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The actor who starred in "Prison Break" | Source: Getty Images
The actor who starred in "Prison Break" | Source: Getty Images

This 2000's Heartthrob Gained Weight, Went Gray & Was Diagnosed with Serious Condition After Fame – Before & After Pics

Roshanak Hannani
Nov 06, 2024
11:48 A.M.

This actor, who now sports a mature, fuller figure and silver hair, has openly embraced his identity as a gay man while also navigating a serious health diagnosis.

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This American star, best known for his role as Michael Scofield in "Prison Break," has had a long and successful Hollywood career. But he's also undergone significant personal and professional transformations. Here's a look at his journey, from the present to when he first became famous.

The actor as Senator Mark Hanson in "Madam Secretary" dated 2019 | Source: Getty Images

The actor as Senator Mark Hanson in "Madam Secretary" dated 2019 | Source: Getty Images

A Mature Actor

Despite mostly disappearing from the public eye and not using social media anymore, this 2000s heartthrob, now 52, continues to pursue his passion in front of the camera. Nineteen years after the premiere of "Prison Break," he and Dominic Purcell, 54, are set to reunite in the upcoming series "Snatchback."

The actor arriving at the 2017 PaleyLive LA Spring Season - "Prison Break" Screening And Conversation at The Paley Center for Media on March 29, 2017 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

The actor arriving at the 2017 PaleyLive LA Spring Season - "Prison Break" Screening And Conversation at The Paley Center for Media on March 29, 2017 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

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Purcell announced the news on Instagram, expressing gratitude to his wife, Tish Cyrus Purcell, and her production company, Hopetown Entertainment, for bringing the project to life.

The series reportedly centers on a highly skilled team of privately contracted operatives. Their job is to recover hostages from some of the most exotic and dangerous locations around the world.

The actor promotes 'Prison Break' on Day 1 of WonderCon held at Anaheim Convention Center on March 31, 2017 in Anaheim, California | Source: Getty Images

The actor promotes 'Prison Break' on Day 1 of WonderCon held at Anaheim Convention Center on March 31, 2017 in Anaheim, California | Source: Getty Images

While the show promises thrilling action and exotic locales, it'll be interesting to see how this actor's performance has changed after all his revelations of the past few years.

His Condition

For example, in July 2021, the actor disclosed a significant aspect of his personal life, revealing that he was diagnosed with autism as an adult. In a detailed, now-deleted Instagram post, he reflected on finding "unexpected gifts" during the lockdown brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

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The actor attending the 2017 PaleyLive LA Spring Season "Prison Break" screening and conversation at The Paley Center for Media on March 29, 2017 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

The actor attending the 2017 PaleyLive LA Spring Season "Prison Break" screening and conversation at The Paley Center for Media on March 29, 2017 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

"This fall marks 1 year since I received my informal autism diagnosis. Preceded by a self-diagnosis. Followed by a formal diagnosis," he shared.

The movie star acknowledged that the process of finding these results was lengthy and flawed and also called for it to be updated regarding adults. At the same time, he recognized that having access to a diagnosis at all is a privilege not everyone enjoys.

Sarah Wayne Callies, the actor, and Dominic Purcell during the FOX 2016 PROGRAMMING PRESENTATION announcing FOX's new primetime schedule on Monday, May 16, at The Beacon Theatre in New York | Source: Getty Images

Sarah Wayne Callies, the actor, and Dominic Purcell during the FOX 2016 PROGRAMMING PRESENTATION announcing FOX's new primetime schedule on Monday, May 16, at The Beacon Theatre in New York | Source: Getty Images

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Furthermore, he expressed that his autism is an inherent part of who he is and something he cannot change. The actor also thanked all those who offered him extra understanding and patience at the time.

No More "Prison Break"

Before this revelation, the 2000s heartthrob had dropped a bombshell in 2020 about his acting career. The Golden Globe nominee announced in a since-deleted Instagram post that he was not interested in reprising his role as Michael Scofield in "Prison Break," after it was revived in 2017.

Téa Leoni as Elizabeth McCord and the actor as Senator Mark Hanson in "Madam Secretary" dated 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Téa Leoni as Elizabeth McCord and the actor as Senator Mark Hanson in "Madam Secretary" dated 2019 | Source: Getty Images

He stated, "I'm out. Of PB. Officially," clarifying that his decision wasn't due to social media backlash but because he no longer wants to portray straight characters, as their stories have been extensively told.

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This star also acknowledged that his decision might disappoint fans who wanted him in the project. However, he wanted to consider those upset by the idea of a gay actor playing a straight character, stating, "That's your work." This news came ahead of a planned sixth season, which never materialized.

The actor on the set of "Prison Break," 2016 | Source: Getty Images

The actor on the set of "Prison Break," 2016 | Source: Getty Images

However, his exit from "Prison Break" and any possible spin-offs came as a huge surprise, as just a few years earlier, in March 2017, the actor attended a screening and conversation in Beverly Hills, California. He had a more mature look, with closely cropped gray hair and a gray beard.

The actor attending the "Prison Break" screening and conversation on March 29, 2017, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

The actor attending the "Prison Break" screening and conversation on March 29, 2017, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

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His appearance was similar to a few months earlier, on January 11, 2017, when he was seen at the Television Critics Association Winter Press Tour. Pictured alongside Purcell, he sported a nearly buzzed, fully gray hairstyle that added a distinguished aura to his demeanor.

Dominic Purcell and the actor speak onstage during the Fox portion of the 2017 Winter Television Critics Association Press Tour on January 11, 2017, in Pasadena, California. | Source: Getty Images

Dominic Purcell and the actor speak onstage during the Fox portion of the 2017 Winter Television Critics Association Press Tour on January 11, 2017, in Pasadena, California. | Source: Getty Images

For this solo shot, the 2000s heartthrob had a clean-shaven face that emphasized his sharp features. His physique remained steady, reflecting a healthy, fuller build compared to his earlier, leaner years.

The actor during the Fox portion of the 2017 Winter Television Critics Association Press Tour on January 11, 2017, in Pasadena, California. | Source: Getty Images

The actor during the Fox portion of the 2017 Winter Television Critics Association Press Tour on January 11, 2017, in Pasadena, California. | Source: Getty Images

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His Changing Looks

However, Wentworth Miller had actually started to change in appearance years earlier and was heavily criticized for it. He eventually responded to the comments. In 2016, LADBible posted a now-deleted meme that fat-shamed him, and he responded by revealing his past battles with suicidal thoughts in a since-deleted Facebook post.

He admitted, "Ashamed and in pain, I considered myself damaged goods. And the voices in my head urged me down the path to self-destruction." Miller also revealed that photos of his weight gain in 2010 were taken during the "lowest point in my adult life," when he relied on food for comfort while struggling with his mental health.

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Wentworth Miller visits "Extra" at their New York studios on January 21, 2016, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller visits "Extra" at their New York studios on January 21, 2016, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

"I was looking everywhere for relief/comfort/distraction. And I turned to food," the British-born, Brooklyn-raised Hollywood actor wrote. He even admitted that seeing those images again reminded him of his endurance and perseverance. The actor saw himself as a survivor, having overcome these challenges in silence.

Wentworth Miller visits "Extra" at their New York studios on January 21, 2016, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller visits "Extra" at their New York studios on January 21, 2016, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

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It was clear to see that he had faced his troubles after 2010 and he looked much healthier in later appearance. For example, at the January 2015 screening of "The Loft" in Los Angeles, he looked in shape but his age began to show particularly due to the gray hair on his temples.

Wentworth Miller attends the screening of "The Loft" on January 27, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller attends the screening of "The Loft" on January 27, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Acting Again and Coming Out

After the original run of "Prison Break" ended in 2009, the actor had semi-retired for a while due to several reasons. But he made a surprising return in 2013 with a huge revelation. He officially came out as a gay man in the most memorable way: declining an invitation to the St. Petersburg International Film Festival in Russia.

Wentworth Miller attends a press conference to promote Chevrolet during his visit to Shanghai on October 17, 2010 in Shanghai, China | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller attends a press conference to promote Chevrolet during his visit to Shanghai on October 17, 2010 in Shanghai, China | Source: Getty Images

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In an open letter, Miller declared he would not attend, citing Russia's anti-LGBTQ legislation and simultaneously revealing his sexual orientation for the first time. "As someone who has enjoyed visiting Russia in the past and can also claim a degree of Russian ancestry, it would make me happy to say yes," the actor expressed. "However, as a gay man, I must decline."

Wentworth Miller attends the press conference for "Resident Evil: Afterlife", following last night's World Premiere, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel on September 3, 2010 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller attends the press conference for "Resident Evil: Afterlife", following last night's World Premiere, at the Grand Hyatt Hotel on September 3, 2010 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

He also shared his deep concern over the Russian government's stance and treatment of LGBTQ individuals, stating that the situation was unacceptable. Additionally, the actor emphasized his inability to participate in a celebratory event hosted by a country that systematically denies LGBTQ people the fundamental right to live and love openly.

Wentworth Miller attends the World Premiere of "Resident Evil: Afterlife" at Roppongi Hills on September 2, 2010 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller attends the World Premiere of "Resident Evil: Afterlife" at Roppongi Hills on September 2, 2010 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

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After coming out, Miller's love life attracted public attention, with rumors circulating about a relationship with Canadian actor Luke MacFarlane of "Brothers & Sisters" fame, who came out in April 2008. The two were spotted together in Los Angeles that year, initially trying to avoid being photographed, but eventually seen walking side-by-side and smiling.

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The Height of His Fame

Although Miller is still acting and has made many public declarations, it seems that he's no longer interested in active Hollywood stardom. The 2000s were the height of his career, and he was seen everywhere. For example, in March 2007, he attended a press conference and a fan meeting in Seoul, South Korea. He was pictured holding two stuffed animals and a drawing of himself.

Wentworth Miller appears at a press conference and a fan meeting on March 23, 2007, in Seoul, South Korea. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller appears at a press conference and a fan meeting on March 23, 2007, in Seoul, South Korea. | Source: Getty Images

Shortly afterward, during a press event in Shanghai, China, he was seen with a clean-shaven face that showed off his defined jawline. The actor wore a navy blue dress shirt as he smiled at the camera.

Wentworth Miller during an interview on March 17, 2009, in Shanghai, China. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller during an interview on March 17, 2009, in Shanghai, China. | Source: Getty Images

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The next month, he attended a commercial event and arrived for the occasion wearing glasses and a gray jacket over a white unbuttoned shirt paired with black pants.

Wentworth Miller arrives for a commercial event on April 18, 2009, in Shanghai, China. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller arrives for a commercial event on April 18, 2009, in Shanghai, China. | Source: Getty Images

Three months later, this 2000s heartthrob appeared on the set of "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" in New York. His look was more casual and practical, fitting for his role, and he seemed to have a slightly fuller face.

Wentworth Miller on the set of "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," 2009 | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller on the set of "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit," 2009 | Source: Getty Images

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In July, the television star attended the Fox TCA Party in Los Angeles and opted for a white open-collared shirt with dark trousers for the event.

Wentworth Miller at the FOX TCA party on July 23, 2007, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller at the FOX TCA party on July 23, 2007, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images

During the "Prison Break" press conference in Beverly Hills, California, in September, Miller was seen again, but his looks had remained. He was pictured wearing a light blue checkered shirt paired with jeans.

Wentworth Miller at the "Prison Break" press conference on September 14, 2007, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller at the "Prison Break" press conference on September 14, 2007, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

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Attending Events a Year Earlier

On January 10, 2006, Miller attended the 32nd Annual People's Choice Awards, where he accepted the award for Favorite New TV Drama for "Prison Break." He maintained a polished and formal appearance, and his physique appeared consistent.

Wentworth Miller at the 32nd Annual People's Choice Awards on January 10, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller at the 32nd Annual People's Choice Awards on January 10, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

During the Fox 2006 Golden Globes after party with Sarah Wayne Callies, Miller's appearance was similar to the previous week. He wore a black suit, which added a touch of casual elegance to his look, and his body shape remained consistent, still lean and athletic.

Sarah Wayne Callies and Wentworth Miller attend the Fox 2006 Golden Globes after party on January 16, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

Sarah Wayne Callies and Wentworth Miller attend the Fox 2006 Golden Globes after party on January 16, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

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At the Fox Winter TCA party, his looks remained sharp and stylish. His hair was short, neatly cut, and slightly spiked at the front. He wore a brown coat over a darker sweater.

Wentworth Miller attends the Fox Winter TCA party on January 17, 2006, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller attends the Fox Winter TCA party on January 17, 2006, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

During this outing in May 2006 in Los Angeles, the actor looked more casual. His overall demeanor was laid-back and comfortable, suitable for a normal day at the airport.

Wentworth Miller seen on May 21, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller seen on May 21, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

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A few days later, he was seen talking over the phone in Los Angeles. He wore a blue t-shirt paired with beige pants. His physique was lean, with no significant changes from earlier in the month.

Wentworth Miller pictured on May 23, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller pictured on May 23, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

The following month, the actor attended the 2006 Teen Choice Awards at the Gibson Amphitheatre, where he opted for a more polished casual look. He wore a black button-down shirt, left untucked.

Wentworth attends the 2006 Teen Choice Awards on August 20, 2006, in Universal City, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth attends the 2006 Teen Choice Awards on August 20, 2006, in Universal City, California. | Source: Getty Images

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At the 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards, Miller showcased a formal and elegant look with a classic black tuxedo with a crisp white dress shirt. He was also in a black bow tie.

Wentworth Miller during 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on August 27, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller during 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on August 27, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

During his interview at the Four Seasons Hotel the next day, the actor's appearance was slightly more relaxed but still sharp. He wore a checkered, open-collared shirt with a baseball cap.

Wentworth Miller talks at the Four Season's Hotel on August 28, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller talks at the Four Season's Hotel on August 28, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

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On October 9, 2006, at the Majestic Hotel in Cannes, France, Miller was seen in a polished outfit with short, but elegantly styled hair.

Wentworth Miller photographed at the Majestic Hotel on October 9, 2006, in Cannes, France. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller photographed at the Majestic Hotel on October 9, 2006, in Cannes, France. | Source: Getty Images

During this appearance at the FOX Fall 2006 Eco-Casino Party, Miller's look was slightly more casual but still stylish. He wore a dark, fitted jacket over a gray t-shirt, which gave him a more rugged and contemporary look.

Wentworth Miller attends the FOX Fall 2006 Eco-Casino party on October 23, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller attends the FOX Fall 2006 Eco-Casino party on October 23, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

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His Breakout Role in 2005

All the appearances above wouldn't have been possible without the show that made him famous: "Prison Break." It premiered this year, and the actor immediately captured attention for his good looks. At the May 2005 Fox Primetime Upfront event, Miller displayed his signature polished look that wouldn't change for several years: short, neat hair, clean-shaven face, and lean physique.

Wentworth Miller during 2005/2006 FOX Primetime UpFront on May 19, 2005, in Central Park, New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller during 2005/2006 FOX Primetime UpFront on May 19, 2005, in Central Park, New York City. | Source: Getty Images

While on the set of "Prison Break," that same year, he stayed true to his role and his previous looks. He kept his hair short and neat and displayed no facial hair.

Wentworth Miller on the set of "Prison Break," 2005 | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller on the set of "Prison Break," 2005 | Source: Getty Images

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This other photo from the "Prison Break" set showed Miller maintaining his signature style. His facial structure was prominently displayed as he looked at his co-star, Purcell.

Dominic Purcell and Wentworth Miller on the set of "Prison Break," 2005 | Source: Getty Images

Dominic Purcell and Wentworth Miller on the set of "Prison Break," 2005 | Source: Getty Images

At the Hangar 8 event in August 2005 in Santa Monica, the actor showed only a few changes. His hair remained short, but there was a slightly more textured look.

Wentworth Miller attends "Prison Break" launch party on August 22, 2005, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller attends "Prison Break" launch party on August 22, 2005, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images

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At the October 2005 Fox Fall Casino Party, Miller sported a tan and a polished casual look with a dark jacket and light-colored shirt.

Wentworth Miller during FOX Fall Casino party on October 24, 2005, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller during FOX Fall Casino party on October 24, 2005, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

The next month, he appeared on "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," and kept his outfit simple with a black suit paired with a light blue shirt unbuttoned at the collar. His hair was short and neatly groomed, and he remained clean-shaven.

Wentworth Miller during an interview with host Jay Leno on November 21, 2005 | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller during an interview with host Jay Leno on November 21, 2005 | Source: Getty Images

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A Young Heartthrob from the Early 2000s

The actor had gotten notoriety just a few years early at other events. In August 2003, Miller was seen during a photocall at the 60th Venice Film Festival. He had a clean-shaven face and short, closely cropped hair. His complexion was smooth, and his body was fit.

Wentworth Miller poses during a photocall at the 60th Venice Film Festival August 29, 2003, in Venice, Italy. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller poses during a photocall at the 60th Venice Film Festival August 29, 2003, in Venice, Italy. | Source: Getty Images

The next month, the actor attended a press conference at the Toronto International Film Festival. His hairstyle remained short and neat, similar to the previous month. He had a fresh face but stood out among the other heartthrobs of the time.

Wentworth Miller attends the press conference at the 2003 Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2003, in Toronto, Canada. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller attends the press conference at the 2003 Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2003, in Toronto, Canada. | Source: Getty Images

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Miller was seen at another event the following month at ArcLight Cinemas in Hollywood, where he had slightly longer hair and could easily be compared to actors like Henry Cavill.

Wentworth Miller attends the Hollywood Film Festival Screening of "The Human Stain" on October 21, 2003 in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

Wentworth Miller attends the Hollywood Film Festival Screening of "The Human Stain" on October 21, 2003 in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

Miller's career and personal life have been marked by significant transformations. He has openly embraced his identity and faced health challenges, all while continuing to evolve as an actor. His willingness to prioritize his values over traditional Hollywood expectations makes him a unique figure and inspiration in the industry.

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The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. Other international suicide helplines can be found at befrienders.org.

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