Humble Beginnings: Hollingsworth’s Early Days and the Pursuit of a Dream
Benjamin Hollingsworth, known to millions as the complex Brady on Netflix’s Virgin River, carved a path to success that wasn’t always paved with red carpets. Born on September 7, 1984, in Brockville, Ontario, Canada, his journey into acting was fueled by a deep passion for storytelling that took him from small Canadian towns to the bustling entertainment scene. Early in his career, like many aspiring actors, Hollingsworth faced his share of challenges, including a period where he navigated the precarious lifestyle of “couch surfing” as he chased his Hollywood dream.
Sharpening the Craft: Hollingsworth’s Formal Training
Hollingsworth’s commitment to his craft led him to the prestigious National Theatre School of Canada in Montreal, where he honed his acting skills through an intensive three-year conservatory program, graduating in 2006. This formal training provided him with a strong foundation in both dramatic and comedic arts, equipping him for the diverse roles he would later undertake. His early career saw him gain experience in Canadian television, guest-starring in popular series like Degrassi, Heartland, and The Line.
A Budding Romance in Toronto: Roommates with a Future Star
During his time navigating the Canadian entertainment industry in Toronto, Hollingsworth shared an apartment with fellow Canadian actress Nina Dobrev. What began as a roommate situation blossomed into a romantic relationship in 2006, and the pair dated for three years. Dobrev, who would later achieve international fame for her role in The Vampire Diaries, remained a “good friend” to Hollingsworth even after their relationship ended in 2009, as he mentioned in a 2021 interview. Their shared early experiences in the industry forged a lasting connection.
The Bold Move to Hollywood: Facing the Challenges of a New Landscape
In 2009, recognizing the need to further his career, Hollingsworth made the pivotal move to Los Angeles. Like many aspiring actors arriving in Hollywood, he faced the daunting realities of endless auditions, fierce competition, and moments of uncertainty. This period likely echoed his earlier “couch surfing” days in terms of the challenges and instability inherent in pursuing a career in acting. However, Hollingsworth’s talent and perseverance began to pay off as he gradually made a name for himself.
Breakthrough Roles and Building a Career: From “The Joneses” to “Code Black”
Hollingsworth’s breakout role came in 2010 with his feature film debut in The Joneses, where he starred alongside Demi Moore, David Duchovny, and Amber Heard. This critically acclaimed film helped to put him on the map and led to further opportunities in both film and television. He secured recurring roles in series such as Suits, The Tomorrow People, and Cult, showcasing his versatility as an actor. A significant step in his career came with his series regular role as Dr. Mario Savetti in the CBS medical drama Code Black, a performance that earned him a Golden Maple Award nomination.
Finding Lasting Love: Marriage and Family Life
While his early romantic life included a relationship with a fellow rising star, Hollingsworth found lasting love with lingerie designer and Bar Method teacher Nila Myers. They met in 2010 and, after a whirlwind two-month engagement, married on November 10, 2012. Their family has since grown to include three children: sons Hemingway Nash (born in 2016) and Gatsby Willem (born in 2018), and a daughter, Juniper Bloom (born in 2020). Hollingsworth frequently speaks of his deep love and admiration for his wife and the joys of fatherhood.
Embracing the “Bad Boy” Persona in “Virgin River”: A New Level of Recognition
In 2019, Hollingsworth landed the role of Dan Brady in the Netflix series Virgin River, which catapulted him to a new level of recognition and solidified his image as a compelling “bad boy” character with layers of complexity. Brady’s journey from a troubled outsider to a man seeking redemption has resonated with audiences, and Hollingsworth’s portrayal has been a key element of the show’s success.
Beyond Brady: Exploring Diverse Roles and Future Aspirations
While Virgin River has been a significant chapter in his career, Hollingsworth has also continued to explore diverse roles in television movies and guest appearances, showcasing his range beyond the “bad boy” archetype. His recent work in Hallmark films, for example, demonstrates his ability to portray more wholesome and romantic characters. This desire for variety suggests an actor keen on continually challenging himself and avoiding typecasting.
Conclusion: A Journey of Resilience and Growth
Benjamin Hollingsworth’s journey from his early days of navigating the challenges of a young actor, including a period of couch surfing, to his current success as a recognizable face on a popular streaming series is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and dedication to his craft. His early connection with Nina Dobrev provides a glimpse into his formative years in the industry, while his enduring marriage and family life highlight his personal growth. As he continues to captivate audiences with his portrayal of Brady in Virgin River and explores new roles, Hollingsworth’s story serves as an inspiring example of an actor who has built a successful and fulfilling career through hard work and a willingness to embrace new challenges.
