Early Life and Background
Born Christopher Michael Settlemire on May 9, 1985, in Warren, Ohio, Zylka grew up in a working-class family. He took his mother’s maiden name, Zylka, for his professional career. Growing up in Ohio, he attended Howland High School, where he was an active athlete and participated in various sports. Following graduation, he initially pursued art studies before moving to Los Angeles to chase his entertainment industry dreams.
Career Beginnings
Zylka’s entertainment career began with modeling work, which helped him establish connections in Los Angeles. His first acting roles came in the form of guest appearances on shows like “90210” and “Hannah Montana.” These early experiences, while brief, provided him with valuable exposure and helped him develop his craft. His breakthrough came when he landed a recurring role on “10 Things I Hate About You” in 2009.
Rise to Recognition
The actor’s profile significantly increased when he was cast as Jake Armstrong in “The Secret Circle” (2011-2012). Though the series lasted only one season, it helped establish Zylka as a capable dramatic actor. This led to his role as Flash Thompson in “The Amazing Spider-Man” (2012), which exposed him to a broader audience and demonstrated his ability to handle larger productions.
Critical Success
Zylka’s most acclaimed work came with his role as Tom Garvey in HBO’s “The Leftovers” (2014-2017). The series, which received widespread critical acclaim, allowed him to showcase his dramatic range alongside established actors. His performance in the show represented a significant evolution in his career, moving him from teen-oriented content to more mature, complex material.
Personal Life
While maintaining an active acting career, Zylka has occasionally found himself in the spotlight for his personal life. His most notable relationship was with Paris Hilton, whom he began dating in 2016. Their engagement in 2018 made international headlines, though they eventually separated in late 2018. Despite the media attention, Zylka has generally maintained a professional focus on his acting career.
