Jacob Elordi has captured global attention with his compelling performances in projects like The Kissing Booth, Euphoria, and most recently, his portrayal of Elvis Presley in Priscilla. While Jacob shines on screen, much of his grounded nature and strong work ethic can be attributed to his upbringing, particularly the unwavering support of his parents, John and Melissa Elordi. This article delves into the life of John Elordi, Jacob’s father, exploring his background, his influence on Jacob, and the integral role he plays in his son’s soaring career.
John Elordi’s journey began far from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, in the Basque Country, a region nestled between France and Spain. This unique heritage is something John holds dear, and he instilled a sense of pride in his roots within Jacob. In a 2020 interview with GQ, Jacob recounted his father’s strong connection to his Basque identity, emphasizing it’s distinct from Spanish descent. John’s personal story is one of resilience and determination. At just eight years old, he immigrated with very little, building a new life and eventually raising his family in Australia. This immigrant experience and the values it instilled are foundational to the Elordi family narrative.
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John Elordi’s profession as a housepainter might seem worlds away from the acting world Jacob inhabits, but it is in his father’s dedication to his craft that Jacob learned invaluable life lessons. John, a hardworking laborer, even spent 13 years constructing the family home himself, a testament to his perseverance. Jacob has openly expressed his admiration for his father, describing John as a “totem” of the man he aspires to be. This blue-collar background instilled in Jacob a robust work ethic and a grounded perspective, qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to his success in a demanding industry. While John may not always fully grasp the nuances of Jacob’s acting career, his support is unwavering. Jacob humorously shared anecdotes of his father’s endearing confusion about his roles, highlighting the relatable and down-to-earth nature of John Elordi.
Despite initial parental pragmatism about the notoriously challenging acting profession, both John and Melissa Elordi have been pillars of support for Jacob’s aspirations. John confessed to the Daily Mail about his early reservations, acknowledging the slim odds of succeeding in acting. However, Jacob’s unwavering self-belief and passionate pursuit of his dream ultimately convinced them to offer their full backing. John recounted Jacob’s confident response to his father’s concerns, “Why can’t that one be me? Why can’t I be that one in a million?” This conviction resonated deeply with John and Melissa, leading them to champion their son’s ambitions wholeheartedly. This parental trust proved crucial as Jacob navigated the initial stages of his career.
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John and Melissa’s investment in Jacob extends beyond mere encouragement; they are deeply engaged with the characters he portrays on screen. Melissa’s enthusiastic reaction to Jacob’s Elvis transformation for Priscilla contrasts with her more visceral response to his role as Nate Jacobs in Euphoria. Jacob mentioned his mother’s distress at seeing Nate’s darker actions, revealing her strong emotional connection to her son and his performances. Similarly, John admitted to the Daily Mail that watching Jacob in intense roles, like Nate’s violent scenes in Euphoria, is not always easy. However, John’s ability to differentiate between his son and the character he plays demonstrates a mature understanding of Jacob’s craft and the demands of his profession. This nuanced perspective is a testament to John’s supportive and understanding nature as a father.
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The Elordi family’s down-to-earth charm was evident during Jacob’s Today show interview in 2022, where John and Melissa made a surprise appearance. Their lighthearted banter with hosts Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager, especially their playful response to Jacob being labeled a “Hollywood heartthrob,” offered a glimpse into their close-knit and humorous family dynamic. Their willingness to join Jacob on such a public platform underscores their unwavering support and pride in his accomplishments. John and Melissa’s presence alongside Jacob humanized the celebrity persona, reminding audiences of the strong family foundation underpinning his success.
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In conclusion, John Elordi is more than just Jacob Elordi’s father; he is a symbol of steadfast support, a provider of a strong work ethic, and a grounding influence in his son’s extraordinary life. From his Basque heritage and immigrant experience to his dedication to his family and profession, John’s values have profoundly shaped Jacob’s journey. As Jacob Elordi continues to rise in Hollywood, the unwavering support and love from his parents, especially his father John, remain a cornerstone of his life and career.
