Early Life: The Roots of a Star
Jacob Nathaniel Jacob Elordi was born on June 26 in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. Growing up in a close-knit family, Jacob was the youngest of four siblings. His father, John, a house painter of Basque descent, and his mother, Melissa, a stay-at-home mum, provided a supportive environment where creativity was encouraged.
From an early age, Jacob showed a natural flair for performance. He took part in school plays and local theatre productions, including Seussical, which ignited his passion for acting. Even as a young boy, Jacob’s charisma and dedication stood out, signalling a future in entertainment.
“Growing up, I never thought about being famous. I just loved acting. It was that simple.” – Jacob Elordi
Jacob’s Australian roots shaped his outlook, giving him a grounded perspective despite the whirlwind of fame that would come later. He often reflects on his humble upbringing as a key factor in staying centred as he navigates Hollywood.
Breakthrough: The Kissing Booth
Jacob Elordi’s breakout role was with Netflix’s The Kissing Booth, where he played the charming and charismatic Noah Flynn. Released in 2018, the film became an instant hit worldwide, especially among teenage audiences.
The success of The Kissing Booth propelled Jacob into the spotlight, transforming him from an aspiring actor into a recognised name in Hollywood. While many teen actors struggle to transition from light-hearted roles to more serious ones, Jacob took this opportunity as a stepping stone, exploring projects that would challenge him and broaden his range.
A Deeper Dive: Nate Jacobs in Euphoria
In 2019, Jacob demonstrated his versatility by portraying Nate Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria. Unlike his light-hearted role in The Kissing Booth, Nate is a complex, troubled character battling with intense emotions and conflicts.
Critics praised Jacob’s performance for its nuance and intensity. The role proved that he was more than just a teen heartthrob; he could convincingly handle dark and psychologically complex characters. Working alongside Zendaya and other talented co-stars allowed Jacob to develop as an actor, refining his craft in a high-pressure, critically acclaimed environment.
Expanding Horizons: From Priscilla to Saltburn
Seeking roles that pushed his artistic boundaries, Jacob starred as Elvis Presley in Sofia Coppola’s 2023 biographical drama Priscilla. The role demanded not only physical transformation but also an understanding of Presley’s emotional depth. Critics acclaimed Jacob’s performance as authentic, engaging, and respectful to the legend he portrayed.
Following Priscilla, Jacob appeared in Emerald Fennell’s dark comedy thriller Saltburn, playing Felix Catton. His performance earned him a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actor, marking a significant milestone in his career. These projects showcased Jacob’s ability to diversify his roles and tackle complex characters across different genres.
Tackling Iconic Roles: Frankenstein’s Creature
In 2025, Jacob took on one of his most ambitious roles yet—the Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s adaptation of Frankenstein. Preparing for this role involved extensive makeup, physical training, and emotional exploration.
The film premiered at the Venice International Film Festival, receiving a thirteen-minute standing ovation—the longest in the festival’s history. Critics praised Jacob for bringing vulnerability and humanity to the Creature, demonstrating his ability to convey complex emotions without relying solely on dialogue.
Personal Life and Public Image
Jacob Elordi has maintained a relatively private personal life despite intense media attention. His relationships with co-stars Joey King, Zendaya, model Kaia Gerber, and YouTuber Olivia Jade have been widely reported, but he remains focused on his craft rather than publicity.
He emphasises personal growth and authenticity, often discussing the importance of staying grounded while navigating fame. Jacob has expressed that choosing meaningful roles over commercial projects allows him to develop as an actor and connect more deeply with his audience.
“For me, it’s never been about the fame. Acting is about understanding people, telling stories, and connecting with audiences in a meaningful way.” – Jacob Elordi.
Acting Philosophy and Style
Jacob’s approach to acting is deeply immersive. He studies each character’s psychology, motivations, and emotional depth. Whether portraying a romantic lead, a troubled teen, or an iconic figure, Jacob prioritises authenticity and relatability.
His ability to switch between genres—from rom-coms to dark dramas—makes him a rare talent in Hollywood. Jacob believes that growth comes from taking risks, embracing challenging roles, and fully committing to each character’s journey.
FAQ About Jacob Elordi
Q1: How did Jacob Elordi start his acting career?
A: He began acting in school plays at age twelve, eventually taking classes and appearing in short films before his breakthrough in The Kissing Booth.
Q2: What is Jacob Elordi’s most famous role?
A: He is best known as Nate Jacobs in HBO’s Euphoria, which allowed him to explore a darker, more complex side of acting.
Q3: Has Jacob Elordi won any awards?
A: He has been critically acclaimed and received a BAFTA nomination for Saltburn.
Q4: Who has Jacob Elordi dated?; A4: Media has linked him to Joey King, Zendaya, Kaia Gerber, and Olivia Jade Giannulli.
Q5: What are Jacob Elordi’s upcoming projects?
A: Upcoming projects include Oh, Canada and The Narrow Road to the Deep North, both of which promise challenging roles.
Quotes That Capture Jacob’s Journey
“I want to take on roles that scare me. That’s where the real growth happens.” – Jacob Elordi
“Fame is fleeting, but craft endures. That’s what keeps me motivated.” – Jacob Elordi.
Conclusion
Jacob Elordi’s evolution from a Brisbane schoolboy to an internationally recognised actor demonstrates talent, versatility, and determination. From teen rom-coms to psychologically intense dramas, he continues to push boundaries and redefine modern acting. With upcoming projects and a commitment to authenticity, Jacob Elordi is a name that will continue to resonate in Hollywood for years to come.
