Milo Ventimiglia, born on July 8, 1977, in Anaheim, California, has carved a remarkable career in Hollywood. At 46 years old, the actor, director, and producer has established himself as one of the most versatile talents in the entertainment industry. Known for his charismatic roles and dedication to his craft, Ventimiglia’s life story and achievements are as captivating as the characters he portrays on screen.
Early Life and Background
Milo Ventimiglia is the youngest child of Carol and Vietnam War veteran Peter Ventimiglia. Raised alongside his sisters, Laurel and Leslie, he grew up in Orange, California. Of Italian, Scottish, and English descent, Milo was born with damaged facial nerves, leaving the left side of his mouth immobile. Despite this, his resilience and determination shaped his future success.
Ventimiglia attended El Modena High School, where he participated in wrestling, served as student governor president, and performed in drama productions. After graduating in 1995, he attended a summer program at the American Conservatory Theater and later pursued a theatre degree at UCLA, laying the foundation for his acting career.
Television Stardom
Milo Ventimiglia began his television journey in 1995 with a guest appearance on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. His early career included roles in Sabrina, the Teenage Witch and Saved by the Bell: The New Class. His breakout moment came in 2000 when he starred as Jed Perry in the Fox teen drama Opposite Sex. While the show was short-lived, it showcased his potential.
In 2001, Ventimiglia gained widespread recognition as Jess Mariano, the brooding heartthrob on Gilmore Girls. This role cemented his status as a fan favorite and ran until 2006. Following this, he played Chris Pierce in the third season of American Dreams and appeared in The Bedford Diaries.
From 2006 to 2010, Ventimiglia starred as Peter Petrelli in the hit NBC series Heroes, a role that earned him critical acclaim. He later featured in Mob City, Chosen, and The Whispers. His most iconic role to date came in 2016 as Jack Pearson in NBC’s This Is Us. His portrayal of a devoted father and husband garnered multiple Emmy nominations and solidified his place in television history.
This Is Us Salary Highlights
Ventimiglia earned $125,000 per episode during the early seasons of This Is Us, amounting to $2.25 million per season. By 2018, his salary doubled to $250,000 per episode, bringing his earnings to $4.5 million per season, reflecting his pivotal role in the show’s success.
Film Career
Milo Ventimiglia’s film debut came in 1999 with She’s All That. He followed this with roles in Speedway Junky and Winter Break. Notable performances include playing Sylvester Stallone’s son in Rocky Balboa (2006) and starring in the horror crime film Pathology (2008).
Ventimiglia’s filmography boasts an impressive range, including the action-packed Gamer and Armored, the horror movie Kiss of the Damned, and the comedy That’s My Boy. In 2018, he starred alongside Jennifer Lopez in Second Act. More recently, he delivered a heartfelt performance in The Art of Racing in the Rain, based on Garth Stein’s novel, and reprised his role as Rocky Balboa Jr. in Creed II.
Behind the Camera
In addition to acting, Ventimiglia has made his mark as a director and producer. He directed the 2007 web series It’s a Mall World, produced episodes of Chosen, and directed segments of This Is Us. His behind-the-scenes work highlights his multifaceted talent and dedication to storytelling.
Personal Life and Lifestyle
Milo Ventimiglia has kept much of his personal life private. He was in a relationship with Gilmore Girls co-star Alexis Bledel from 2003 to 2006 and dated Heroes co-star Hayden Panettiere from 2007 to 2009. Raised as a lacto-vegetarian, he has maintained this diet throughout his life. His commitment to a healthy lifestyle earned him the title of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals’ (PETA) Sexiest Vegetarian in 2009.
Ventimiglia abstains from smoking and alcohol, prioritizing well-being in both his personal and professional life.
Real Estate Portfolio
Ventimiglia’s savvy investments include a $2.195 million home in Venice, Los Angeles, purchased in 2002. In 2022, he acquired a $4.4 million property in Malibu, showcasing his taste for luxurious yet understated living spaces.
Net Worth and Legacy
As of 2025, Milo Ventimiglia’s net worth is estimated at $12 million. This wealth stems from his acting roles, directorial ventures, and smart real estate investments. Ventimiglia’s journey—from a drama-loving teen to an acclaimed actor and producer—is a testament to his talent and perseverance.
With his enduring appeal and a legacy of iconic roles, Milo Ventimiglia continues to be a prominent figure in Hollywood. Whether on screen or behind the camera, his contributions to the entertainment industry remain invaluable, making him a beloved star whose career is worth celebrating.