Ian Somerhalder, the renowned actor known for his roles in “Lost” and “The Vampire Diaries,” recently reflected on his career journey and the reasons behind his decision to take a break from acting. In a conversation with PEOPLE, Somerhalder shared his thoughts on the significance of his past roles and the impact they had on his life.
Looking back on his time on “Lost,” Somerhalder described it as a “very humbling experience.” He reminisced about his character Boone’s untimely demise in the first season of the show, which was a challenging moment for him. Despite the initial setback, Somerhalder found solace in the opportunity to work on environmental conservation projects during his time in Hawaii. This experience ignited his passion for protecting the environment and advocating for sustainability.
Transitioning to “The Vampire Diaries,” Somerhalder highlighted the show’s massive global reach, with nearly 1.2 billion people tuning in to watch the series. He emphasized the role of streaming platforms in introducing his work to a new audience and expanding his impact beyond the screen. Grateful for the platform that these shows provided him, Somerhalder expressed his appreciation for the opportunities to advocate for causes close to his heart, such as animal welfare and soil health regeneration.
Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Somerhalder revealed that he made a conscious decision to step away from acting five years ago. After his involvement in projects like “V Wars,” he shifted his focus to building companies, producing films, and prioritizing his family life. Choosing to prioritize his family and pursue endeavors related to farming, food, and energy, Somerhalder emphasized the importance of staying grounded and focusing on meaningful initiatives that align with his values.
In his current endeavors, Somerhalder is actively involved in projects like the Greater Ground initiative, which supports farmers in producing food for both pets and humans. By partnering with like-minded individuals and organizations, Somerhalder is dedicated to making a positive impact in the world of agriculture and sustainability. For him, the fulfillment derived from these meaningful collaborations far outweighs the pursuit of accolades or external validation.
As Somerhalder continues to navigate his path beyond the spotlight, his commitment to family, environmental causes, and community-driven initiatives remains unwavering. By leveraging his platform and resources for the greater good, Somerhalder exemplifies a holistic approach to success that transcends traditional notions of fame and fortune. With a renewed sense of purpose and passion, Somerhalder’s journey serves as an inspiration for others to follow their hearts and make a difference in the world around them.