35+ Biggest TV Heartthrobs of the 60s, 70s, 80s & 90s – Then and Now (2026)

Some television stars weren't just actors—they became the faces an entire generation looked forward to seeing every week. From the 1960s through the 1990s, these unforgettable leading men captured audiences with their charm, talent, and iconic performances. In this Then & Now 2026 video, we look back at the legendary TV heartthrobs who defined four decades of classic television and discover where life has taken them today. While some continued successful careers in entertainment, others chose a quieter path, and sadly, several have passed away, leaving behind remarkable legacies. Featuring familiar faces including Tim Matheson, David Selby, Michael Brandon, Peter Strauss, Robert Foxworth, Ted Shackelford, Doug Davidson, Michael Damian, Steven Ford, Nicholas Hammond, Roscoe Born, Todd McKee, Lane Davies, Duncan Regehr, Matt LeBlanc, Dan Cortese, James Wilder, A. Martinez, and many more. From unforgettable roles in Santa Barbara, The Young and the Restless, Falcon Crest, Knots Landing, Friends, The Virginian, and other beloved television classics, these actors became some of the most admired stars of their era. Years have passed, but their memorable performances and timeless screen presence continue to be celebrated by fans around the world.