Charles Melton Bio
Charles Michael Melton (born January 4, 1991) is an American actor. After working as a fashion model, Melton ventured into acting with guest roles on the television series Glee (2014) and American Horror Story: Hotel (2015–2016). His breakthrough came with his portrayal of Reggie Mantle in the CW series Riverdale (2017–2023). Melton gained recognition for his leading role in the romance film The Sun Is Also a Star (2019). For his acclaimed portrayal in the drama film May December (2023), Melton earned nominations for a Critics’ Choice Movie Award and a Golden Globe Award.
Early Life and Background
Charles Michael Melton was born on January 4, 1991, in Juneau, Alaska, to Sukyong and Phil Melton. His father is an American with English ancestry, while his mother is a Korean immigrant who moved to the United States with Charles’s father in 1990. Melton is the eldest child, having two younger sisters. His family moved frequently due to his father’s military career, spending about five years living in Pyeongtaek, Gyeonggi, South Korea, before eventually settling in Manhattan, Kansas.
Melton graduated from Manhattan High School in 2009 and later attended Kansas State University, where he played as a defensive back on the football team. However, he dropped out of college at age 20 to pursue acting and moved to Los Angeles, California, in 2012. Before his acting career, Melton also worked as a dog walker on the app Wag.
Path to Hollywood
Charles Melton first found success as a model, booking gigs for major brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Kenneth Cole, and MAC. His initial acting roles included guest appearances on Glee and American Horror Story. In 2017, he received mainstream attention when he was cast as Reggie Mantle in the second season of the CW series Riverdale, replacing Ross Butler, who left due to commitments to another project. Melton became a series regular starting with the third season.
In 2019, he starred in his first feature film as Daniel Bae in The Sun Is Also a Star, which is based on the novel by Nicola Yoon. This role made him the first Korean-American and Asian-American actor to lead a teen romance film from a major Hollywood studio. His performance in the film helped establish him as a rising star in the industry.
Charles Melton Career
Early Career (2010–2016)
Charles Melton began his career in 2010, initially working as a model before transitioning into acting. His early work included guest roles on popular television series, which helped him gain valuable experience in front of the camera. His modeling background provided him with a unique perspective that he brought into his acting roles.
During this period, Melton’s work in television laid the groundwork for his future success. His breakout role in Riverdale marked a significant turning point in his career, allowing him to showcase his talent to a broader audience.
Breakthrough (2017–2023)
Charles Melton’s breakthrough came with his role as Reggie Mantle in Riverdale, which premiered in 2017. His portrayal of the character resonated with audiences, and he quickly became a fan favorite. The show’s success contributed to Melton’s growing popularity and opened doors for more significant opportunities in film.
In 2019, he starred in The Sun Is Also a Star, a romantic drama that further solidified his status as a leading actor. His performance was well-received, and he gained recognition for his ability to convey deep emotional connections on screen. In 2023, Melton co-starred in the critically acclaimed film May December, directed by Todd Haynes, where he acted alongside notable stars Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore. His performance earned him multiple awards for Best Supporting Actor, including wins at the Gotham Independent Film Awards, the National Society of Film Critics Awards, and the New York Film Critics Awards.
Notable Works and Milestones
Charles Melton’s signature work includes his role in Riverdale and his leading performance in The Sun Is Also a Star. His recent acclaim for May December has positioned him as a prominent figure in contemporary cinema, showcasing his versatility and depth as an actor.
Charles Melton Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Charles Melton has received several nominations for prestigious awards, particularly for his performance in May December. His work has been recognized by critics and industry professionals alike, highlighting his talent and contributions to film and television.
Charles Melton Awards Won
Charles Melton has won multiple awards for his performance in May December, including the Best Supporting Actor at the Gotham Independent Film Awards, the National Society of Film Critics Awards, and the New York Film Critics Awards. These accolades reflect his growing prominence in the film industry and his ability to deliver compelling performances.
Charles Melton Family
Charles Melton is the eldest of three children in his family. He has two younger sisters, Patricia and Tammy. Tammy works with him as his producing partner, contributing to his creative projects and endeavors.
Personal Life
Charles Melton has had several high-profile relationships. He dated his Riverdale co-star Camila Mendes from October 2018 to December 2019, with a brief rekindling in 2021. He also dated Chase Sui Wonders in early 2022 and had a relationship with Chloe Bennet in the spring and summer of 2023. Melton’s personal life has garnered media attention, but he remains focused on his career and philanthropic efforts.
