Most people become famous through movies, music, or social media.
Jeremy Meeks became famous from a mugshot.
Not a photoshoot. Not a runway. Just a police photo posted online.
But that one image, with his piercing blue eyes, sharp jawline, and tattoos, completely changed his life. Overnight, the internet gave him a nickname: the Hot Felon.
Behind that viral moment, though, was a much deeper story. One filled with crime, prison, struggle… and one of the craziest glow-ups ever seen.
Who Is Jeremy Meeks?
Jeremy Meeks is an American model, actor, and former gang member who became famous in 2014 after his mugshot went viral.
He was born on February 7, 1984, in Washington, USA, and grew up in a difficult environment surrounded by crime and poverty.
His early life wasn’t easy. His father was imprisoned when he was still a baby, and both of his parents struggled with addiction. As a teenager, Jeremy was already exposed to gang life and violence, which shaped many of his early decisions.
Jeremy Meeks Mugshot: The Photo That Changed Everything
In June 2014, Jeremy Meeks was arrested in Stockton, California during a police operation.
Like many arrests, his mugshot was posted online by the police.
But this one was different.
Within 24 hours:
Thousands of likes and comments flooded in
Women across the internet were obsessed with his looks
He became a viral sensation overnight
People weren’t talking about his crimes, they were talking about his face.
That moment turned Jeremy Meeks into one of the most famous mugshots in history.
What Did Jeremy Meeks Do?
Before his fame, Jeremy Meeks had a long criminal history.
He was involved in gang activity and had multiple arrests over the years.
Some of his charges included:
- Robbery
- Identity theft
- Forgery
- Firearm possession
His 2014 arrest, the one that made him famous, was related to weapons charges.
Why Did Jeremy Meeks Go to Jail?
Jeremy Meeks went to jail multiple times throughout his life.
His most well-known sentence came after his 2014 arrest, where he was convicted of possession of a firearm by a felon.
He was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison, although he ended up serving about 13 months before being released in 2016.
Jeremy Meeks Model Career
What makes Jeremy Meeks story so unique is what happened next.
While he was still in prison, modeling agencies started reaching out to him.
After his release in 2016:
He signed with a modeling agency
Started doing professional photoshoots
Walked at New York Fashion Week
He made his runway debut for Philipp Plein, which officially marked his transition from inmate to model.
Soon, he was working with major brands, appearing in magazines, and traveling the world.
Is Jeremy Meeks Still Modeling?
Yes, Jeremy Meeks is still modeling, although not as consistently as during his peak years.
He continues to:
- Work with fashion brands
- Appear in campaigns
- Attend events and collaborations
His modeling career opened doors that completely changed his lifestyle.
Jeremy Meeks Net Worth
Jeremy Meeks net worth is estimated to be around $4 million to $5 million.
His income comes from:
- Modeling contracts
- Brand deals
- Appearances
- Acting projects
At one point, he reportedly signed deals worth millions, including launching his own fashion ventures.
Jeremy Meeks Movies
After modeling, Jeremy Meeks also moved into acting.
He appeared in several films, including:
- True to the Game 2
- Trigger
- Other independent projects
Even without formal acting experience, his fame and look helped him land roles quickly.
Jeremy Meeks Wife
Jeremy Meeks was previously married to Melissa Meeks.
Interestingly, she was his nurse while he was in prison. They started communicating, built a relationship, and eventually got married.
They were together from 2008 to 2018 before separating.
Jeremy Meeks Chloe Green
Jeremy Meeks relationship with Chloe Green made headlines worldwide.
Chloe Green is the daughter of billionaire Philip Green, the owner of Topshop.
In 2017, photos of Jeremy and Chloe kissing on a yacht went viral, shocking many people.
From prison to dating a billionaire’s daughter, his life had completely flipped.
Jeremy Meeks Kids
Jeremy Meeks has two children:
- Jeremy Meeks Jr. (with Melissa Meeks)
- Jayden Meeks-Green (with Chloe Green)
Jeremy Meeks Jr.
Jeremy Meeks Jr. is his first son, born during his marriage to Melissa Meeks.
He has kept a relatively private life compared to his father.
Jeremy Meeks Height
Jeremy Meeks is approximately 6 feet tall (183 cm).
His height, combined with his facial features, played a big role in his success as a model.
Jeremy Meeks Now
Today, Jeremy Meeks lives a very different life from his past.
He is:
- Focused on his career
- Involved in mentorship programs
- Working with youth to help them avoid gang life
- He often visits juvenile centers and group homes, sharing his story and encouraging young people to choose a better path.
Why Jeremy Meeks Became Famous
Jeremy Meeks became famous for one simple reason: His looks.
But what made his story powerful wasn’t just his appearance, it was the contrast.
From prison to runway
From gang life to global fame
From mugshot to modeling contracts
His story shows how powerful image and timing can be.
One photo was all it took to change everything.