A Hidden Bookworm
While many know Justin Hartley for his roles on screen, few realize he’s also an avid reader. In interviews and social media posts, Hartley has often mentioned how reading fuels his creativity and helps him unwind after long filming days.
“Books are like training for the mind,” he once said. “They make me a better actor—and a better person.”
Hartley’s reading list is surprisingly diverse. From American classics to contemporary thrillers and memoirs, his tastes reflect his curiosity and love for storytelling.
Favorite Genres and Authors
Hartley has cited authors like Ernest Hemingway, Joan Didion, and Cormac McCarthy as major influences. He enjoys complex characters, moral ambiguity, and poetic prose. More recently, he’s praised Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad and Celeste Ng’s Little Fires Everywhere for their emotional depth.
When prepping for roles, he sometimes seeks books that reflect the mindset of his character. While playing Kevin on This Is Us, he read works on grief, addiction, and identity to deepen his portrayal.
“Books give you access to someone else’s inner world. That’s the heart of acting too.”
A Passion He Shares
At home, Hartley often shares reading time with his wife, Sofia. They recommend titles to each other and sometimes read the same book simultaneously. He’s also introduced his daughter Isabella to some of his favorites, hoping to instill in her the same lifelong love for literature.
For fans, it’s refreshing to see a star who not only entertains but seeks to understand the world more deeply—page by page.
🏆 The Awards Behind the Talent: Justin Hartley’s Recognition in Hollywood
From Soap Operas to the Spotlight
Justin Hartley’s acting journey may have started on daytime television, but his talent has steadily gained recognition across genres and mediums. Over the past decade, his awards and nominations reflect the increasing depth and diversity of his work.
He first received acclaim for his portrayal of Kevin Pearson on This Is Us, a role that brought him into dramatic territory previously unseen in his career. The role earned him multiple nominations at the Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of the show’s ensemble cast—which won the award twice, in 2018 and 2019.
“Those wins meant a lot because they came from my peers. It was about the team, the whole cast, the story we told together,” he said.
Leading Man Status
As Hartley began taking on more prominent lead roles—particularly in Tracker and independent films—critics started praising his command of screen presence, emotional nuance, and understated strength.
In 2022, he received a Critics Choice Award nomination for Best Actor in a Drama Series, solidifying his place among TV’s most reliable performers. He was also honored at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival and has earned nominations from the People’s Choice Awards, proving his popularity with fans.
Beyond Acting
What’s notable is that Hartley is gaining recognition not only as an actor but also as a producer and emerging writer. Industry insiders have noted that his projects at Change Jar Productions are increasingly earning attention at film festivals for their originality and heart.
Hartley has said awards are “not the reason I do the work,” but he remains humbled by the recognition. For him, each nomination is a reminder that authentic storytelling matters.
🎤 Public Speaking and Personal Impact: How Justin Hartley Uses His Voice for Change
A Thoughtful Advocate
Justin Hartley doesn’t seek headlines, but when he speaks, people listen. Over the years, he’s quietly become a thoughtful public speaker, especially on issues related to mental health, education, and equity in storytelling.
He often participates in panels, university lectures, and charity events—always choosing moments where he feels his voice can truly make a difference.
“Fame gives you a platform. I think it’s our responsibility to use that platform wisely,” he said during a 2023 mental health symposium.
Supporting Mental Health and Education
One of Hartley’s major passions is mental health awareness. Having portrayed characters grappling with addiction, loss, and trauma, he often uses his own experiences to promote compassion and openness.
He also supports education initiatives, especially in underserved communities. Through scholarship programs and partnerships with nonprofits, he funds resources for aspiring artists and students who dream of working in film and television.
Hartley rarely posts about these contributions. He prefers private impact over public performance.
Connecting Authentically
What sets Hartley apart is his authenticity. He doesn’t shout or sermonize. Instead, he shares personal stories, listens to others, and encourages nuanced conversation.
Whether mentoring a young actor or speaking to high school students, Hartley emphasizes kindness, patience, and self-worth. “It’s okay to not have it all figured out,” he often says. “Just keep showing up. That’s where growth begins.”
