At 43, Chad Michael Murray’s next chapter is in full swing.
His Netflix film, The Merry Gentlemen, tells the story of a former Broadway dancer (Britt Robertson) who creates an all-male revue in her hometown to raise money and save her family’s restaurant. Images from the sexy calendar distributed to promote the film made their way to social media and had his millennial fans gushing about their favorite star.
Murray, in fact, got his start as a teen heartthrob. His first breakout role was as Tristan DuGray on the WB’s Gilmore Girls. He parlayed his model good looks and acting skills into major opportunities, including roles on Dawson’s Creek and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. In 2003, Murray was cast as Jake in Disney’s remake of the classic hit Freaky Friday with Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan. Later that year, Murray landed the role as Lucas Scott on WB’s One Tree Hill –the role that made him into a household name.
Over the next several years, Murray secured roles in major Hollywood productions including A Cinderella Story, House of Wax and Home of the Brave. While furthering his career on the big screen, he raked in countless awards for his One Tree Hill role.
Prepared to challenge himself to be seen beyond his sex symbol status, he sought out independent films and more complex characters. His portrayal of Officer Ingram in the gripping independent film Fruitvale Station, starring Michael B. Jordan, comes to mind as an example of his range.
‘A Cinderella Story’ • Warner Bros.
One of the many reasons Murray has longevity is his discipline when it comes to his roles. He pours himself into each project with passion, excitement, and plenty of preparation. Whether he’s taking on comedic characters such as Tanner McCoy in A Madea Christmas or diving headfirst in serious dramatic renditions such as Ted Bundy in Ted Bundy: American Boogeyman, Murray prides himself on bringing his A game to embody each character he portrays.
For The Merry Gentlemen he spent months learning how to be as authentic as possible playing the sexy dancer who catches Britt Robertson’s attention. Has he sought Channing Tatum’s advice (Magic Mike)? We don’t know. But he arrived on set earlier than his castmates to nail his choreography and stay ahead of the game. From the success of The Merry Gentlemen and the renewed revival of his loyal fanbase, it looks like the hard work paid off.
More memorable characters are next. He starred as Brooke Shield’s love interest in the 2024 Netflix original Mother of the Bride. He’s set to begin filming Season 3 of the hit show Sullivan’s Crossing (where he stars as Cal Jones) and to reprise his role in the upcoming sequel to the Disney classic Freakier Friday.
He is also a published author. He penned his first graphic novel, Everlast, in 2011 and co-authored his second offering American Drifter, An Exhilarating Tale of Love and Murder with novelist Heather Graham in 2017.
Murray has managed to maintain his status as one of Hollywood’s sexiest leading men without compromising his ability to flex his acting muscle. We’re sure to be celebrating Murray’s extensive career well into his 50’s… and beyond.
Gone are the days when you’re over the hill at 50. Because 50 is the new 30 and there are plenty of reasons to embrace the older, wiser, sexier and more confident version of you. Thank you, Chad.
