What happens when a beloved actor like Ian Somerhalder transitions from a successful career to facing overwhelming debt? After retiring from acting, he found himself in an eight-figure hole due to a failed business venture. This journey led him to unexpected success in the bourbon industry.
Somerhalder, known for his role in The Vampire Diaries, retired in 2017. He left behind an “insanely lucrative” career because of financial turmoil stemming from a poorly managed clean energy business. “I left an insanely lucrative career in television after financial upheaval from building a business that I didn’t build properly,” he shared.
After realizing the depth of their financial struggles, Somerhalder and his wife, Nikki Reed, took drastic measures. They sold houses, paintings, cars, and watches to regain their footing. “Eight figures is a hard hole to climb out of,” he admitted. Thankfully, with determination and support from Reed, they began to turn things around.
As they climbed out of debt, Somerhalder and his former co-star Paul Wesley ventured into the whiskey industry. Together, they founded Brother’s Bond Bourbon, focusing on quality and regenerative agriculture. The bourbon recipe features 65% corn, 22% rye, and 13% wheat and barley. This commitment to quality resonates with fans who remember their chemistry on screen.
Key ingredients:
- 65% corn in the bourbon recipe
- 22% rye for added flavor
- 13% wheat and barley for balance
Somerhalder emphasizes quality above all else: “Quality first, quality first. If it’s not in the bottle, it ain’t in the bottle.” Paul Wesley adds a touch of humor, saying simply, “I mean…just try it.” Their journey reflects not just personal resilience but also a commitment to sustainable practices.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Somerhalder and Wesley spent time blending bourbon in Ian’s kitchen—a creative outlet that turned into a thriving business. Their partnership has been instrumental in navigating both challenges and successes.
This remarkable transition highlights how even those who seem to have it all can face significant hurdles. While many details about their future plans remain unclear, one thing is certain: Somerhalder’s journey from acting fame to bourbon entrepreneur serves as an inspiring tale of resilience and reinvention.
