Actor Ian Somerhalder has unexpectedly stated that he views his acting career as firmly in the past. The Vampire Diaries and Lost star has been outspoken about his decision to move away from Hollywood in recent years, choosing instead to focus on farming, entrepreneurship, and raising his family.
At the Environmental Media Awards Gala, Somerhalder candidly shared his current priorities with People magazine, saying, “I believe it’s in the past.” I do.” The actor admitted that while he and his wife, Nikki Reed, have regained the rights to their short-lived series V Wars, he’s unsure if they’ll ever be able to revive it as a television show.
“We’re building three companies at the same time, raising kids,” Somerhalder explained, highlighting the demanding nature of his new endeavors. Reed echoed his sentiments, telling the outlet that she has no immediate plans to return to acting, as she is currently “running a company full time and just launched another.”
Somerhalder’s shift away from acting comes after a successful career that spanned hit shows like The Vampire Diaries and Lost. The actor recalled the moment he informed his management team of his decision to retire from the industry, saying, “‘Hey, this is the only thing I’ve ever known that’s ever sustained my family, and I’m walking away from it.'”
However, Somerhalder made it clear that his decision was not one of necessity but rather a conscious choice to prioritize his passions outside of the entertainment world. “Once you reach a certain level, you’re like, ‘Okay, I want to focus on family and the future of farming, food, energy, and big things,'” he shared.
The actor’s new pursuits include co-founding a tech-powered supplement brand called The Absorption Company as well as launching several documentaries, such as Kiss the Ground, Common Ground, and Ground Swell. Somerhalder and Reed have also moved out of Los Angeles to pursue a life of farming and healthy living.
“I say this in all humility, in all respect, but I would much rather do this than go spend two months in some city, shooting a TV show away from my family or transporting my family back and forth,” Somerhalder explained.
While the prospect of a Vampire Diaries or V Wars revival may excite fans, Somerhalder’s focus appears firmly fixed on his new endeavors. He acknowledged the potential for a V Wars return but emphasized the challenges of balancing his current business ventures and family life.
Somerhalder’s decision to step away from acting and embrace a more grounded, entrepreneurial lifestyle is a testament to the actor’s personal growth and evolving priorities. He and Reed are building their farming and wellness empire, but it’s unclear if the spotlight will ever entice Somerhalder to return to the screen. As he embarks on a new chapter of his life, he keeps his sights firmly fixed on the past.