Ian Somerhalder's Background

Ian Joseph Somerhalder was born on December 8th, 1978, in a small town in Covington, Louisiana. Ian is the middle child, with an older brother, Robert Somerhalder, and a younger sister, Robyn Somerhalder. Ian Somerhalder and his siblings have French, English, Scottish, and Irish ancestry. When Ian was growing up, he spent most of his time swimming, boating, fishing, and training horses. Ian participated in his school's drama club and his town's local theater group. At around 10, Ian, with his mother Edna's encouragement, began his modeling career. During Ian's senior year of high school, he was offered the opportunity to model in Europe. Ian took this opportunity, which allowed him to travel and study, visiting places like Paris and London. At the age of 17, Ian began to study acting in New York. By the age of 19, Ian began working with an acting coach by the name of William Esper. Ian was spotted by a casting director when he starred as an extra in the film Black and White (1999). From then on, he began starring in films and TV shows.