Modern Heartthrob Actors of the 2000s

The 2000s was a fantastic time for movies and television, introducing us to a whole new generation of talented and charming actors. These were the faces we saw on posters, the names that buzzed in conversations, and the stars who made us flock to the movie theater. They captivated audiences with their on-screen presence, whether they were playing the romantic lead, the action hero, or the complicated anti-hero. Their performances defined a decade and left a lasting impression on pop culture, influencing styles and setting trends.

From blockbuster hits to indie darlings, the actors of this era showcased a wide range of skills and became household names. They took on roles that were both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, proving their versatility and appeal. Many of these heartthrobs went on to build incredible careers, becoming some of the most respected and sought-after talents in the industry. Looking back, it’s clear that their work not only shaped the entertainment landscape of the 2000s but also continues to be celebrated by fans all over the world.

Orlando Bloom

Orlando Bloom shot to international fame with his role as the elf archer Legolas in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. His portrayal of the graceful and skilled warrior made him a standout in the ensemble cast and a fan favorite. Shortly after, he solidified his status as a leading man by starring as Will Turner in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ film series. This role as a blacksmith-turned-pirate further showcased his ability to handle action-packed blockbusters and charming romantic subplots.

Throughout the 2000s, he also took on roles in historical epics like ‘Troy’ and ‘Kingdom of Heaven’. In ‘Troy’, he played the prince Paris, whose love affair ignites a massive war. In ‘Kingdom of Heaven’, he had the leading role of Balian of Ibelin, a blacksmith who becomes a knight and defends Jerusalem. These films demonstrated his range as an actor and his capability to lead large-scale productions.

Jake Gyllenhaal

Jake Gyllenhaal started the decade with the cult classic ‘Donnie Darko’, where he played a troubled teenager. His performance in this mind-bending film earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. He continued to choose complex and interesting roles, such as the lovesick writer in ‘Proof’ and a Marine in ‘Jarhead’, which showed his commitment to diverse and challenging characters.

His career reached a new level of recognition with his role in ‘Brokeback Mountain’. His portrayal of a cowboy in a complicated and secret relationship earned him numerous award nominations. He also starred in the thriller ‘Zodiac’, playing a political cartoonist obsessed with finding a serial killer. These roles cemented his reputation as a versatile and intense actor capable of delivering powerful performances.

Heath Ledger

Heath Ledger delivered some of his most iconic performances in the 2000s, becoming one of the most respected actors of his generation. He charmed audiences as the romantic lead in ‘A Knight’s Tale’ and ’10 Things I Hate About You’ at the beginning of the decade. These roles established him as a charismatic leading man with a unique on-screen presence.

He then took on more complex and dramatic roles, including a powerful performance in ‘Brokeback Mountain’, which earned him widespread critical acclaim. His most famous role came as the Joker in ‘The Dark Knight’. This transformative and chilling portrayal is considered one of the greatest performances in cinema history. He fully immersed himself in the character, creating a truly unforgettable villain.

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling became a household name in the 2000s, thanks to his unforgettable role in the romantic drama ‘The Notebook’. His portrayal of the passionate and devoted Noah Calhoun captured the hearts of audiences worldwide and established him as a quintessential romantic lead. The on-screen chemistry he shared with his co-star became the stuff of legend.

Beyond his breakout romance film, Gosling also demonstrated his acting prowess in a variety of other roles. He earned critical acclaim for his performance as a drug-addicted teacher in ‘Half Nelson’. He also starred in the thriller ‘Fracture’ alongside a seasoned actor, holding his own and proving his versatility. These roles showed his ability to tackle complex characters and challenging material.

Ashton Kutcher

Ashton Kutcher was a prominent figure in 2000s pop culture, known for his roles in both television and film. He gained widespread fame as the lovable but dim-witted Michael Kelso on the popular sitcom ‘That ’70s Show’, which ran for most of the decade. His comedic timing and charming personality made him a fan favorite on the series.

In addition to his television success, Kutcher also starred in a number of comedy films throughout the decade. He was the lead in ‘Dude, Where’s My Car?’ and the romantic comedy ‘Just Married’. He also created and hosted the hit MTV show ‘Punk’d’, a practical joke reality series where he pranked other celebrities. This show was a cultural phenomenon and further solidified his status as a major star of the era.

Josh Hartnett

Josh Hartnett was one of the most in-demand actors of the early 2000s, starring in several major blockbusters. He played a leading role in the war epic ‘Pearl Harbor’, a film that became one of the highest-grossing movies of its year. He also starred in the intense war film ‘Black Hawk Down’, which was praised for its realism and ensemble cast.

Hartnett continued to work on a variety of projects throughout the decade. He took on roles in the crime thriller ‘Lucky Number Slevin’ and the horror film ’30 Days of Night’. He also appeared in the neo-noir mystery ‘The Black Dahlia’. These roles showed his willingness to explore different genres and characters, moving beyond his initial heartthrob image.

Chad Michael Murray

Chad Michael Murray became a teen idol in the 2000s, primarily due to his starring role in the hit television series ‘One Tree Hill’. His portrayal of the thoughtful and athletic Lucas Scott made him a household name and a fixture on teen magazine covers. The show was a massive success and ran for many seasons, cementing his place as a TV heartthrob.

In addition to his television work, Murray also had a successful film career during this time. He starred opposite a popular actress in the romantic comedy ‘A Cinderella Story’, a modern retelling of the classic fairytale. He also appeared in the horror remake ‘House of Wax’ and the family comedy ‘Freaky Friday’, showcasing his appeal across different genres and to a wide audience.

Adam Brody

Adam Brody captured the hearts of viewers with his role as the witty and adorkable Seth Cohen on the hit teen drama ‘The O.C.’. His character’s quick wit, pop culture references, and charming awkwardness made him a standout on the show and a favorite among fans. The series was a cultural phenomenon and launched him into stardom.

During and after his time on the popular teen show, Brody appeared in several films. He had roles in the action-comedy ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ and the comedy-drama ‘Thank You for Smoking’. He also starred in the horror-comedy ‘Jennifer’s Body’ and the romantic comedy ‘In the Land of Women’. These film roles allowed him to explore different types of characters beyond his well-known television persona.

Ben McKenzie

Ben McKenzie rose to fame as the tough but good-hearted Ryan Atwood on the popular teen drama ‘The O.C.’. His portrayal of a troubled teen from a broken home who gets a second chance in a wealthy community was the emotional core of the show. His character’s journey and relationships resonated with a large audience, making him a breakout star.

Following the success of the teen drama, McKenzie continued to work in both film and television. He starred in the independent drama ‘Junebug’ which received critical acclaim. Later in his career, he would go on to play a major role in a popular crime-fighting television series, showing his lasting appeal and ability to lead a primetime show.

Chris Evans

Before he became a global superstar as a shield-wielding hero, Chris Evans was already making a name for himself in the 2000s. He played the Human Torch in the ‘Fantastic Four’ films, where his charming and humorous performance was often highlighted as a standout element. This role established him as a capable actor in big-budget superhero movies.

Evans also appeared in a variety of other films throughout the decade. He starred in the teen comedy ‘Not Another Teen Movie’ and the science-fiction thriller ‘Sunshine’, directed by an acclaimed filmmaker. He also had a role in the action-comedy ‘The Losers’ and the comic book adaptation ‘Scott Pilgrim vs. the World’, showcasing his versatility and appeal in different genres.

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds showcased his signature wit and charm in a number of comedies during the 2000s. He starred as the title character in ‘National Lampoon’s Van Wilder’, a role that perfectly suited his comedic timing and charismatic personality. He also starred in the romantic comedies ‘Just Friends’ and ‘Definitely, Maybe’, where he proved to be a capable and endearing romantic lead.

In addition to his success in comedy, Reynolds also ventured into the action genre. He played Hannibal King in ‘Blade: Trinity’, where he displayed his physical prowess and ability to deliver witty one-liners. He also had a role in the superhero film ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’, which gave audiences their first glimpse of him in a role he would later redefine. His work in this decade laid the groundwork for his massive success as a major action star.

Hayden Christensen

Hayden Christensen became a globally recognized actor when he was cast as Anakin Skywalker in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy. He portrayed the character’s journey from a promising Jedi Knight to the formidable Darth Vader in ‘Attack of the Clones’ and ‘Revenge of the Sith’. These films were massive box office successes and made him a central figure in one of the biggest film franchises of all time.

Outside of the galaxy far, far away, Christensen also took on other roles that showcased his acting abilities. He starred in the drama ‘Life as a House’, for which he received award nominations. He also played the lead in the science-fiction thriller ‘Jumper’, about a man who can teleport. These roles demonstrated his desire to explore different genres beyond the iconic sci-fi series.

Zac Efron

Zac Efron burst onto the scene and became a teen phenomenon with his role as Troy Bolton in the ‘High School Musical’ series. The Disney Channel movie and its sequels were massive cultural hits, making him a household name among young audiences. His singing, dancing, and charming performance made him one of the biggest teen idols of the decade.

After his breakout success, Efron began to transition into more mature roles in film. He starred in the musical romantic comedy ‘Hairspray’, where he was part of a talented ensemble cast. He also played the lead in the comedy ’17 Again’, in which he portrayed a man who gets a chance to relive his high school years. These roles helped him move beyond his teen image and establish himself as a versatile actor.

Channing Tatum

Channing Tatum first gained widespread attention with his role in the dance movie ‘Step Up’. His performance as a talented street dancer showcased his incredible dancing skills and charismatic presence, making him an overnight sensation. The film was a box office success and led to a popular franchise, launching his career as a leading man.

Tatum also demonstrated his acting range in a variety of other films during the 2000s. He had a role in the high school comedy ‘She’s the Man’ and the drama ‘A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints’. He also starred in the action film ‘G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra’, proving his capabilities as an action star. These early roles showed his potential to succeed in multiple genres.

Shia LaBeouf

Shia LaBeouf rose from a young television actor to a major movie star in the 2000s. He first gained recognition as the star of the Disney Channel series ‘Even Stevens’, where his comedic talent was on full display. He then transitioned to film with the successful thriller ‘Disturbia’, in which he played a teenager under house arrest who suspects his neighbor is a killer.

His career reached new heights when he was cast as the lead in the ‘Transformers’ film series. The first film was a massive blockbuster and made him a global star. He also had a significant role in ‘Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull’, acting alongside a legendary actor. These high-profile roles solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood.

Paul Walker

Paul Walker was a defining action star of the 2000s, largely due to his role as Brian O’Conner in ‘The Fast and the Furious’ franchise. The first film was a surprise hit and launched a hugely successful series of movies. His portrayal of the undercover cop turned street racer made him a beloved figure among fans of action and car culture.

In addition to the action franchise, Walker starred in a number of other films throughout the decade. He appeared in the thrillers ‘Joy Ride’ and ‘Running Scared’, as well as the adventure film ‘Into the Blue’. He also had a role in the drama ‘Flags of Our Fathers’, directed by a renowned filmmaker. These roles showcased his versatility and his ability to handle different genres.

Jared Padalecki

Jared Padalecki became a well-known face on television in the 2000s with roles in two popular series. He first gained a following as Dean Forester on ‘Gilmore Girls’, the charming first boyfriend of one of the main characters. His role on the beloved show introduced him to a wide audience.

He then landed one of the lead roles in the long-running fantasy series ‘Supernatural’. His portrayal of Sam Winchester, one of two brothers who hunt supernatural beings, has become his most iconic role. The show premiered in the middle of the decade and developed a massive and dedicated fanbase, making him a major star in the world of television.

Jensen Ackles

Jensen Ackles became a prominent television actor in the 2000s, starring in several popular shows. He had memorable roles on ‘Dawson’s Creek’ and ‘Smallville’, which helped to build his profile. His performances in these series showcased his talent and made him a recognizable face to television audiences.

His career-defining role came when he was cast as Dean Winchester in the fantasy series ‘Supernatural’. Alongside his co-star, he plays one of two brothers hunting demons, ghosts, and other supernatural creatures. The show became a massive hit with a fiercely loyal fanbase and has been on the air for a very long time, cementing his status as a television icon.

Tom Welling

Tom Welling became a household name in the 2000s for his portrayal of a young Clark Kent in the hit television series ‘Smallville’. The show explored the life of the future superhero as he navigated high school and came to terms with his powers. Welling’s performance as the earnest and heroic character was central to the show’s long-running success.

‘Smallville’ was a massive hit and had a significant cultural impact, redefining the superhero origin story for a new generation. Welling’s portrayal of the iconic character was praised for bringing a sense of humanity and relatability to the role. During the show’s run, he also appeared in films like the comedy ‘Cheaper by the Dozen’ and the horror remake ‘The Fog’.

Milo Ventimiglia

Milo Ventimiglia gained significant recognition in the 2000s with roles in two highly popular television shows. He first captured the attention of audiences as the rebellious and intelligent Jess Mariano on ‘Gilmore Girls’. His character’s romantic relationship with one of the main characters was a major storyline and made him a fan favorite.

He then landed a main role on the ensemble drama ‘Heroes’, playing Peter Petrelli, a hospice nurse who discovers he has the ability to absorb the powers of others. The show was a huge success in its early seasons and made him a well-known actor. His character was central to many of the show’s most important plotlines.

Chris Pine

Chris Pine rose to international stardom at the end of the 2000s when he took on the iconic role of Captain James T. Kirk in the reboot of ‘Star Trek’. His charismatic and confident portrayal of the young starship captain was praised by critics and audiences alike. The film was a major box office success and successfully revitalized the classic science-fiction franchise.

Before his journey into space, Pine appeared in several other films. He played the romantic lead in the comedies ‘The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement’ and ‘Just My Luck’. These roles established him as a charming leading man. His work in the latter half of the decade set the stage for him to become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors.

James Franco

James Franco had a busy and varied career in the 2000s, appearing in a wide range of films. He first gained widespread attention as the lead in a television biopic about a famous actor, a role for which he received critical acclaim. He then played Harry Osborn in the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy, a complex character who is both the best friend and a major adversary of the titular hero.

Franco also collaborated with a frequent comedic partner in films like ‘Pineapple Express’, a stoner action-comedy that became a cult classic. He showed his dramatic range in films like ‘Milk’, where he played a key supporting role in the acclaimed biopic. His willingness to take on diverse and often unconventional roles made him one of the most interesting actors of the decade.

Seth Rogen

Seth Rogen became one of the leading voices in comedy during the 2000s, both as an actor and a writer. He first gained notice as a writer and co-producer on a critically acclaimed but short-lived television series. He had a breakout supporting role in a popular comedy about a 40-year-old man trying to lose his virginity.

He then starred in the hit comedies ‘Knocked Up’ and ‘Superbad’, which he also co-wrote. These films were both critical and commercial successes and helped define the comedy landscape of the decade. He also lent his voice to animated films like ‘Kung Fu Panda’ and starred in the action-comedy ‘Pineapple Express’, showcasing his versatility as a comedic talent.

Jonah Hill

Jonah Hill emerged as a major comedic actor in the latter half of the 2000s. He had a memorable small role in a popular comedy directed by a well-known comedic filmmaker. His breakout role came in the hit teen comedy ‘Superbad’, which he co-starred in and which was based on the real-life friendship of its writers. The film was a huge success and launched his career.

Following this success, Hill appeared in a string of popular comedies. He had roles in ‘Knocked Up’ and ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’, often playing hilarious and scene-stealing characters. He also had a starring role in the film ‘Accepted’. His unique comedic voice and talent for improvisation made him a standout performer in the comedy world.

Michael Cera

Michael Cera became known for his awkward and endearing comedic persona in the 2000s. He first gained widespread recognition for his role as George Michael Bluth in the critically acclaimed sitcom ‘Arrested Development’. His portrayal of the timid and well-meaning son in a dysfunctional family was a highlight of the beloved show.

He then starred in two major hit comedies in the same year, ‘Superbad’ and ‘Juno’. In ‘Superbad’, he played a high school senior on a quest to have a wild night before graduation. In ‘Juno’, he played the kind and somewhat awkward boyfriend of a pregnant teenager. These roles, along with ‘Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist’ and ‘Scott Pilgrim vs. the World’, solidified his status as a leading actor in independent and mainstream comedies.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Joseph Gordon-Levitt successfully transitioned from a child actor to a respected adult performer in the 2000s. He earned critical acclaim for his roles in independent films like ‘Mysterious Skin’ and ‘Brick’. These intense and complex performances showed his incredible range and his commitment to challenging material.

Towards the end of the decade, he starred in the indie romantic comedy ‘(500) Days of Summer’, which was a critical and commercial success. The film’s non-linear narrative and his charming performance as a lovelorn young man resonated with audiences. He also appeared in the blockbuster action film ‘G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra’, showcasing his ability to work in big-budget productions.

Robert Pattinson

Robert Pattinson became a global superstar in the late 2000s with his role as the vampire Edward Cullen in the ‘Twilight’ film series. The first film was a massive cultural phenomenon, and his portrayal of the brooding and romantic vampire made him an instant teen idol. The franchise went on to become one of the biggest of all time.

Before his breakout vampire role, Pattinson had another significant part in a major fantasy franchise. He played the popular and ill-fated Cedric Diggory in ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire’. This role introduced him to a large international audience. In between the blockbuster films, he also starred in smaller independent films like ‘Little Ashes’, where he portrayed a famous artist.

Taylor Kitsch

Taylor Kitsch gained widespread recognition for his role as the troubled and charismatic football player Tim Riggins in the critically acclaimed television series ‘Friday Night Lights’. The show, which premiered in the mid-2000s, was praised for its realistic portrayal of a Texas high school football team and its community. His performance was a fan favorite and a central part of the show’s emotional core.

His success on the small screen led to opportunities in film. Towards the end of the decade, he was cast as Gambit in the superhero film ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’. This role in a major blockbuster film raised his profile and set the stage for him to take on more leading roles in big-budget productions in the following years.

Jesse Eisenberg

Jesse Eisenberg became known for his portrayals of intelligent and often anxious characters in the 2000s. He had a breakout role in the independent film ‘The Squid and the Whale’, earning critical praise for his performance as the son of divorcing parents. He also starred in the dramedy ‘Adventureland’, playing a recent college graduate working at a theme park.

His career took another major leap forward at the end of the decade. He starred in the hit horror-comedy ‘Zombieland’, which was both a critical and commercial success. In this film, he played a nerdy college student trying to survive a zombie apocalypse, and his comedic timing was a key part of the movie’s appeal.

Andrew Garfield

Andrew Garfield began to make a name for himself in the latter part of the 2000s with roles in both television and film. He gained critical acclaim for his lead role in the British television drama ‘Boy A’. His performance as a young man trying to start a new life after being released from prison earned him a prestigious award.

He also had a supporting role in the fantasy film ‘The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus’ and the drama ‘Lions for Lambs’. It was at the very end of the decade that he was cast in a role that would make him a household name. He appeared in a critically acclaimed film about the founding of a major social media platform, a role that would set him up for superstardom in the next decade.

Hugh Dancy

Hugh Dancy charmed audiences in the 2000s with his roles in a variety of romantic films. He starred as the romantic lead in ‘Ella Enchanted’, a fantasy romantic comedy. He also appeared in ‘The Jane Austen Book Club’ and ‘Confessions of a Shopaholic’, establishing himself as a likable and handsome presence in romantic comedies.

Beyond the romance genre, Dancy also took on more dramatic roles. He had a part in the war film ‘Black Hawk Down’ early in the decade. He also starred in the historical drama ‘King Arthur’ as one of the Knights of the Round Table. These roles demonstrated his versatility as an actor.

Matthew McConaughey

Matthew McConaughey was a king of the romantic comedy genre in the 2000s. He starred in a string of successful films including ‘The Wedding Planner’, ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days’, and ‘Failure to Launch’. His laid-back charm and on-screen charisma made him a perfect fit for these lighthearted and popular movies.

He also took on roles in other genres, showing his versatility. He starred in the adventure film ‘Sahara’ and the sports drama ‘We Are Marshall’. In ‘We Are Marshall’, he played the head coach who rebuilds a college football team after a tragic plane crash. He also had a memorable comedic role in the action-comedy ‘Tropic Thunder’.

Gerard Butler

Gerard Butler roared onto the international scene with his iconic role as King Leonidas in the action epic ‘300’. His powerful performance and memorable lines made the film a massive box office hit and a cultural phenomenon. The role established him as a major action star.

Butler also showed his softer side in romantic films during the decade. He starred opposite a well-known actress in the romantic drama ‘P.S. I Love You’. He also appeared in the romantic comedy ‘The Ugly Truth’. These roles demonstrated his ability to be both a tough action hero and a charming romantic lead.

Jude Law

Jude Law was a prominent and versatile actor throughout the 2000s. He began the decade with a role in the acclaimed film ‘A.I. Artificial Intelligence’ and starred in the historical war film ‘Enemy at the Gates’. He also played a memorable role as a mob hitman in ‘Road to Perdition’.

He earned award nominations for his leading role in ‘Cold Mountain’ and also starred in the romantic comedy ‘The Holiday’. He took on the iconic role of Dr. Watson in a new take on ‘Sherlock Holmes’ at the end of the decade, a film that was a huge commercial success. His diverse range of roles made him one of the most respected actors of his time.

Ewan McGregor

Ewan McGregor showcased his incredible versatility in the 2000s, starring in musicals, blockbusters, and independent films. He sang and danced his way into audience’s hearts in the vibrant musical ‘Moulin Rouge!’. He also reprised his role as Obi-Wan Kenobi in the ‘Star Wars’ prequel trilogy, playing the wise Jedi Master.

McGregor collaborated with a renowned director on the fantasy drama ‘Big Fish’ and also appeared in the war film ‘Black Hawk Down’. He lent his voice to the animated film ‘Robots’ and starred in the thriller ‘Angels & Demons’. His willingness to jump between genres and take on unique projects made for a very interesting decade in his career.

Colin Farrell

Colin Farrell was one of Hollywood’s busiest actors in the 2000s, starring in a wide variety of films. He gained attention for his roles in the thrillers ‘Phone Booth’ and ‘S.W.A.T.’. He also worked with a famous director in the science-fiction film ‘Minority Report’.

Farrell also starred in historical epics like ‘Alexander’ and explored the criminal underworld in the dark comedy ‘In Bruges’, for which he received critical acclaim. He also had a role in the crime film ‘Miami Vice’, based on the popular television series. His intense on-screen presence made him a compelling actor to watch in any genre.

Eric Bana

Eric Bana demonstrated his impressive range as an actor with a series of diverse roles in the 2000s. He gained international recognition for his lead role in the Australian crime film ‘Chopper’. He then starred in the war film ‘Black Hawk Down’ and took on the title role in ‘Hulk’, playing the complex character of Bruce Banner.

Bana also played the Trojan prince Hector in the historical epic ‘Troy’ and starred in a critically acclaimed historical thriller directed by a legendary filmmaker. He also appeared in the romantic drama ‘The Time Traveler’s Wife’ and the comedy-drama ‘Funny People’. His ability to convincingly portray such different characters was a hallmark of his work during the decade.

Christian Bale

Christian Bale delivered some of his most iconic and transformative performances in the 2000s. He became a star with his chilling portrayal of a wealthy investment banker in ‘American Psycho’. He underwent a dramatic physical transformation for his role in ‘The Machinist’, showcasing his extreme dedication to his craft.

He is perhaps best known for his role as Batman in ‘The Dark Knight’ trilogy, which began in the middle of the decade. His gritty and realistic take on the character was praised by critics and audiences. He also starred in the acclaimed films ‘The Prestige’ and ‘3:10 to Yuma’, solidifying his reputation as one of the most talented and committed actors of his generation.

Joaquin Phoenix

Joaquin Phoenix delivered a series of powerful and acclaimed performances throughout the 2000s. He earned widespread recognition for his role as the villainous Roman Emperor in the historical epic ‘Gladiator’. He also starred in the science-fiction thriller ‘Signs’.

His most celebrated role of the decade came when he portrayed the legendary musician Johnny Cash in ‘Walk the Line’. His transformative performance, for which he did his own singing, earned him numerous awards and nominations. He also starred in the crime drama ‘We Own the Night’ and the romantic drama ‘Two Lovers’, continuing to choose complex and interesting roles.

Viggo Mortensen

Viggo Mortensen became an international star with his portrayal of Aragorn in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy. His performance as the noble and reluctant king was a cornerstone of the epic fantasy series. He brought a sense of gravity and heroism to the character that made him a fan favorite.

After his journey through Middle-earth, Mortensen continued to take on challenging roles in acclaimed films. He collaborated with a well-known director on the thrillers ‘A History of Violence’ and ‘Eastern Promises’. For his role in ‘Eastern Promises’, he earned an Academy Award nomination. He also starred in the post-apocalyptic drama ‘The Road’.

Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig redefined an iconic character for a new generation when he was cast as James Bond in the mid-2000s. His first outing as the secret agent in ‘Casino Royale’ was a massive critical and commercial success. His portrayal was praised for being more gritty, emotional, and realistic than previous interpretations.

Before he ordered his first shaken martini, Craig had already built an impressive resume. He starred in the British crime film ‘Layer Cake’ and had a supporting role in ‘Road to Perdition’. He also appeared in the historical thriller ‘Munich’, directed by a celebrated filmmaker. His work in the decade established him as a major international star.

Clive Owen

Clive Owen was a compelling and charismatic presence in a number of films throughout the 2000s. He starred in the critically acclaimed drama ‘Closer’, for which he received numerous award nominations. His performance in this film about complex relationships was praised for its intensity.

Owen also proved his skills as an action hero in films like ‘The Bourne Identity’ and ‘Sin City’. He had the lead role in the dystopian thriller ‘Children of Men’, a film that received widespread critical acclaim for its direction and storytelling. He also starred in the heist movie ‘Inside Man’, proving his versatility across genres.

Jason Statham

Jason Statham established himself as a premier action star in the 2000s. He became known for his roles in the action-packed ‘Transporter’ series, where he played a skilled driver for hire. These films showcased his impressive martial arts skills and cool, tough-guy persona.

He also starred in the high-octane action films ‘Crank’ and ‘The Italian Job’. He collaborated with a popular British director on the crime comedies ‘Snatch’ and ‘Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels’. His unique brand of action, often performing his own stunts, made him a fan favorite in the genre.

Matt Damon

Matt Damon had an incredibly successful and busy decade in the 2000s. He starred as the amnesiac super-spy Jason Bourne in ‘The Bourne’ trilogy, a series of films that redefined the action-thriller genre. His intense and physical performance was a key element of the franchise’s success.

Damon was also a key member of the star-studded ensemble cast of the ‘Ocean’s’ trilogy, playing a skilled pickpocket. He received critical acclaim for his work in films like ‘The Departed’ and ‘Syriana’. He also lent his voice to the animated film ‘Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron’ and starred in ‘The Good Shepherd’, showcasing his immense versatility.

Leonardo DiCaprio

Leonardo DiCaprio solidified his status as one of the greatest actors of his generation with a series of powerful performances in the 2000s. He began a fruitful collaboration with a legendary director, starring in films like ‘The Aviator’, ‘Gangs of New York’, and ‘The Departed’. His role as Howard Hughes in ‘The Aviator’ earned him numerous accolades.

He also starred in the mind-bending thriller ‘Shutter Island’ and the action-packed ‘Blood Diamond’, for which he received an Academy Award nomination. He also had a leading role in the crime caper ‘Catch Me If You Can’, directed by another iconic filmmaker. His willingness to take on complex and challenging roles cemented his reputation as a major dramatic actor.

Brad Pitt

Brad Pitt continued his reign as one of Hollywood’s biggest stars throughout the 2000s. He was a central part of the ensemble in the stylish ‘Ocean’s’ trilogy, playing the cool and collected Rusty Ryan. He also starred in the historical epic ‘Troy’, playing the legendary warrior Achilles.

Pitt also took on more quirky and critically acclaimed roles. He starred in the action-comedy ‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ and worked with a famous director on ‘Inglourious Basterds’. He earned an Academy Award nomination for his lead role in ‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’, a film about a man who ages in reverse. His varied and successful film choices demonstrated his immense star power and acting talent.

Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp’s most iconic role of the 2000s, and perhaps his career, was as Captain Jack Sparrow in the ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ film series. His eccentric and unforgettable performance turned the character into a cultural icon and the franchise into a massive blockbuster success. He received an Academy Award nomination for his work in the first film.

Depp also continued his successful collaboration with a visionary director in films like ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’, ‘Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street’, and ‘Corpse Bride’. For his role as the murderous barber, he won a Golden Globe award. He also portrayed the famous author J.M. Barrie in the drama ‘Finding Neverland’, earning another Oscar nomination.

George Clooney

George Clooney was a major force in Hollywood during the 2000s, both as an actor and a director. He starred as the charming leader Danny Ocean in the hugely successful ‘Ocean’s’ trilogy. He also received critical acclaim for his roles in films like ‘Michael Clayton’ and ‘Syriana’, for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Clooney also directed and starred in ‘Good Night, and Good Luck.’, a film that earned him directing and writing Oscar nominations. He also starred in the Coen Brothers’ comedy ‘O Brother, Where Art Thou?’. His work throughout the decade demonstrated his talent in front of and behind the camera, solidifying his status as a major Hollywood power player.

Will Smith

Will Smith was one of the biggest and most bankable movie stars in the world during the 2000s. He delivered acclaimed dramatic performances in ‘Ali’, where he portrayed the legendary boxer, and ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’, where he starred alongside his son. Both of these roles earned him Academy Award nominations for Best Actor.

He also starred in a string of massive blockbusters. He fought robots in ‘I, Robot’, survived a post-apocalyptic world in ‘I Am Legend’, and played a superhero in ‘Hancock’. He also returned to his action-comedy roots in ‘Men in Black II’. His charisma and ability to connect with audiences made him a consistent box office draw throughout the entire decade.

Keanu Reeves

Keanu Reeves was a major sci-fi and action star in the 2000s, thanks to his role as Neo in ‘The Matrix’ sequels, ‘The Matrix Reloaded’ and ‘The Matrix Revolutions’. These films were highly anticipated and continued the story of the groundbreaking original film. His portrayal of “The One” is one of his most famous roles.

Reeves also starred in the supernatural thriller ‘Constantine’, playing a cynical demonologist. He also appeared in the romantic drama ‘The Lake House’ and the science fiction film ‘A Scanner Darkly’. His work in the decade showed his continued appeal in action and genre films, maintaining his status as a unique and popular leading man.

Let us know which of these 2000s heartthrobs were your favorites in the comments below.