Jacob Elordi’s Hollywood Rise: From Teen Drama to Serious Actor

Jacob Elordi’s rise in Hollywood did not follow the usual path. From teen romance fame to intense dramatic roles, the Australian actor has built a career defined by risk, discipline, and long-term vision, reshaping his image into one of the industry’s most compelling leading men.

Jacob Elordi has established himself as a major Hollywood presence. Originally from Australia, he worked his way up to reach his current stature, starring alongside Margot Robbie in "Wuthering Heights" and earning recognition for performances in "Frankenstein" and "The Narrow Road to the Deep North."

From Teen Idol to Dramatic Actor

Elordi first gained attention in the 2018 Netflix hit "The Kissing Booth." The film made him a global heartthrob and led many to expect a career centered on romantic comedies. Instead, he quickly shifted into darker, more complex roles.

His portrayal of Nate Jacobs in HBO’s "Euphoria" marked a turning point. The role showcased his dramatic range and redefined his public image. He continued building on that momentum with performances in "Saltburn," "Priscilla," and "Oh, Canada."

A Career Built on Intentional Choices

Elordi has remained selective with his roles. He declined to audition for James Gunn’s "Superman," despite being considered a strong fit. His decisions reflect a long-term approach to his career.

Author Richard Flanagan described that mindset: “Jacob wants to make work that will stand up in 20, 50 years,” he said. “He’s got an ambition as an artist, which is not so common these days. He believes that acting is something worth aspiring to, that there’s some greater goal there. I think art is what results when you risk your life. And he’s willing to risk his life.”

Early Struggles and Determination

Growing up in Australia at 6'5", Elordi initially seemed destined for sports. That changed when he broke his back playing rugby at 16, which led him to pursue acting.

He enrolled in an acting school in Melbourne, where students were not allowed to audition while training. Determined to move forward, he filmed self-tapes at night using rented theater spaces. The school eventually discovered his actions and asked him to leave.

“When they asked me to leave, the next Friday, I booked 'The Kissing Booth,’” he admitted. It was as if everything was meant to be, and things were finally falling into place.

Life in Los Angeles and a Turning Point

However, he'd soon realize that it doesn't just skyrocket from there. Despite early success, Elordi faced setbacks after "The Kissing Booth." “You don't just get given movies after you make a movie,” he said.

He stayed in Los Angeles and struggled to find work, at one point living out of his car on Mulholland Drive. During this period, he filmed self-tapes and helped friends audition for "Euphoria." On a whim, he submitted his own audition at the last minute.

“That was going to be the last audition I did before leaving... I got really nervous. My face went red... I butchered it. But they called me to come back,” he recalled.

A Defining Breakthrough

Landing "Euphoria" came nearly a year after finishing "The Kissing Booth 3." The role allowed Elordi to move beyond his early image and establish himself as a serious actor.

The shift opened doors to more complex performances, including portraying Elvis Presley and Frankenstein’s monster. It highlighted how persistence and timing shaped his career.

Elordi is now recognized as one of Hollywood’s leading men. His career reflects careful choices and a focus on meaningful work. By moving beyond early expectations, he has built a body of work that continues to resonate with audiences.