The man who gained the title of ‘world’s hottest felon’ after his mugshot became a viral sensation has revealed that he has chosen to remain celibate since rising to fame.
Jeremy Meeks’ story is quite an intriguing one if you’re not already familiar with it.
In 2014, a Facebook post by the Stockton Police Department featuring Meeks’ mugshot highlighted his striking blue eyes and well-defined cheekbones, capturing the attention of the internet and amassing a considerable fan following.
Little did Meeks know that this sudden attention would catapult him into celebrity status. At the time of the viral post, he was facing charges related to firearms and gang involvement, as reported by NBC affiliate KCRA 3. However, upon his release, Meeks transitioned into the fashion industry, modeling for designers such as Philipp Plein and Tommy Hilfiger.
He eventually ventured into acting and secured a lucrative fashion contract, which allowed him to establish and develop his own brand.
Meeks has been open about his tough upbringing. On the What’s Your Water podcast in 2019, he shared: “Both of my parents were heroin addicts. I was a heroin baby … My childhood was very dark. My dad committed a murder when I was nine months old and killed my mom’s best friend.”
After spending a decade in and out of prison, Meeks was released for the final time in 2016, embarking on a journey to stardom.
Now at 41, Meeks’ life has transformed significantly, as have his personal goals.
During the Dutch III: International Gangster premiere in July, Meeks disclosed that he has been celibate for the past few years.
In 2018, after a decade of marriage, Meeks divorced Melissa Meeks, with whom he shares a son. The separation followed his involvement with British actress Chloe Green, who gave birth to his son in the same year as his divorce.
In 2024, Meeks confirmed his single status, telling PEOPLE: “I am single. I’m trying to focus on myself.”
In a video clip, when asked about his ‘biggest turn on’, Meeks explained his decision to focus on himself, saying, “I don’t have a girl. I’ve been celibate for almost three years.”
Regarding his choice to remain celibate, Meeks responded, “Cause I’m not being distracted.”
Meeks has previously spoken about how his newfound fame has enabled him to provide for his loved ones. After signing with White Cross Management, he told ABC: “I’m in a place where I will be able to provide for my family and really change my life.”
He expressed, “I’m in a place in my life where I am extremely vulnerable and want to tell my story, the whole story, and hope that people can connect to it.”
In a 2020 interview with Extra, Meeks also mentioned being single but noted improved relationships with his ex-wife and Green, emphasizing their collaborative co-parenting efforts. “We’re all co-parenting. They are incredible mothers,” he said.
Upon learning of his celibacy, online users expressed support for his decision.
One user commented: “Good for him. That’s a lot of self-control especially when you are hot,” while another remarked, “Good for him… glad life has turned around for him.”
Another person noted: “These guys be running the streets for years, until they’re tired then they wanna promote staying single and want to be a teacher.”