Jake Borelli - A Look At His Acting Life
There's a good chance you know the face, maybe even the name, of Jake Borelli. He's that American actor who has, you know, popped up in some pretty popular shows, making a real mark on our screens. You might have seen him bringing characters to life in places like The Thundermans, or perhaps, more recently, spending a lot of time in the operating rooms of Grey's Anatomy. His presence, it seems, just tends to stick with you, whether he's making you laugh or tugging at your heartstrings.
He's a person who, in a way, has really found his stride in the acting world, building up a body of work that many people have come to appreciate. From his earlier appearances to his more prominent parts, Jake Borelli has, for quite some time now, been a familiar face to many viewers. It’s almost like he’s grown up on screen for some of us, which is, you know, a pretty neat thing to observe.
And so, as we look at his path, there's a lot to talk about, from where he started to the big moments in his career and even some of the personal things he's shared. We'll get into, like, what makes his journey so interesting, and why he’s become such a talked-about figure in television, especially with some of the recent news about his roles. It's really quite a story, you see.
Table of Contents
- The Story of Jake Borelli
- What Roles Defined Jake Borelli Early On?
- Why Did Jake Borelli Leave Grey's Anatomy?
- The Impact of Jake Borelli's Character, Levi Schmitt
- How Did Jake Borelli's Personal Life Intersect with His Career?
- What is Next for Jake Borelli After Grey's?
- Jake Borelli's Presence Beyond the Screen
- Jake Borelli - A Summary of His Journey
The Story of Jake Borelli
When you start to think about Jake Borelli, it's pretty interesting to consider where he began. He came into the world on May 13, 1991, in Ohio, which is, you know, a place with a lot of roots for him. His folks are Linda and Mike Borelli, and he grew up with two brothers, Ben and Zack, in Columbus. So, it's clear he comes from a family background, a pretty normal upbringing, in a way. He is, by all accounts, an American, with a white ethnic background, which is, like, a part of his story.
It's also worth noting that, from a young age, Jake Borelli had a real fondness for art. He actually thought about going to art school, which is, you know, a different path from acting. It shows he has, perhaps, a creative spirit that extends beyond just performing. This early interest in art might, in some respects, even feed into his acting, allowing him to bring a certain depth to his characters. It’s pretty cool to think about those early passions, actually, and how they might shape someone’s later life.
His journey into acting, though, is what really brought him into the public eye. He's known for being an actor and also a director, which is, like, a neat combination of skills. His work on shows and movies like Grey's Anatomy, The Thing About Harry, and #realityhigh has really put him on the map. These roles, you know, are what many people recognize him for, and they've helped shape his public identity as a performer. It's pretty clear he's been busy for quite some time now, building up a solid career.
Here’s a quick look at some personal details about Jake Borelli:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jake Borelli |
| Date of Birth | May 13, 1991 |
| Place of Birth | Ohio, USA (Columbus) |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | Linda Borelli, Mike Borelli |
| Siblings | Ben Borelli, Zack Borelli |
| Occupation | Actor, Director |
| Known For | Grey's Anatomy, The Thundermans, The Thing About Harry, #realityhigh |
| Sexual Orientation | Gay (came out in 2018) |
| Partner | Chase Williamson (since 2022) |
What Roles Defined Jake Borelli Early On?
When we talk about Jake Borelli's acting journey, it’s interesting to consider what roles really helped him get noticed, you know, before he became such a big name on a certain medical drama. He was, for instance, a part of The Thundermans, which is, like, a show that many younger viewers would know. That role, in a way, gave him some early exposure and allowed him to, perhaps, hone his craft in front of an audience that was just starting to recognize him.
Then, there were also movies like #realityhigh, which came out in 2017. These kinds of projects, you know, often provide a different kind of acting experience compared to television series. They allowed Jake Borelli to explore different characters and story types, showing his range a little bit more. It's almost like these earlier parts were building blocks, helping him prepare for the bigger roles that would come his way, which is, you know, pretty typical for someone starting out in the entertainment business.
These roles, while perhaps not as widely discussed as his later work, were, actually, quite important for Jake Borelli. They helped him gain experience, meet other people in the industry, and, crucially, show what he could do. It’s pretty common for actors to have these foundational roles that, in some respects, set the stage for their future successes. So, even if they weren't massive blockbusters, they were, you know, certainly significant steps in his acting life.
Why Did Jake Borelli Leave Grey's Anatomy?
This is, like, a question many fans have been asking, and it’s a pretty big deal when a popular person leaves a show that’s been on for so long. News about Jake Borelli stepping away from Grey’s Anatomy, where he played Dr. Levi Schmitt, started to come out in May 2024. He had been on the show since season 14, and for the past five seasons, he was, actually, a regular cast member. So, his leaving was, you know, quite a moment for those who follow the series.
There were, it seems, a few different ideas floating around about why this was happening. Some reports, like from Deadline, suggested that Jake Borelli was, in fact, let go to help save money. This happened after the show got picked up for season 21, but with, you know, a bit of a budget cut. So, in that case, it sounds like a business decision, which is, you know, something that happens sometimes in television. It's not always about the actor's performance, but more about the financial side of things.
On the other hand, some people, like fans, had their own thoughts. They wondered if it might be connected to the emotional struggles his character, Levi Schmitt, was going through on the show. However, the show itself never said that was the reason, so that was, you know, just some talk among viewers. It’s pretty common for fans to try and piece together reasons when big changes happen on their favorite shows, which is, like, a natural thing to do.
Even though he was leaving as a regular, the plan was for Jake Borelli to come back for a few episodes in season 21. This was, apparently, to help finish up Levi Schmitt’s story, which is, you know, a nice way to give some closure to the character and the fans. It’s a pretty thoughtful way to handle a departure, allowing for a proper send-off rather than just having a character disappear. So, while he was leaving, it wasn't, like, a complete goodbye all at once.
Jake Borelli himself, it turns out, felt pretty sad about saying goodbye to Levi Schmitt. He talked about being "heartbroken" to leave the role, which is, you know, completely understandable after spending so many years with a character. He also, it seems, shared some thoughts about his character getting a happy ending and even had an idea for a spin-off show set in Texas. These feelings, you know, show how much he cared about the part and the people he worked with, which is, like, a very human response to such a big change.
The Impact of Jake Borelli's Character, Levi Schmitt
Dr. Levi Schmitt, the person Jake Borelli brought to life on Grey’s Anatomy, was, in a way, a very appealing and much-loved character. He first showed up at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital as a surgical resident, and it didn't take long for him to, you know, make connections. He formed a really sweet friendship with Jo Wilson, which was, like, a highlight for many viewers. These kinds of relationships, you know, really make a show feel real and lived-in, which is, perhaps, why people liked him so much.
Levi also, over time, got into a relationship with Nico Kim, which was, you know, a significant storyline. This relationship was, for many, a big part of Levi’s journey on the show. It was, actually, pretty important for representation, too, as Jake Borelli, a queer actor, was playing a queer character. This aspect, it seems, had a real impact, and he even spoke with GLAAD about how meaningful his character was in that regard. It's pretty clear that this role meant a lot, both to him and to many people watching.
The show, it seems, set up Levi Schmitt’s departure in a specific way. Monica Beltran, another character, put him up for a pediatric research job in Texas, which was, like, a reason for him to leave Grey Sloan. This move was, you know, seen in the November 14th episode, where Levi officially left for his new position. So, it wasn't just a sudden disappearance; there was, actually, a storyline created to explain his exit, which is, like, a way to respect the character’s journey.
Despite leaving for Texas, there’s been some talk about Levi Schmitt coming back to Seattle. His return was, you know, teased in a promo, which suggests that his story might not be completely finished yet. This kind of back-and-forth, actually, keeps fans guessing and, perhaps, shows that the character of Levi Schmitt, as played by Jake Borelli, has a lasting appeal. It’s pretty interesting how characters can, you know, continue to evolve even after they’ve supposedly left a show.
How Did Jake Borelli's Personal Life Intersect with His Career?
Jake Borelli’s personal life, in a way, became a public topic when he shared something very important about himself. He came out as gay in 2018, which was, you know, a significant moment. This decision to be open about his identity is, actually, pretty brave, especially when you’re a public figure. It shows a certain level of comfort and honesty that many people admire, which is, like, a good thing to see in someone in the public eye.
This personal revelation, it seems, also connected with his professional life, particularly with his role as Levi Schmitt on Grey’s Anatomy. As a queer actor playing a queer character, Jake Borelli’s presence on screen became, you know, even more meaningful. It allowed for a genuine portrayal that resonated with many viewers, and it contributed to important conversations about representation in media. It’s pretty clear that this aspect of his life has, in some respects, added another layer of impact to his work, making it about more than just acting.
Beyond his coming out, Jake Borelli has also, you know, shared parts of his romantic life. He has been dating Chase Williamson since 2022, which is, like, another piece of his personal story. These details, while private, sometimes become known when you’re a public figure, and they help people feel, perhaps, a stronger connection to the person behind the characters. It’s pretty natural for fans to be curious about the lives of those they admire, actually, and when someone shares, it can create a real bond.
His early life, too, shows some interesting personal aspects. Growing up in Columbus, Ohio, he had, as mentioned, a real fondness for art and even thought about going to art school. This interest, you know, suggests a creative side that isn't just limited to performing. It’s almost like he has a broader artistic sensibility, which could, in some respects, influence how he approaches his acting roles. It’s pretty cool to think about those hidden passions, you know, that people have outside of their main work.
What is Next for Jake Borelli After Grey's?
Even though Jake Borelli is, you know, stepping back as a regular on Grey’s Anatomy, his time with the show isn't completely over. He’s set to come back for a few episodes in season 21, which is, like, a way to bring some closure to Levi Schmitt’s storyline. This means fans will get to see him wrap things up, which is, you know, pretty good news for those who have followed his character for so long. It’s a nice way to say goodbye, actually, rather than just having the character disappear without a trace.
His character, Levi Schmitt, left Grey Sloan for a pediatric research position in Texas. But then, it was, apparently, teased that he would be returning to Seattle. This suggests that, in a way, his story might still have some twists and turns. It’s almost like the door is being left open for future appearances, or perhaps, for a different kind of storyline for Jake Borelli’s character. This kind of, you know, back-and-forth can keep things interesting for the audience, and it shows that the character is still very much a part of the show’s world, even if not full-time.
Jake Borelli himself, it seems, has even thought about what might come next for Levi Schmitt. He, you know, talked about an idea for a Texas spin-off, which is, like, a pretty fun concept. While this is just an idea he shared, it shows that he’s, actually, invested in the character’s future and enjoys exploring possibilities. It’s pretty common for actors to think about where their characters might go, especially after spending so much time playing them. So, while nothing is confirmed, it's clear Jake Borelli has, perhaps, some thoughts about what could be next for Levi.
Beyond Grey’s Anatomy, Jake Borelli is, you know, an actor and a director, so he has other creative avenues. His past work includes movies like The Thing About Harry and #realityhigh, which shows he’s not just limited to one type of project. This suggests that he will, perhaps, continue to take on different roles and explore various stories. It’s pretty exciting to think about what other kinds of characters Jake Borelli might bring to life in the future, which is, like, a good thing for his fans.
Jake Borelli's Presence Beyond the Screen
Jake Borelli isn't just someone you see on television; he also makes appearances at events, which is, like, a part of being a public figure. For example, he was at the 2024 People's Choice Awards, which took place at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, in February 2024. These kinds of events, you know, give fans a chance to see him outside of his acting roles and get a glimpse of his personality. It's pretty common for actors to attend these gatherings, actually, and it helps them connect with the public.
He also, it seems, attended the GLAAD Media Awards at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, California, in March 2023. This appearance is, you know, particularly meaningful given his personal journey and his role as a queer actor playing a queer character. As mentioned earlier, he even spoke with GLAAD’s Tony Morrison about leaving Grey’s Anatomy and the impact of his character. These events are, like, important platforms for him to use his voice and connect with causes that are close to his heart, which is, you know, a very good thing.
These public appearances, in a way, allow Jake Borelli to show different sides of himself. They’re not just about promoting his work, but also about being present in various communities and supporting important causes. It’s almost like he’s using his platform for something more than just entertainment, which is, like, a really admirable quality. It’s pretty clear that he’s, in some respects, a person who cares about more than just his acting roles, which is, you know, something that resonates with many people.
His involvement with organizations like GLAAD, for instance, highlights his commitment to advocacy and representation. This shows that Jake Borelli is, actually, someone who uses his public profile to make a positive difference. It’s pretty powerful when actors do that, you know, because they have a voice that reaches a lot of people. So, his presence beyond the screen is, in many ways, just as important as his work on it, which is, like, a good thing to remember.
Jake Borelli - A Summary of His Journey
Jake Borelli, born in Ohio in 1991, has, you know, certainly made a name for himself in the acting world. From his early roles in shows like The Thundermans and movies such as #realityhigh, he built a foundation that led him to his most recognized part as Dr. Levi Schmitt on Grey's Anatomy. His time on the medical drama, which began in season 14, saw him become a beloved regular, forming memorable friendships and relationships, like with Jo Wilson and Nico Kim.
His departure from Grey's Anatomy in May 2024, after being a series regular for five seasons, was, you know, big news. Reports suggested it was, perhaps, a cost-saving measure, while fans had their own ideas about character storylines. Despite leaving as a regular, Jake Borelli is set to return for a few episodes in season 21 to, you know, wrap up Levi Schmitt’s story, which is, like, a thoughtful way to handle things. He even expressed being "heartbroken" to say goodbye, showing his deep connection to the role.
Beyond his acting, Jake Borelli has, actually, shared significant parts of his personal life, coming out as gay in 2018 and dating Chase Williamson since 2022. His role as a queer actor playing a queer character on Grey's Anatomy had, you know, a real impact, and he has used his platform to discuss representation, including at events like the GLAAD Media Awards. His journey, it seems, combines professional achievements with a personal openness that resonates with many, making him, you know, a pretty inspiring figure.
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Pictures of Jake Borelli
Pictures of Jake Borelli
Pictures of Jake Borelli
