advice. Copyrighted material is used under fair
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