Before landing the role of Kevin Pearson in 2016, Justin Hartley was a known face in the TV world, but his career path hadn’t yet led him to the kind of complex role where he could show the true potential of his acting prowess. He had a familiar presence primarily through daytime dramas and genre shows; fans knew him from his stints on Passions and later The Young and the Restless, where his performance even earned him a Daytime Emmy Nomination. Justin also explored the superhero world, most notably playing Oliver Queen/Green Arrow on Smallville for several seasons and starred in an unaired Aquaman pilot. These roles demonstrated his charisma and leading man looks, often fitting within archetypes and providing consistent work and visibility. However, they never tapped into the emotional nuance and deep-seated vulnerability required for Dan Fogelman’s ambitious, multi-generational family drama. Playing Kevin, as part of the central sibling trio alongside Chrissy Metz (Kate) and Sterling K. Brown (Randall), was a significant departure from these roles and arrival into a complex one. During a conversation with Vulture, Justin shared the joy of playing Kevin’s role in This is Us. He said:
“It was gonna be awesome! Then three years ago, I remember thinking, I never thought I was gonna be this guy, this journeyman actor that bounces around from job to job to job.” The role of Kevin demanded more than charm; it required navigating decades of emotional baggage and portraying a character often masked by superficiality but internally grappling with insecurity and a need for validation. This is Us placed Justin within a powerhouse ensemble cast on a highly anticipated network series, with themes of addiction, grief, identity, and a long shadow of family history. Hence, it was enough to redefine a career, and Justin carried it with hard work and grace, which was noticed by his fans, colleagues, and critics.
When you think of This Is Us, you probably imagine heart-wrenching moments, complex family dynamics, and actors delivering stellar performances. But one of the most compelling transformations in the show’s history belongs to none other than Justin Hartley, who portrays Kevin Pearson. Before landing this role, Hartley was largely known for his part in Passions and later Smallville. However, it was his role in This Is Us that truly marked a turning point in his career, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor. In this article, we’ll explore how This Is Us gave Hartley his first truly complex role and how this character helped elevate his career to new heights.
The Journey Before ‘This Is Us’: Justin Hartley’s Career Background
Justin Hartley’s journey to becoming a household name didn’t happen overnight. He started his acting career in the early 2000s, appearing in a variety of roles, but none as impactful as the one he would eventually play on This Is Us. Before Kevin Pearson, Hartley was known for his role as the charming and mysterious Oliver Queen in Smallville and for his character Fox Crane in Passions. While these roles were significant, they didn’t allow Hartley to display the range of emotions and complexities he later brought to Kevin in This Is Us.
The Arrival of ‘This Is Us’ and a New Opportunity for Hartley
This Is Us premiered in 2016, quickly becoming one of the most popular TV shows of the decade. It wasn’t just another family drama—it was a beautifully layered narrative about life, love, and loss. The show’s unique storytelling, which alternated between multiple timelines, was a perfect vehicle for Hartley to step into a much more multifaceted character. Kevin Pearson wasn’t just a pretty face or the stereotypical “heartthrob.” He was a man grappling with complex issues like addiction, family trauma, and self-doubt.
The Complex Character of Kevin Pearson
At first glance, Kevin Pearson might seem like the typical successful actor living the glamorous life, but as the show progresses, we discover layers of insecurity, vulnerability, and pain that make him a fascinating character to watch. Kevin’s journey is far from simple; it’s a rollercoaster of emotions that sees him struggle with alcoholism, the pressures of fame, and strained relationships with his family. As Hartley brought this character to life, he displayed a depth and rawness that was a far cry from his earlier roles.
Breaking Away from Stereotypes
What made Kevin such a challenging character for Hartley to portray was the need to break away from the typical roles that had defined his career up to that point. Rather than playing a superhero or a smooth talker, Kevin was a man grappling with his own weaknesses and mistakes. This departure from the roles Hartley had previously played allowed him to stretch his acting muscles and explore a far more complex character.
The Emotional Depth of Justin Hartley’s Performance
To truly understand why This Is Us marked a breakthrough for Hartley, we need to look at the emotional depth he brought to Kevin Pearson. Many fans of the show have remarked on the raw authenticity Hartley infused into his character. From Kevin’s struggles with addiction to his strained relationship with his siblings, Hartley delivered a portrayal that was both heartbreaking and relatable. His ability to capture Kevin’s internal battles with such honesty is what made his performance so compelling.
The Real Struggles of Kevin Pearson
One of the key reasons Kevin Pearson’s character resonated so strongly with viewers is because of the realistic struggles he faced. Addiction is a complicated issue, and Kevin’s journey through rehab and the subsequent relapses highlighted the constant battle that people with substance abuse issues face. Hartley’s portrayal of these moments was so raw and authentic that it drew viewers into Kevin’s pain, creating an emotional connection with the audience.
Another critical aspect of Kevin’s character is his complicated relationships with his family. The bond between Kevin and his twin sister Kate is one of the emotional pillars of the show. Hartley’s chemistry with Chrissy Metz, who played Kate, made their sibling rivalry and support system feel incredibly real. The tension between Kevin and his father, Jack Pearson, played by Milo Ventimiglia, was also a standout aspect of Hartley’s performance, as he conveyed a mix of admiration, resentment, and deep longing for his father’s approval.
The Impact of Kevin Pearson on Justin Hartley’s Career
As This Is Us continued to capture the hearts of audiences, Justin Hartley’s career began to skyrocket. He wasn’t just known as the charming actor from Smallville anymore; he had become a respected talent in Hollywood for his ability to dive deep into a character’s psyche. His portrayal of Kevin Pearson earned him several award nominations, solidifying his place as one of the leading actors of his generation.
Recognition and Critical Acclaim
As the seasons of This Is Us unfolded, Hartley received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Kevin. His ability to portray both the highs and lows of Kevin’s life earned him widespread praise from critics and fans alike. Hartley’s performance wasn’t just about the dramatic moments—it was about the subtle nuances, the small expressions that conveyed Kevin’s internal world.
The Evolution of Hartley’s Career Post-‘This Is Us’
Thanks to his role in This Is Us, Justin Hartley has been able to explore a broader range of roles in Hollywood. His success on the show opened doors for him in film and television, allowing him to expand beyond the limits of his earlier work. Hartley has since taken on leading roles in other projects, including the Netflix hit The Noel Diary, showing the full breadth of his acting abilities.
The Emotional Toll of Playing Kevin Pearson
While playing a character as emotionally complex as Kevin Pearson was a career-defining moment for Hartley, it wasn’t without its challenges. The constant emotional weight of playing such a troubled character can take a toll on an actor. Hartley himself has spoken about the difficulties of balancing his personal life with the emotional demands of portraying Kevin, especially when filming some of the most emotionally charged scenes of the series.
Finding Balance in a Complex Role
In interviews, Hartley has discussed how he found a way to navigate the emotional ups and downs of Kevin’s story without losing himself in the character. While he invested deeply in Kevin’s journey, he also had to create boundaries to ensure he could disconnect from the role when the cameras stopped rolling. This balance is essential for any actor taking on a complex role, and Hartley’s ability to manage it speaks to his professionalism and dedication to his craft.
Conclusion: Justin Hartley’s Transformation Into a Leading Man
When we look back on Justin Hartley’s career, it’s clear that This Is Us played a pivotal role in his transformation from a familiar face in TV dramas to a respected and versatile actor. The complexities of Kevin Pearson gave Hartley the opportunity to showcase his range and depth, and his performance will be remembered as one of the defining aspects of the show. What began as a career move turned into a life-changing role, one that would not only shape Hartley’s future but also change the trajectory of his career forever.
