Jeremy Meeks, famously known as the ‘Hot Felon’, has had his life transformed since his mugshot went viral 11 years ago. Initially arrested in Stockton, California on June 18, 2014, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, Meeks became an internet sensation after the Stockton Police Department shared his mugshot. The image quickly circulated online, earning Meeks the moniker of “the hot felon” and catapulting him to unexpected fame. Before gaining notoriety, Meeks had a tumultuous upbringing marked by familial hardships and a history of criminal activities, including spending over a decade in juvenile detention and prison.
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In a podcast interview in 2021, Meeks opened up about his challenging childhood, stating, “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 mum’s best friend.” Despite his troubled past, Meeks released an autobiography in 2024 detailing his journey. Reflecting on his life post-prison in a BuzzFeed interview, he expressed gratitude for the opportunities that came his way, remarking, “It’s been a wild, wild ride, but I’m so grateful. I’m not taking anything for granted.”
Jeremy Ray Meeks, now a model, actor, and internet personality, rose to prominence in 2014 following the viral success of his mugshot. Besides appearing in various films like Trigger, Secret Society, and True to the Game 2 and 3, Meeks has also walked the runways for renowned fashion designers such as Philipp Plein and Tommy Hilfiger. His captivating blue eyes in the viral mugshot endeared him to many, leading to a surge in popularity. Meeks leveraged his newfound fame into modelling contracts, acting roles, and book deals, receiving multiple offers even while still incarcerated.
Meeks’ encounter with the law resulted from his arrest in 2014 for possession of a semi-automatic handgun and involvement in gang activities. Following a conviction for felony firearm possession, he served 13 months in jail before being released in early 2016. Throughout his criminal history, which included prior charges like grand theft, identity theft, and forgery dating back to 2002, Meeks faced multiple periods of incarceration. Despite his checkered past, Meeks found ways to turn his life around after his release from prison.
Post-release, Meeks wasted no time in capitalizing on his fame, venturing into modelling, fashion designing, and acting. He signed a multi-million-dollar deal with Fashion Concept GmbH in 2019 to launch his clothing line and has since showcased his luxury collections on various platforms. Meeks’ foray into the film industry has also been significant, with multiple movie appearances and the release of his autobiography in 2024. Expressing his desire to share his life story authentically, Meeks highlighted his vulnerability and hopes for connection with his audience through his book.
Formerly married to Melissa Meeks, Jeremy’s personal life made headlines following his high-profile relationship with Topshop heiress Chloe Green. The couple’s public appearances sparked speculation and garnered media attention, ultimately leading to Jeremy’s separation from Melissa in 2018 after nearly a decade of marriage. Reflecting on his relationships, Meeks revealed his single status in 2019, emphasizing his intention to focus on self-improvement and personal growth. As a father of two boys, Jeremy has navigated co-parenting dynamics while balancing his evolving career and personal life.
Jeremy Meeks’ journey from a troubled past to international stardom serves as a compelling narrative of resilience and transformation. His ability to leverage adversity into opportunity, coupled with his determination to chart a new course post-incarceration, exemplifies the power of second chances and personal reinvention. As Meeks continues to explore diverse avenues ranging from modelling to acting to music, his story underscores the complexities of human experiences and the potential for redemption and success amidst challenges.