From Runway To Leading Men: Male Models Turned Hollywood Heartthrobs

Believe it or not, some of your favorite Hollywood hunks actually started out striking poses before delivering lines. If you grew up in the 1980s, you probably noticed a new wave of dreamy dudes popping up on billboards, in GQ spreads, and eventually—on your TV screens and in blockbuster movies. Yep, the era of the male model-turned-actor had officially arrived, and it’s a trend that’s still going strong. Think tight designer jeans, perfectly sculpted abs in skimpy underwear ads, and enough smolder to stop traffic.

And one of the trailblazers of that trend? None other than the dashing Jack Scalia—my latest guest on the Hollywood Obsessed podcast! In fact, to celebrate my brand-new two-part interview with the man himself (Episodes 117 & 118), I thought it would be the perfect time to take a walk down memory lane and shine a spotlight on some of the most iconic male models who made the leap to the big (and small) screen.

From Ralph Lauren Polo king Tyson Beckford to heartthrobs like Josh Duhamel and Ashton Kutcher, this blog post is a fun, flirty tribute to the men who proved they’ve got just as much talent as they do bone structure. So sit back, relax, and get ready to swoon all over again. Enjoy!

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Tyson Beckford: The Trailblazing Supermodel Who Redefined Male Modeling

Tyson Beckford isn’t just a model—he’s a fashion icon and a trailblazer. Best known as the face of Ralph Lauren Polo, the Jamaican-American model and actor carved out a lane for male models at a time when the industry was dominated by women. With his chiseled features, undeniable charisma, and effortless style, Beckford became one of the most successful Black male supermodels of all time.

In the 1990s, while names like Naomi, Cindy, and Claudia were commanding the catwalks, Beckford was making waves of his own. As a prominent face for Ralph Lauren, he appeared in print ads, TV commercials, and fashion events across the globe, solidifying his status as a household name. His influence was so significant that in 1995, VH1 named him "Man of the Year," and People magazine included him in their coveted list of the "50 Most Beautiful People in the World."

Beckford’s appeal extended beyond the runway. He took on television as the host of Bravo’s "Make Me a Supermodel", guiding a new generation of hopefuls through the competitive world of modeling. He also dipped into acting, with appearances in films like "Biker Boyz" and the cult fashion comedy "Zoolander". Reality TV audiences will also recognize him from his appearances on "America’s Next Top Model".

Tyson Beckford broke barriers and set new standards for male models, proving that men could achieve the same level of fame and cultural impact as their female counterparts. Decades into his career, he remains a symbol of style, confidence, and representation in fashion and entertainment.

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Jack Scalia: From Baseball Dreams to Soap Opera Heartthrob

Before he was heating up TV screens with his smoldering stare, Jack Scalia was chasing a very different dream—baseball. Yep, the man who would go on to make millions of hearts race was once drafted by the Montreal Expos… until a shoulder injury threw him a curveball that would change everything.

Luckily for us, that curveball led straight to a modeling career in the late '70s and early '80s. Jack quickly became a favorite in fashion campaigns, modeling for brands like Eminence Briefs, Jordache Jeans, and Armani. Oh, and that now-iconic poster shot by Bruce Weber? Total game-changer. Scalia helped define the era’s idea of the all-American, chiseled leading man before he ever delivered a single line on screen.

But once he did start acting? Forget it. Jack Scalia was everywhere. Fans of "All My Children" will remember him as Chris Stamp, the rugged, mysterious love interest who earned him a Daytime Emmy nomination. And who could forget his role as Nicholas Pearce, the dashing man who won (and then broke) Sue Ellen Ewing’s heart on "Dallas"? He also popped up in favorites like "Remington Steele", "The Devlin Connection", and "Saints & Sinners", not to mention his work behind the scenes as a producer on films like "The Genius Club" and "Dark Breed".

With his timeless looks, undeniable charm, and a résumé full of steamy soap moments and dramatic turns, Jack Scalia is the kind of classic TV hunk we’ll never stop obsessing over.

And speaking of obsession—don’t miss my two-part interview with Jack on the latest episodes of Hollywood Obsessed. He spills stories, shares memories, and yes, still knows how to turn on the charm.

Click HERE to listen to it now.

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Josh Duhamel: From Runway Rookie to Hollywood Hunk

Let’s be honest—Josh Duhamel didn’t just stroll into Hollywood, he smoldered his way in. With his impossibly perfect jawline and easygoing charm, it’s hard to imagine a time when he wasn’t a star. But before he was saving the world in "Transformers" or stealing hearts in rom-coms, Josh was just a ridiculously good-looking guy trying to make it in the world of fashion.

Back in the '90s, he gave modeling a shot—and while it didn’t exactly make him rich, it did open some very good-looking doors. In 1997, he entered a modeling competition and casually won "Male Model of the Year", beating out none other than Ashton Kutcher. (Yes, that Ashton Kutcher.) But Josh quickly realized he wanted more than moody poses and designer briefs—he wanted to act. So he hit the commercial workshop circuit, took acting classes, and made the leap from pretty face to full-fledged performer.

And what a leap it was. Duhamel made his acting debut as Leo du Pres on "All My Children", instantly setting soap fans’ hearts on fire. From there, he moved on to star as Danny McCoy in NBC’s "Las Vegas", cementing his status as TV’s hottest leading man. Then came the big screen takeover—"Transformers", "When in Rome", "Life as We Know It", "Safe Haven", "New Year’s Eve", "You're Not You"... shall we go on?

Josh has also kept things interesting with voice roles in major video games like "Call of Duty: WWII" and "The Callisto Protocol", and in 2021, he suited up as a superhero in Netflix’s "Jupiter’s Legacy". Whether he’s saving the day, playing the romantic lead, or just looking outrageously good doing absolutely anything, Josh Duhamel remains one of Hollywood’s most deliciously enduring heartthrobs.

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Ashton Kutcher: From Runway to Rom-Com Royalty

Before he was Punk’d-ing celebrities, stealing scenes in rom-coms, or playing a tech genius on and off-screen, Ashton Kutcher was just a small-town Iowa guy with a killer jawline and the kind of smirk that made casting directors swoon. His big break? Winning a modeling contest at the mall. (Yes, the mall. Dreams really do come true, people.)

Fresh out of the University of Iowa where he was studying biochemical engineering (hot and smart—rude), Ashton was discovered and whisked off to New York City. He signed with Next Model Management, strutted his stuff for Calvin Klein and Abercrombie & Fitch, and even walked the runways in Paris and Milan. According to Ashton, the male modeling world is every bit as wild as the opening scenes of "Triangle of Sadness", which he says totally nailed the pressure and chaos of that world.

But Ashton didn’t stay in front of fashion cameras for long. Soon after, he booked his breakout role as the lovable doofus Michael Kelso on "That ’70s Show"—and the rest is Hollywood history. From "Dude, Where’s My Car?" to "Just Married", "The Butterfly Effect", "No Strings Attached", and beyond, he became the go-to guy for romantic comedies, sci-fi mind-benders, and, of course, prank shows (shoutout to "Punk’d", which ruled the early 2000s).

And let’s not forget his more serious turn as Steve Jobs in the biopic "Jobs", his time on "Two and a Half Men", or his Netflix hit "The Ranch". Most recently, he’s showing off his darker side in the comedy thriller "Vengeance". The boy-next-door charm? Still very much intact.

From modeling to movies to mogul status, Ashton Kutcher has done it all—and somehow still looks like he just stepped out of a Calvin Klein ad.

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Mark Wahlberg: From Calvin Klein Icon to Hollywood Heavyweight

Who didn’t have that steamy Mark Wahlberg Calvin Klein ad on their bedroom wall growing up? I know I did. Wink wink. With abs so sharp they could slice bread and a brooding stare that screamed bad boy energy, Marky Mark wasn’t just a model—he was a cultural moment.

Before he became one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars, Mark Wahlberg burst onto the scene as the shirtless frontman of Marky Mark and the Funky Bunch. His music may have had us “feelin’ the good vibrations,” but it was his stripped-down Calvin Klein ads—with none other than Kate Moss—that truly launched him into superstardom. That two-year underwear contract made him the face (and body) of an era, though it wasn’t without controversy. His edgy persona sparked backlash and even protests, but let’s be real—it also made him unforgettable.

Eventually, Mark dropped the Funky Bunch, left his bad-boy image behind (sort of), and pivoted to acting. His early roles in "Renaissance Man" and "Fear" gave a hint of what was to come, but it was "Boogie Nights" that made Hollywood take him seriously. Suddenly, Mark Wahlberg wasn’t just a former model trying to act—he was an actor.

And then came the blockbusters. From "The Perfect Storm", "The Italian Job", and "The Departed" (hello, Oscar nom!) to his hilarious turns in "Ted", "Daddy’s Home", and "The Other Guys", Wahlberg proved he could flex both his muscles and his comedic timing. He even took over the "Transformers" franchise and somehow made giant robot movies feel personal. Not to mention, he’s been a behind-the-scenes powerhouse too—producing hits like "Entourage", "Boardwalk Empire", and "Ballers". Oh, and did we mention he co-founded Wahlburgers? This man does it all—preferably in a tight T-shirt.

From poster boy to powerhouse, Mark Wahlberg’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention—with just the right amount of swagger.

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Jon-Erik Hexum: The Hollywood Dreamboat We Lost Too Soon

If you’re old enough to remember Jon-Erik Hexum, then you know the heartbreak that comes with hearing his name—or seeing one of those impossibly handsome photos. Hexum wasn’t just another pretty face; he was the whole package. With chiseled features, natural charisma, and undeniable screen presence, he was poised to become a major Hollywood star before tragedy struck far too soon.

Born in Englewood, New Jersey, Hexum was a true Renaissance man. A musical prodigy who played multiple instruments, he studied biomedical engineering before switching to philosophy, played football, and even worked as a radio DJ under the name “Yukon Jack.” His big break came when John Travolta’s manager took notice, launching Hexum’s path to Hollywood.

He turned down early TV roles in "The Dukes of Hazzard" and "CHiPs", but soon found fame as the dashing Phineas Bogg in "Voyagers!" and sizzled opposite Joan Collins in "The Making of a Male Model". At the time of his death, he was starring in the action series "Cover Up" as a former Green Beret turned model—proving he could mix brains, brawn, and charm like few others.

Tragically, Hexum's rising career ended in 1984 when he accidentally discharged a prop gun loaded with blanks on set, unaware of their fatal potential. He was just 26 years old. Though his life was cut short, Hexum left behind a legacy of talent, generosity—his organs saved five lives—and enduring beauty that continues to captivate fans to this day.

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From Runways to Red Carpets: The Remarkable Rise of Djimon Hounsou

Before Djimon Hounsou was battling gladiators, summoning lightning as a wizard, or chasing down superheroes in the Marvel Universe, he was tearing up the runways of Paris. Hounsou began his modeling career in 1987, working with legendary designer Thierry Mugler and strutting alongside fashion icons like Iman and Naomi Campbell. Paris quickly took notice of his striking presence and effortless charisma.

By 1990, Hounsou made the leap across the pond to Los Angeles, bringing his modeling chops with him. While continuing to model, he dove headfirst into commercials, music videos, and small film roles. But this wasn’t just a pit stop—he was putting every dollar toward acting and diction classes, determined to make his mark on Hollywood. And boy, did it pay off. In 1997, he wowed Steven Spielberg with his audition for "Amistad"—not just with his performance, but with his fluency in his native Goun dialect. His portrayal of Cinqué earned him a Golden Globe nomination and launched a powerful new chapter in his career.

Hounsou went on to collect Oscar nominations for his unforgettable performances in "In America" (2002) and "Blood Diamond "(2006), cementing his place among Hollywood’s elite. He’s become a regular in both the Marvel and DC cinematic universes, playing Korath the Pursuer in "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Captain Marvel", and the mystical wizard Shazam in a string of DC blockbusters. Add in epic roles in "Gladiator", "Constantine", "Furious 7", "A Quiet Place Part II", and the "Rebel Moon" saga—and you’ve got one seriously impressive résumé.

Never one to be boxed in, Hounsou added “director” to his list of titles in 2018 with his passion project "In Search of Voodoo: Roots to Heaven", a documentary exploring his cultural heritage. From catwalks to Cannes, Djimon Hounsou has carved a truly unique path—proving that with talent, tenacity, and a little runway flair, you really can do it all.

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From Backup Dancer to Hollywood Heartthrob: The Unstoppable Rise of Channing Tatum

Before he was melting screens in "Magic Mike" or breaking out his dance moves in "Step Up", Channing Tatum was just a young dreamer with serious rhythm and ambition. His first real break came in 2000—not in film, but as a $400 backup dancer in Ricky Martin’s “She Bangs” music video. It was a humble start, but the spark was undeniable.

That spark quickly lit up the fashion world. Tatum’s striking looks and magnetic presence landed him campaigns with Armani, Abercrombie & Fitch, Dolce & Gabbana, and Emporio Armani. Tear Sheet magazine named him one of the “50 Most Beautiful Faces” in 2001, and soon after, he signed with Ford Models in New York. Hollywood took notice—and it wasn’t long before the big screen came calling.

After a film debut in "Coach Carter" (2005), Tatum exploded into stardom in 2006 with back-to-back hits: the teen comedy "She’s the Man" and the dance-fueled "Step Up". From there, he built a powerhouse career, moving effortlessly between action ("G.I. Joe", "White House Down"), comedy ("21 Jump Street"), and drama ("Foxcatcher", "The Vow"), while even stepping behind the camera to co-direct and star in "Dog" (2022).

In addition to being named People’s Sexiest Man Alive in 2012, Tatum earned a spot on Time’s 100 Most Influential People in 2022. Whether he's making audiences laugh, cry, or cheer, Channing Tatum continues to prove he's far more than just a pretty face—he's a bona fide Hollywood force.

Some facts are taken from IMDB & Wikipedia.

Don't miss my captivating two-part interview with the charming former male model turned renowned actor Jack Scalia on the latest episodes of the Hollywood Obsessed podcast! This conversation is filled with exclusive stories and behind-the-scenes revelations that you won't hear anywhere else.

Click the links below to listen now and get inspired!

Episode 117 - HERE

Episode 118 - HERE