Steven R. McQueen Responds to Online Speculation About Appearance

Actor Steven R. McQueen, 38, has assured fans that he is returning to his fitness regimen following a recent public appearance that generated online debate about his physique. McQueen, known for his role as Jeremy Gilbert in "The Vampire Diaries," posted a selfie on Instagram Thursday with the caption, "Back to the gym. Any music suggestions?"

McQueen's update came after he attended the Forever Mystic Falls Fan Meet in Paris last weekend. Photos from the event led to widespread online commentary, with reactions ranging from surprise at his altered appearance to defenses that noted the natural processes of aging and weight fluctuation.

This marks McQueen's return to the public eye after a period of relative withdrawal from acting. His last on-screen role was in the 2020 Western film "The Warrant." Before that, he appeared in "Chicago P.D." and "Chicago Fire" in the 2010s.

McQueen, grandson of legendary actor Steve McQueen, gained significant recognition for his role in "The Vampire Diaries" from 2009 to 2015. He has previously spoken about being inspired to act by his grandfather's career, though he also expressed a desire to forge his own path. His acting career has also included work on humanitarian projects, such as his involvement with the Thirst Project in Africa to address water scarcity.

During his time on "The Vampire Diaries," McQueen was engaged to model Alexandra Silva, though the engagement was called off in 2018. More recently, his father, actor and race car driver Chad McQueen, passed away at age 63 from organ failure in 2024. Chad McQueen was also known for his roles in films like "The Karate Kid" and for continuing his father's legacy in motorsports.