Back in 2014, Jeremy Meeks became an unexpected internet sensation when his mugshot—complete with smouldering blue eyes and chiseled cheekbones—went viral.
Social media dubbed him the “Hot Felon,” and overnight, he became an international talking point.
But what’s even more fascinating than his rise to fame is what he’s doing with that fame now.
A Life-Changing Arrest
It all started with a police photo shared by Stockton Police Department after a joint law enforcement operation called “Operation Ceasefire.”
Jeremy, then listed as a convicted felon, was arrested on felony weapon charges.
Though he denied the charges, he was convicted in 2015 of one count of firearm possession and sentenced to 27 months in federal prison.
Part of his sentence included a 500-hour substance abuse treatment program.
From Prison to the Runway
When Jeremy was released from Mendota Federal Correctional Institution, the buzz around his mugshot hadn’t faded—it had grown.
And that fame opened unexpected doors.
He signed a modeling contract and began walking in major fashion shows, proving he could turn a second chance into a thriving career.
A Glamorous Romance and Family Expansion
In June 2017, Jeremy made headlines again, this time for dating Chloe Green, the daughter of billionaire and Topshop mogul Philip Green.
Their romance was splashed across tabloids, especially after they were seen kissing on a yacht while Jeremy was still legally married. A year later, Chloe gave birth to their son, Jayden.
While their relationship ended in 2019, they remain on good terms as co-parents.
Giving Back to the Community
These days, Jeremy isn’t chasing the spotlight.
He’s focused on something deeper—mentoring at-risk youth and helping incarcerated individuals rebuild their lives.
On Instagram, he recently shared photos and reflections from visits to juvenile prisons in California, where he speaks to young men aged 17–23.
His goal? To be the role model he wishes he had growing up.
“Every time I go up there and talk to a group of kids, it reminds me how much I wish I had someone who looked like us to come talk to us,” Jeremy wrote.
“But I’m grateful for all the trials and tribulations.”
Faith and Purpose
Jeremy often talks about his faith, giving credit to God for guiding his path.
In his own words, “God is doing the most incredible things in my life right now.”
Whether he’s in a church, a juvenile detention center, or working with charities like WOSMOH (Women of Substance, Men of Honor), Jeremy says it feels like he’s finally walking in his true purpose.
A Voice for Change
He’s passionate about speaking out against gun violence, particularly in underserved communities like the one he grew up in.
He believes kids need more than just words—they need education, father figures, and role models.
That’s why Jeremy is now spending more time visiting group homes, connecting with the youth, and sharing his story as proof that change is possible.
Sharing His Journey in a Memoir
In March, Jeremy published his memoir Model Citizen, an honest and vulnerable account of his life.
The book dives into his struggles with poverty, gang violence, and the justice system, but also celebrates the turning points that led to redemption.
The book also features 46 photos, including 24 full-page modeling shots by celebrity photographer Jim Jordan.
“I’m in a place in my life where I want to tell the whole story,” Jeremy said.
“And I hope people can understand how I came to be where I am.”
Fashion and Film on His Terms
While he’s stepped back from full-time modeling, Jeremy hasn’t left the industry.
He’s collaborated with fashion companies like Fashion Concept GmbH and Canon Mitchell, even launching his own clothing lines.
He’s also been steadily building his acting résumé, appearing in films like Dutch II: Angel’s Revenge, with more titles like Beach Chain, Doggmen, and Rise of the Tarrogan in the pipeline.
Fatherhood First
Jeremy is a dedicated dad to two sons—Jeremy Jr., from his marriage to ex-wife Melissa, and Jayden, his son with Chloe Green.
Despite his complex romantic history, Jeremy says he’s in a great place and maintains strong relationships with both mothers.
“They are incredible mothers,” he told BuzzFeed. “We’re all co-parenting.”
Still Standing, Still Growing
Jeremy Meeks has come a long way from that viral mugshot.
He may have started out as a “Hot Felon,” but today he’s a father, an activist, a mentor, and a man of faith trying to leave a meaningful legacy.