Chad Michael Murray Bio
Chad Michael Murray (born August 24, 1981) is an American actor, writer, and model. He played the lead role of Lucas Scott in The WB/CW teen drama series One Tree Hill (2003–09, 2012) and had notable roles in popular films such as A Cinderella Story (2004) and Freaky Friday (2003). Murray’s career has spanned over two decades, featuring performances in various TV shows and movies, solidifying his status in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Background
Chad Michael Murray was born in Buffalo, New York, and was raised by a single father, Rex Murray, who worked as an air traffic controller. His mother left the family when Murray was 10 years old. He has five siblings, consisting of a younger sister, three younger full brothers, and a younger half-brother from his father’s second marriage, and has two step-siblings, consisting of a step-sister and a step-brother. Murray attended Clarence High School in Clarence, New York, where he became a fan of literature and played football. As a teenager, he worked at the Dipson Theatres in Eastern Hills Mall. In his late teens, he broke his nose, which led to rumors about him having had a nose job. Murray clarified that he was jumped in a Burger King at 18, resulting in the injury.
Path to Hollywood
Murray won a scholarship to attend a modeling convention in Orlando, Florida, where he met an agent who encouraged him to move to Los Angeles. He began modeling for brands such as Skechers, Tommy Hilfiger, and Gucci. In 2000, he guest-starred on the MTV drama anthology series Undressed and later landed a recurring role as Tristin DuGray on The WB television series Gilmore Girls. The series became a hit, and Murray established himself as a staple actor on the network for the rest of the decade.
Chad Michael Murray Career
Early Career (2000–2003)
Murray’s first notable work included his role as Tristin DuGray on Gilmore Girls and a guest appearance on Diagnosis: Murder. In 2003, he appeared in the family drama television film A Long Way Home and played the lead role of Luke Hartman in The Lone Ranger. He gained widespread recognition when he was cast as Lucas Scott on One Tree Hill, which debuted on September 23, 2003. The series became one of The WB’s most successful programs, earning Murray six Teen Choice Award nominations, including wins for Choice TV – Breakout Actor and Choice TV Actor – Drama.
Breakthrough (2003–2010)
Murray’s breakthrough role came with One Tree Hill, where he played Lucas Scott, a character that resonated with audiences. The show’s popularity led to various endorsements and significant media attention. In 2004, he starred as Austin Ames in A Cinderella Story, which became a box office success, earning $70.1 million worldwide. Murray’s performance earned him the award for Choice Movie – Breakout Actor at the Teen Choice Awards, making him the first person to win in both TV and Movie categories in the same year. He also starred in House of Wax and Home of the Brave during this period, further solidifying his status in Hollywood.
Notable Works and Milestones
Murray’s signature work includes One Tree Hill and A Cinderella Story, both of which have left a lasting impact on his career. He received multiple Teen Choice Award nominations and wins, showcasing his popularity among fans.
Chad Michael Murray Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Chad Michael Murray has received several nominations for his performances, particularly for his work on One Tree Hill and in films like A Cinderella Story.
Chad Michael Murray Awards Won
Chad Michael Murray has won several awards, including the Choice TV – Breakout Actor and Choice Movie – Breakout Actor at the Teen Choice Awards, recognizing his talent and popularity in the entertainment industry.
Chad Michael Murray Family
Chad Michael Murray was previously married to actress Sophia Bush from 2005 to 2006. He is currently married to actress Sarah Roemer, with whom he has three children: a son born in 2015 and two daughters born in 2017 and 2023.
Personal Life
Murray is a lifelong fan of the Buffalo Bills National Football League team. In October 2024, he signed on to executive produce a docuseries titled “Just One Before I Die,” about the Buffalo Bills fanbase. His personal life has been marked by his relationships and family, particularly his marriage to Sarah Roemer and their children.
