90s Heartthrob with Eyes Like ‘Crystals’ Has Aged Naturally with Gray Hair at 61—Why He Moved Away from Hollywood

Born on July 22, 1963, in Norfolk, Virginia, this actor rose to fame through unforgettable roles in hit TV shows like “Silk Stalkings,” “Melrose Place,” and “90210.”

His talent and good looks made him a household name, particularly during the height of his career in the ’90s. However, it wasn’t just his acting that kept people hooked — his crystal-blue eyes were his signature, earning him a legion of devoted fans.

Fans frequently gush over his Instagram posts, where his naturally aging look, complete with gray hair, has drawn comments like, “Aging like fine wine” and “Still a hot man! A year older than me and looking great.”

Other fans praise him for staying true to himself. “You look amazing! Naturally youthful. You are living well, congrats!” one fan wrote, capturing the sentiment shared by many. Another echoed this admiration, reminiscing, “My teenage crush.”

His eyes have always been a defining feature, a detail that his fans have never forgotten. And while the sands of time have shifted, revealing the silver streaks in his hair, his mesmerizing eyes — still as bright and clear as ever — remain a focal point of admiration.

Fans often comment on them, with one saying, “Oh, those beautiful eyes of yours,” while another simply stated, “Your eyes are literally crystals.” Another fan summed up, “One of my favorite male actors. Keeps on getting better looking as he ages.”

His decision to age naturally, without resorting to cosmetic interventions, stands out in an industry often obsessed with youth. It’s a choice that has only deepened the connection between him and his fans, who see him not just as a former heartthrob, but as someone who represents authenticity and self-acceptance.

Over the years, he transitioned from being the object of millions of teenage crushes to a dedicated husband and father. Despite the changes in his personal life, his appeal has never waned. Once deemed one of the most handsome men in the ’90s, here’s a look at this actor’s transformation over the years, including why he stepped away from Hollywood.

The Actor in the 2020s

When it comes to relaxation, the “Checkered Flag” actor finds solace in music and gardening. Making music has been a passion of his since his school days, and it remains an essential part of his life.

Gardening is another way he finds peace, particularly when he’s feeling stressed. “Trees go away when [he’s] not happy,” the actor’s wife joked in an exclusive interview in 2017, highlighting how he channels his energy into working in their garden. Whether chopping down trees or tending to plants, these activities give him a sense of calm and fulfillment.

Away from the pressures of fame, the actor has found peace and contentment in his role as a husband and father. He relishes the small moments that come with raising a family in a place that truly feels like home.

This quieter life didn’t mean the end of his career, but rather a redefinition of success. He has continued to act, albeit selectively, choosing roles that resonated with him personally rather than chasing the fame that once defined him.

In December 2023, fans were thrilled to see him return to the screen in the trailer for the movie “Beautiful Wedding.” This role showcased that even as he has embraced a quieter, family-oriented life, his passion for acting remained strong.

The Actor in the 2010s

In 2010, the actor married his second wife, Erin Bolte, a teacher who shared his vision of a grounded, family-oriented life. Together, they decided to settle in the peaceful beachside town of San Clemente, California.

This move was a deliberate choice to provide their son, Makai, with a serene and nurturing environment, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. “There’s definitely not the stressed-out L.A. vibe in San Clemente. It’s way laid-back,” his wife shared in 2017.

They settled into the beachside community, that offered the serenity and space they needed to raise their family. The actor has two older children, Mason and Maya, from his previous marriage to fellow “Melrose Place” alum Josie Bissett.

While Mason lived with them in San Clemente and attended San Clemente High School, Maya resided in Seattle with her mother but visited regularly.

The actor and Bissett managed to maintain a positive co-parenting relationship, ensuring that their children felt supported and connected to both sides of the family.

The couple’s choice of San Clemente was influenced by several factors, including the quality of education for their children. The move also offered them more space.

Their four-bedroom house by the beach was a significant upgrade from the smaller, more expensive options they had in Santa Monica. Living in what they describe as a “bubble” by the beach, the family embraced a lifestyle centered on togetherness and shared experiences.

Their move to the town also holds special significance for the couple, as Erin lived there when they first met. They were set up on a blind date by mutual friends, and it was in this town that they had their first date.

At the time, the actor was splitting his time between Seattle and Los Angeles, without a permanent residence in Los Angeles. He was staying with his sister in San Clemente when he met Erin. Later, he landed a role in “The Women’s Murder Club” and secured a place in Santa Monica.

Despite the demands of his career, the actor makes it a point to be present at home, where family dinners are a nightly tradition. “Eighty to ninety percent of the time, we all have dinner together every night,” he explained. Their commitment to family values is evident in their everyday routines.

The actor’s household has a strict “no electronics at dinner” rule, ensuring that mealtime is an opportunity for conversation and bonding. For them, it’s about creating a space where they can unwind, disconnect from the outside world, and focus on each other.

His wife Erin emphasized, “We’re a strong non-electronic family, and at night our routine with Makai is books, teeth, books, bed.” This focus on family and simplicity has become a defining characteristic of their life in San Clemente.

The actor we’re referring to is none other than Rob Estes, who was once a constant presence on our TV screens. Keep reading to see how his look evolved through the ’90s and 2000s.

The Actor in the 2000s