Charles Melton

Charles Michael Melton is an American actor and former fashion model who earned widespread recognition for his portrayal of Reggie Mantle in the CW teen drama series Riverdale. Transitioning from popular television roles to acclaimed feature films, Melton captured international praise for his performance in Todd Haynes' 2023 drama film May December. Born in Alaska and raised in Kansas, he pursued Division I collegiate football before establishing a successful career in the entertainment industry.

About and Early Life

Born on January 4, 1991, in Juneau, Alaska, Charles Melton grew up in a military household and lived in several locations—including a five-year stay in South Korea—before settling in Manhattan, Kansas. His father served in the United States military, and his mother is a Korean immigrant. Melton graduated from Manhattan High School and attended Kansas State University, where he played as a defensive back on the football team. After two years, he left college to relocate to Los Angeles to pursue modeling and acting. He quickly established himself by modeling for high-profile fashion brands and walking at New York Fashion Week.

Career Highlights

Melton made his television acting debut in 2014 with guest appearances on Glee and American Horror Story: Hotel. His breakout role arrived in 2017 when he joined the cast of Riverdale as Reggie Mantle, remaining with the show through its seven-season run ending in 2023. In 2019, he starred in his first studio lead role in the romantic feature The Sun Is Also a Star. Melton subsequently appeared in Bad Boys for Life, History of the World, Part II, and Poker Face. His breakthrough dramatic turn opposite Julianne Moore and Natalie Portman in May December earned him widespread critical acclaim, along with Golden Globe and Critics' Choice nominations.

Personal Life and Legacy

Outside of acting, Melton serves as a Global Ambassador for the Special Olympics, actively supporting initiative programs for athletes with intellectual disabilities. He often speaks about his pride in his Korean-American heritage and close family ties. Melton is based in Los Angeles, California, and is married to artist and director Camille Summers-Valli.