Remember Them? 14 Iconic Celebrities Who Were Absolute Heartthrobs in Their Youth – And What They’re Up To Now!

Long before social media influencers and streaming stars commanded our attention, there was a golden era when teen heartthrobs truly ruled the world. They dominated our TV screens, packed movie theaters, and graced countless magazine covers, capturing millions of hearts with their smoldering good looks, charming smiles, and undeniable talent. These were the faces that adorned our bedroom walls, sparked countless daydreams, and fueled endless conversations with our friends.

Now, before you even think about questioning my credentials for compiling such a list, let me defend myself! As a teenager in the ‘90s, I lived through this phenomenon firsthand. Every girl I dated, or even attempted to date, was constantly comparing me to the glossy pages of *Tiger Beat Magazine*. I heard all about these dreamy stars nonstop from all of my friends and, of course, my sister. So, if there’s anyone with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to who was truly hot in the ‘90s and beyond, it’s absolutely me.

So, get ready for a serious blast from the past, because we’re taking a deep dive into the lives of some of the biggest teen heartthrobs of their era. These are the stars who made us swoon and whose posters were practically a rite of passage for an entire generation. We’ll revisit their most iconic roles, remember what made them such unforgettable crushes, and catch up on what they’ve been doing since their youthful heyday. Let’s see who still holds a permanent place in your heart!

1. **Jonathan Taylor Thomas (JTT)**JTT was *the* poster boy of the ’90s, no question about it. Thanks to his iconic role on ABC’s hit sitcom *Home Improvement* and lending his unforgettable voice to Disney’s animated masterpiece *The Lion King*, he became arguably the biggest teen idol of the entire decade. His boy-next-door charm and witty humor as Randy Taylor made him a household name and a staple in every teen magazine.

It wasn’t just his talent, but his undeniably cute and approachable look, coupled with an easy-going persona, that solidified his place in millions of hearts. We literally watched him grow up on our screens, transitioning from a beloved child actor to the coolest son on prime-time television. He embodied the relatable, yet aspirational, crush that every ’90s kid dreamed of.

He capitalized on his immense fame, starring in films like *Tom and Huck*, showcasing his range beyond the sitcom world. But what truly sets JTT apart for many fans is his decision to step away from the relentless glare of the limelight at the height of his career. He chose to focus on academics and pursue an Ivy League education, a move that only added to his mystique and demonstrated a different kind of ambition.

While he’s only had some small roles here and there in recent years, along with doing some writing and directing, the collective ‘heart’ we have for JTT remains strong. His journey from child star to intellectual is a fascinating one, and for many, he will forever be *the* JTT who taught us the meaning of a true ’90s crush. We can’t help but still heart him!

2. **Devon Sawa**Just when we thought ghosts couldn’t be dreamy, Devon Sawa emerged from the ectoplasm in *Casper*, and suddenly, a whole generation knew exactly what a ‘human ghost’ looked like. His dreamy blue eyes and perfectly feathered blonde hair in that brief, memorable scene made him an instant heartthrob, attracting so much attention from swooning fans that his status as a teen dream was cemented overnight. It was a role that defined a generation’s crush.

But here’s the thing about Devon: he didn’t want to just be the cute ghost boy. He made a deliberate effort to take on edgier roles, purposefully distancing himself from that squeaky-clean teen dream image. We saw him in raw, impactful performances like the music video for Eminem’s ‘Stan,’ embracing a darker side. He further proved his versatility as a punk in *SLC Punk!* and absolutely terrified us in the gory thriller *Final Destination*, showing he was far more than just a pretty face capable of making us swoon.

For a while, he mostly stayed out of the mainstream spotlight, taking on less prominent projects and focusing on a quieter life, which many stars choose to do after the intensity of teen fame. However, recent appearances in shows like *Chucky* and *Hacks* have delighted long-time fans who never forgot those captivating blue eyes. These new roles indicate that Sawa might just be poised for a much-anticipated, long-awaited comeback, proving that some crushes truly never fade and can even get better with age.

3. **Andrew Keegan**Oh, Andrew Keegan! Even though he played the ultimate aspiring model jerk, Joey Donner, in the iconic *10 Things I Hate About You*, we simply couldn’t help but be utterly charmed by him. His undeniable cuteness made it impossible to truly dislike him, even when he was being a total cad. He had that perfect bad-boy vibe mixed with undeniable good looks that just worked.

And let’s not forget his role as the sensitive single dad, Wilson West, a recurring character on *7th Heaven* and Mary’s very first serious boyfriend. This role truly showcased his softer, heartthrob side, proving he could play both the mischievous and the genuinely caring love interest, which only broadened his appeal to fans everywhere. He was everywhere in the ’90s, from *10 Things I Hate About You* to *Camp Nowhere*.

At the end of the millennium, with those big roles under his belt, it genuinely seemed like Keegan was poised to become a massive star, gracing countless magazine covers and starring in blockbuster films. However, for reasons that often perplex fans, it appears his career never fully took off in the blockbuster way many expected, leading to him stepping back from the intense glare of Hollywood’s bright lights.

Interestingly, for a few years in the 2010s, Keegan ventured into a unique path, running a community spiritual center loosely based around Hinduistic philosophies. This showed a different, introspective side to the former teen idol. While the center closed in 2017, he has since taken on a few acting roles, reminding us of his talent. For many of us who remember his ’90s reign, we’d absolutely love to see him make a bigger comeback soon – perhaps with another sensitive dad role, or maybe even as a charming jerk we still can’t resist!

4. **Rider Strong**With his signature floppy brown hair and those piercing blue eyes, Rider Strong was the quintessential ‘nicest bad boy’ to have a crush on in the ’90s. As Shawn Hunter, Cory Matthews’ best friend on the beloved *Boy Meets World*, he played the kid from the ‘wrong side of the tracks,’ bringing a perfect blend of angst, loyalty, and undeniable charm to our screens. It was a role that made him a well-known name among teenage audiences nationwide, solidifying his status as a bonafide heartthrob.

Strong became a regular fixture in teen magazines like *Tiger Beat*, with posters of his brooding good looks adorning countless bedroom walls. He embodied the complex, sensitive friend who always had your back, even if he sometimes got into trouble. This depth, combined with his distinct look, made him stand out. He played the character for an impressive seven seasons on the hit ABC show, growing up alongside his dedicated fanbase and becoming a defining face of ’90s television.

While he dabbled in a few movie roles, notably in 2002’s horror-comedy *Cabin Fever*, Rider Strong has largely shifted his focus behind the camera in more recent years. He delighted fans by reprising his iconic role as Shawn in the 2010s sequel *Girl Meets World*, reuniting with former castmates, including his fellow teen heartthrob Will Friedle. These days, he primarily works behind the scenes as a talented writer and director, contributing his creative vision to new projects, though his ’90s legacy as Shawn Hunter remains truly unforgettable, always a dreamboat.

5. **Erik von Detten**Who could forget Erik von Detten as the ultimate sleazebag, Josh, in *The Princess Diaries*? He might have been the villain who almost ruined everything for Mia Thermopolis, but let’s be honest, we couldn’t help but swoon a little for his striking blue eyes and that quintessential floppy ’90s hair. It was a combination that made even his mischievous character utterly crush-worthy, proving that sometimes, the bad boy wins our hearts, at least momentarily! With roles in *The Princess Diaries* and *Brink!*, Erik was a definite Disney Channel favorite.

Von Detten got his start in acting at a remarkably young age, around ten years old, playing Nicholas Alamain on the daytime soap *Days of Our Lives*, giving him early exposure to the spotlight. You might also be genuinely surprised to learn that von Detten was a prolific voice actor, lending his distinctive voice to iconic roles like Sid, the toy-torturing neighbor in *Toy Story*, and the mischievous Erwin from the animated series *Recess*. Talk about range, going from live-action villain to animated mischief-maker!

A few years after his *Princess Diaries* success, von Detten found himself having a difficult time getting consistent work as an actor, a common challenge in the often-unforgiving world of Hollywood. Instead of clinging to the fading dream, he made a decisive move, choosing to change career paths entirely. Today, he works as a sales manager at a commodities brokerage firm, embracing a private life in finance, though he still occasionally dabbles in amateur theater, proving that the love of performance never truly leaves you, even if the spotlight does.

6. **Joey Lawrence**Sometimes, the first-born in a talented family sets the bar, and for the Lawrence brother trio, Joey definitely had the biggest impact when it came to ’90s heartthrob status. Acting since he was just a kid, it was teen Joey who truly got everyone talking with his iconic role as the charmingly dumb jock brother on the hit sitcom *Blossom*. His signature catchphrase, ‘Whoa!’, became an instant sensation, echoing in hallways across America and firmly embedding him into pop culture.

Following the show’s successful run, Joey didn’t slow down one bit. He continued acting on television, including the family-centric show *Brotherly Love* alongside his real-life brothers, and starred in a variety of made-for-TV movie roles, such as Disney’s charming *Horse Sense*. He was a consistent presence on our screens, always bringing that familiar smirk and boyish appeal that had won so many over initially, maintaining his heartthrob status well into the late ’90s.

Throughout his acting career, Joey also dabbled in a music career, releasing pop singles like the memorable ‘Nothin’ My Love Can’t Fix’ and ‘Never Gonna Change My Mind.’ While that part of his career never quite reached the same heights as his acting, you simply can’t knock the guy for his continued hustle and dedication to entertainment. He’s still around today, gracing our screens, even if his mainstream teen dream status has gracefully evolved over the years. Joey on *Blossom* made ‘Whoa!’ a catchphrase, and he’s still got it!

“File:Corey Haim flickr-2.jpg” by Bree from USA is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

7. **Corey Haim**Corey Haim, with his famously adorable lopsided smile, possessed a unique charm that effortlessly propelled him from an ordinary child actor to a bonafide 80s teen heartthrob. His captivating performances in films like *Lucas* and *License to Drive* showcased a raw vulnerability and youthful appeal that resonated deeply with audiences, cementing his place in pop culture history. He had that quintessential 80s brooding stare that just melted hearts.

He achieved legendary status through his memorable appearances alongside fellow Corey, Corey Feldman, particularly in the iconic 1987 vampire film *The Lost Boys*. This dynamic duo, affectionately known as ‘The Two Coreys,’ went on to become the highest-paid teen actors of the entire 1980s, a testament to their immense popularity and box office draw. Their on-screen chemistry and off-screen friendship made them a pop culture phenomenon.

Haim’s adoring fans were incredibly devoted, showering him with thousands of letters every single week, and faithfully purchasing the many issues of *Tiger Beat* and *Bop* magazines that proudly featured him on their covers. He truly embodied the teenage crush of the decade, a true heartthrob for a generation raised on John Hughes movies and MTV. Bedroom walls of the 1980s told their own stories, filled with his photos.

Sadly, after a long battle with his mental health and personal struggles, Haim passed away tragically young in 2010 from complications of pneumonia. Though his life was cut short, Haim’s legacy lives on powerfully through his enduring work, reminding us of his incredible talent and the profound impact he had on a generation of fans. He will forever be remembered as one of the 80s’ most beloved dreamboats.

Okay, our nostalgic journey through the ultimate heartthrobs of yesteryear is far from over! We’ve already revisited some serious ’90s legends, but trust me, there are still plenty of dreamy stars from the ’90s and early 2000s who left an indelible mark on our hearts and pop culture. Get ready to swoon all over again as we catch up with eight more beloved idols, diving into their most memorable moments and seeing where their incredible paths have taken them since their days of dominating our bedroom walls and big screens.

8. **Chad Michael Murray**Seriously, who didn’t have a massive crush on Chad Michael Murray in the early noughties? He kicked off his reign as a charming bad boy with recurring roles on *Dawson’s Creek* and *Gilmore Girls*, and it was only a matter of time before he landed a leading role that truly cemented his heartthrob status. He absolutely nailed it as Lucas Scott on *One Tree Hill*, playing that not-so-bad boy with a heart of gold, a role that perfectly showcased his smoldering good looks and deep emotional range.

But Chad wasn’t just confined to Tree Hill; he also dominated the big screen as the romantic lead in some of our favorite teen movies. He effortlessly charmed us as Austin Ames in *A Cinderella Story*, and his appearance in *Freaky Friday* only added to his widespread appeal. Nobody who lived through the early 2000s can honestly claim they didn’t absolutely adore him, whether he was playing the sensitive artist or the dreamy prince.

While his mainstream heartthrob days might have cooled a bit, and he no longer commands the teen spotlight like he once did, Chad Michael Murray is still very much acting regularly. He left an enduring impact on pop culture, becoming a defining face of early 2000s teen drama and romance. For many, his roles are synonymous with that golden era of coming-of-age stories, and he’ll forever hold a special place in our pop culture memory banks.

9. **Freddie Prinze Jr.**As the son of a famous comedian, it became clear by the mid-90s that Freddie Prinze Jr. inherited his dad’s incredible knack for entertaining and charming audiences. Freddie was an absolute powerhouse in movies targeted squarely at teens, delivering unforgettable performances in hits like *I Know What You Did Last Summer* and *She’s All That*. He was everywhere, making him the undisputed king of teen rom-coms.

What made Freddie so special was his incredible versatility; he was just as brilliant in comedic roles as he was in dramatic ones, but he truly shone as a romantic lead. Movies like *Down to You* perfectly showcased his appeal, solidifying his status as the most sought-after guy in Hollywood for a generation of young viewers. His easy smile and genuine charm were simply irresistible.

After gracing our screens in numerous teen classics, including his role as Fred in the live-action *Scooby-Doo* movies, Freddie has primarily shifted his focus. These days, he’s more focused on raising his family with his wife, the equally iconic Sarah Michelle Gellar, and working behind the scenes. He even contributed his talents as a director and producer for the WWE, proving his passion for entertainment extends beyond the camera.

10. **Jesse McCartney**If his hit song “Beautiful Soul” wasn’t enough to win you over, Jesse McCartney’s beautiful face and undeniable talent certainly did the trick! Jesse got his start in entertainment at a remarkably young age, proving his talents in singing and acting from the tender age of ten when he was cast in the national tour of *The King and I*. Talk about a Broadway baby!

After a brief but memorable stint as a member of the boy band Dream Street, Jesse launched a wildly successful solo music career, truly kicking off with his iconic debut album, *Beautiful Soul*. But his talents weren’t limited to the recording studio. McCartney also had a thriving acting career that included multiple major voice acting roles, showcasing his incredible range across different mediums.

While recent years may have been a little quieter on the mainstream front, it looks like Jesse McCartney is absolutely poised for a fantastic comeback! He delighted fans by releasing a new album in 2021, and most recently, an EP in 2024 that even featured none other than Yung Gravy. We love to see this former Disney star and music sensation back in the spotlight, reminding us why he was such a beloved crush!

11. **Jonathan Brandis**After years of diligently building his resume with various roles on soap operas and television shows, Jonathan Brandis received his first major role at just 13 years old as Bastian Bux in *The NeverEnding Story II: The Next Chapter*. This early success set the stage for a career that would capture the hearts of millions. He quickly became a familiar and welcome face on our screens.

However, Brandis’s most enduring performance arguably came from his role as Young Bill in the chilling 1990 miniseries *It*, showcasing his dramatic range. But it was his captivating role in the science fiction series *seaQuest DSV* that truly propelled him to crush-worthy ’90s heartthrob status. His portrayal of a brilliant boy genius stole the hearts of young fans across the country, who showed their love by sending him an astonishing 4,000 letters per week.

Sadly, despite his immense popularity and promising career, Jonathan struggled with his mental health for years. He tragically took his own life in 2003 at the young age of 27. Though his life was cut short, Jonathan Brandis’s legacy lives on powerfully through his enduring work, reminding us of his incredible talent and the profound impact he had on a generation of devoted fans.

12. **Lee Thompson Young**Lee Thompson Young was still in his early teens when he landed the titular role of Jett Jackson in “The Famous Jett Jackson,” a Disney Channel series that resonated deeply with young audiences. Playing a child actor from the South raised by a single mother, the role truly hit home for Young, which undoubtedly enhanced the authenticity and depth of his performance. He quickly became a relatable and admired figure for kids growing up in the late ’90s.

Following the immense success of his Disney Channel show, Young continued to build an impressive resume with significant roles in a variety of projects. He captivated audiences in films like *Johnny Tsunami* and *Akeelah and the Bee*, and also made a notable appearance in the critically acclaimed television series *Friday Night Lights*. His talent and versatility were evident in every role he undertook.

Tragically, Young’s promising life was cut short when he took his own life in 2013, a heartbreaking loss for the entertainment world and his fans. In his honor, Young’s family established The Lee Thompson Young Foundation, which bravely works to keep his legacy alive while fighting against the pervasive stigma surrounding mental health. He left a lasting impression as a talented actor and a kind soul.

“Jonathan Bennett – Good Riddance Day 2024 81 (cropped)” by SWinxy is licensed under CC BY 4.0

13. **Jonathan Bennett**The enduring popularity of Tina Fey’s iconic 2004 hit movie *Mean Girls* all but guarantees that Jonathan Bennett will never, ever be forgotten. He was perfectly cast as the crush-worthy and genuinely kind Aaron Samuels, the dreamy object of affection for both Cady Heron and Regina George. Bennett’s performance is truly a highlight of the film, making him a household name for anyone who lived through the 2000s.

But how well have you kept up with this forever-crush since he graced the halls of North Shore High? Jonathan Bennett is still very much a working actor today, though he’s primarily known for his delightful roles in made-for-television Christmas movies. These are exactly the kind of feel-good, guilty pleasure films that bring so much joy during the holiday season, and he’s a regular fixture in them.

In 2017, Bennett bravely came out as gay, sharing his authentic self with the world. Five years later, in 2022, he made history by starring in Hallmark’s very first LGBTQ+-led Christmas movie, *The Holiday Sitter*. This was a monumental moment for representation and further solidified his status as a beloved and impactful figure, proving he’s still charming hearts in new and important ways.

14. **Corbin Bleu**Corbin Bleu burst onto our screens and proved himself to be a certified triple threat—an actor, singer, and dancer extraordinaire—when he absolutely slayed his role as Chad Danforth in the phenomenon that was *High School Musical*. His dazzling smile, incredible energy, and captivating performances made him an instant favorite and a quintessential early 2000s heartthrob, defining a generation’s crush.

While many fans might have noticed that he’s been somewhat surprisingly absent from our screens since the *High School Musical* trilogy concluded in 2008, don’t you worry! Corbin has been diligently putting his immense talents to fantastic use, primarily on the stage instead of the screen. He’s become a celebrated figure in the theater world, performing both off- and on Broadway in musicals like *In the Heights*, *Godspell*, *Hairspray*, and *Mamma Mia!*, among many others.

You can still catch glimpses of his unforgettable smile and dynamic presence in his occasional television appearances, reminding us of his incredible charm. However, it’s clear that Corbin Bleu has a deep affinity for live performance, truly thriving in the world of musical theater. He continues to enchant audiences with his talent and charisma, proving that once a heartthrob, always a heartthrob—even if the stage is his primary spotlight now!

And there you have it, fellow nostalgia lovers! From the boy-next-door charm of JTT to the triple-threat talent of Corbin Bleu, these celebrities truly defined what it meant to be a teen heartthrob for entire generations. They graced our bedroom walls, sparked our first crushes, and created unforgettable moments in pop culture that still resonate today. Whether they’ve continued their acting careers, ventured into new paths, or simply embraced a quieter life, their youthful magnetism and the joy they brought us remain timeless. Who knows, maybe revisiting these iconic faces has sparked a few new daydreams for you today! After all, some crushes truly never fade.