Wentworth Miller, who captivated audiences with his striking looks over 20 years ago, has since embraced a fuller figure and silver hair. From openly embracing his identity as a gay man to confronting a significant health diagnosis, his journey has been marked by profound change.

Wentworth Miller is widely recognized for his portrayal of Michael Scofield in the Fox series “Prison Break,” a role he played for 12 years starting in 2005. He has also appeared on “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and a notable presence on “The Flash.”

In addition to his successful Hollywood career, Miller has experienced profound changes both physically and emotionally. His journey has been shaped by personal challenges and growth. Here’s how his life struggles have influenced his transformation over the years.

Wentworth Miller trains for his upcoming role in Miramax’s “The Human Stain” on March 3, 2002 in Hollywood, Utah. | Source: Getty Images

Miller in 2003

In August 2003, Miller posed during a photocall at the 60th Venice Film Festival. He had a clean-shaven face and short, closely cropped hair. His complexion was smooth, and he appeared lean. His appearance was polished yet relaxed, fitting for the summer event.

Wentworth Miller poses during a photocall at the 60th Venice Film Festival August 29, 2003, in Venice, Italy. | Source: Getty Images

The next month, at the Toronto International Film Festival, Miller attended a press conference. His hairstyle remained short and neat, similar to the previous month. He was clean-shaven, emphasizing his sharp jawline. His physique still appeared slender, maintaining his youthful, fresh-faced appearance.

Wentworth Miller attends the press conference at the 2003 Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2003, in Toronto, Canada. | Source: Getty Images

He attended another event the following month at ArcLight Cinemas in Hollywood, where his appearance showed subtle changes. He maintained a consistent look as his physique remained trim, reflecting no significant changes in weight.

Wentworth Miller attends the Hollywood Film Festival Screening of “The Human Stain” on October 21, 2003 in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

Miller in 2005

At the Fox Primetime Upfront event in May 2005, Miller displayed a polished, clean look. His hair was short and neatly trimmed, and he was clean-shaven, showcasing his defined facial features. His physique appeared lean, maintaining his trim build.

Wentworth Miller during 2005/2006 FOX Primetime UpFront on May 19, 2005, in Central Park, New York City. | Source: Getty Images

While on the set of “Prison Break,” that same year, Miller’s appearance was consistent with his previous looks. He kept his hair short and neat, and his face remained clean-shaven.

Wentworth Miller on the set of “Prison Break,” 2005 | Source: Getty Images

Another photo from the “Prison Break” set showed Miller maintaining his signature style. His hair was trimmed, and his facial structure was prominently displayed.

Dominic Purcell and Wentworth Miller on the set of “Prison Break,” 2005 | Source: Getty Images

At the Hangar 8 event in August 2005 in Santa Monica, Miller’s appearance showed slight changes. His hair remained short, but there was a slightly more textured look.

Wentworth Miller attends “Prison Break” launch party on August 22, 2005, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images

At the Fox Fall Casino Party in October of that year, Miller’s skin appeared slightly more tanned. He chose a dark jacket over a light-colored shirt, which created a slightly more polished casual look. His physique continued to appear lean and fit.

Wentworth Miller during FOX Fall Casino party on October 24, 2005, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

The next month, the star appeared on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” and kept his look simple and consistent. His hair was short and neatly groomed, and he remained clean-shaven. He wore a black suit paired with a light blue shirt unbuttoned at the collar.

Wentworth Miller during an interview with host Jay Leno on November 21, 2005 | Source: Getty Images

Miller in 2006

On January 10, 2006, Miller attended the 32nd Annual People’s Choice Awards, where he accepted the award for Favorite New TV Drama for “Prison Break.” He maintained a polished and formal appearance, and his physique appeared consistent with his appearances in 2005.

Wentworth Miller at the 32nd Annual People’s Choice Awards on January 10, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

During the Fox 2006 Golden Globes after party with Sarah Wayne Callies, Miller’s appearance was similar to the previous week. He wore a black suit, which added a touch of casual elegance to his look, and his body shape remained consistent, still lean and athletic.

Sarah Wayne Callies and Wentworth Miller attend the Fox 2006 Golden Globes after party on January 16, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

At the Fox Winter TCA party, Miller’s appearance was sharp and stylish. His hair was short, neatly cut, and slightly spiked at the front. He wore a brown coat over a darker sweater, giving him a sophisticated yet relaxed look.

Wentworth Miller attends the Fox Winter TCA party on January 17, 2006, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

During this outing in May 2006 in Los Angeles, Miller’s look was more casual. His overall appearance was laid-back and comfortable, suitable for a casual day out.

Wentworth Miller seen on May 21, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

A few days later, Miller was seen talking over the phone in Los Angeles, as he appeared in a casual and laid-back appearance. He wore a blue t-shirt paired with beige pants, keeping his look simple and comfortable. His physique appeared lean, with no significant changes from earlier in the month.

Wentworth Miller pictured on May 23, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

The following month, the actor attended the 2006 Teen Choice Awards at the Gibson Amphitheatre, where he opted for a more polished casual look. He wore a black button-down shirt, left untucked, blending a casual and slightly formal style.

Wentworth attends the 2006 Teen Choice Awards on August 20, 2006, in Universal City, California. | Source: Getty Images

At the 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards, Miller showcased a formal and elegant look. He wore a classic black tuxedo with a crisp white dress shirt and a black bow tie, presenting a polished and sophisticated appearance.

Wentworth Miller during 58th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on August 27, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

During his interview at the Four Seasons Hotel the next day, Miller’s appearance was slightly more relaxed but still sharp. He wore a checkered, open-collared shirt with a baseball cap, giving him an approachable look.

Wentworth Miller talks at the Four Season’s Hotel on August 28, 2006, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

On October 9, 2006, at the Majestic Hotel in Cannes, France, Miller maintained a clean and polished appearance. His hair was short and neatly styled, with a slight wave for added texture.

Wentworth Miller photographed at the Majestic Hotel on October 9, 2006, in Cannes, France. | Source: Getty Images

During this appearance at the FOX Fall 2006 Eco-Casino Party, Miller’s look was slightly more casual but still stylish. He wore a dark, fitted jacket over a gray t-shirt, which gave him a more rugged and contemporary look.

Wentworth Miller attends the FOX Fall 2006 Eco-Casino party on October 23, 2006 | Source: Getty Images

Miller in 2007

In March 2007, Miller attended a press conference and a fan meeting in Seoul, South Korea. He was pictured holding two stuffed animals and a drawing of himself.

Wentworth Miller appears at a press conference and a fan meeting on March 23, 2007, in Seoul, South Korea. | Source: Getty Images

In July of that year, the television star attended the Fox TCA Party in Los Angeles and opted for a white open-collared shirt with dark trousers for the event.

Wentworth Miller at the FOX TCA party on July 23, 2007, in Santa Monica, California. | Source: Getty Images

During the “Prison Break” press conference in Beverly Hills, California, in September of that year, Miller’s appearance remained consistent. He was pictured wearing a light blue checkered shirt paired with jeans.

Wentworth Miller at the “Prison Break” press conference on September 14, 2007, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

Miller in 2009

In March 2009, during a press event in Shanghai, China, Miller had a clean-shaven face, maintaining his defined jawline. The actor wore a navy blue dress shirt as he smiled at the camera.

Wentworth Miller during an interview on March 17, 2009, in Shanghai, China. | Source: Getty Images

The next month, he attended a commercial event and arrived for the occasion wearing glasses, a gray jacket over a white unbuttoned shirt paired with black pants.

Wentworth Miller arrives for a commercial event on April 18, 2009, in Shanghai, China. | Source: Getty Images

Three months later, Miller appeared on the set of “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” in New York. His look was more casual and practical, fitting for his role, and he seemed to have a slightly fuller face.

Wentworth Miller on the set of “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” 2009 | Source: Getty Images

Miller in 2013

After being away from the spotlight since semi-retiring for several reasons, Miller returned to the public eye and came out as a gay man in the most memorable way. In 2013, he was invited to the St. Petersburg International Film Festival in Russia but declined.

Citing Russia’s anti-LGBTQ legislation, Miller made his decision public through an open letter, which also marked the first time he publicly shared his sexual orientation.

Miller expressed, “As someone who has enjoyed visiting Russia in the past and can also claim a degree of Russian ancestry, it would make me happy to say yes. However, as a gay man, I must decline.”

In the letter, the advocate shared his deep concern over the Russian government’s stance and treatment of LGBTQ individuals, stating that the situation was unacceptable.

He emphasized that he could not, in good conscience, take part in a celebratory event hosted by a country where people like him were systematically deprived of their fundamental rights to live and love openly.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s harsh anti-gay laws have faced significant opposition, both from the international community and from within Russia itself.

Since Wentworth Miller publicly came out, his love life has attracted attention. Rumors circulated that he was dating Canadian actor and producer Luke McFarlane, best known for appearing in the family drama series “Brothers & Sisters.”

The two were spotted together in Los Angeles that same year. According to onlookers, they initially tried to avoid being photographed together, but eventually, they walked down the street side by side, sharing a smile.

In an exclusive interview in April 2008, MacFarlane had publicly revealed that he is gay. He acknowledged the uncertainty about how this might impact his career, expressing his concern but also emphasizing that he couldn’t let it dominate his thoughts, as it was his truth.

Miller in 2015

Meanwhile, McFarlane’s rumored boyfriend continued making public appearances solo. At the screening of “The Loft” in Los Angeles in January 2015, Miller’s appearance showed a notable change from his earlier years. His hair had more noticeable graying, particularly at the temples, giving him a distinguished look.

Wentworth Miller attends the screening of “The Loft” on January 27, 2015, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Miller in 2016

In 2016, Miller responded to criticism over his weight gain by sharing his personal struggles. After The LAD Bible posted a now-deleted meme that fat-shamed him, he addressed the issue by revealing his past battles with suicidal thoughts in a since-deleted Facebook post.

He admitted, “Ashamed and in pain, I considered myself damaged goods. And the voices in my head urged me down the path to self-destruction.”

Wentworth Miller visits “Extra” at their New York studios on January 21, 2016, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Miller revealed that photos of his weight gain in 2010 were taken during the “lowest point in my adult life,” when he turned to food for comfort while struggling with his mental health.

Wentworth Miller visits “Extra” at their New York studios on January 21, 2016, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

“I was looking everywhere for relief/comfort/distraction. And I turned to food,” the British-born, Brooklyn-raised Hollywood actor wrote.

Wentworth Miller on the set of “Prison Break,” 2016 | Source: Getty Images

He shared that seeing those images now reminds him of his endurance and perseverance. Despite the challenges, the star, who suffered in silence, emphasized that he survived.

Wentworth Miller on the set of “Prison Break,” 2016 | Source: Getty Images

Miller in 2017

Moreover, while at the Television Critics Association Winter Press Tour on January 11, 2017, Miller’s appearance reflected his mature, seasoned look. Pictured alongside Dominic Purcell, his hair was nearly buzzed and fully gray, which added a distinguished and mature aura.

Dominic Purcell and Wentworth Miller speak onstage during the Fox portion of the 2017 Winter Television Critics Association Press Tour on January 11, 2017, in Pasadena, California. | Source: Getty Images

In this solo appearance at the same event, Miller had a clean-shaven face that emphasized his sharp features. His physique remained steady, reflecting a healthy, fuller build compared to his earlier, leaner years.

Wentworth Miller during the Fox portion of the 2017 Winter Television Critics Association Press Tour on January 11, 2017, in Pasadena, California. | Source: Getty Images

Two months later, Miller attended the “Prison Break” screening and conversation in Beverly Hills, California. His appearance was similar to earlier in the year, with his hair closely cropped and entirely gray. He also had gray facial hair.

Wentworth Miller attends the “Prison Break” screening and conversation on March 29, 2017, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

Miller in 2020

Miller dropped yet another bombshell in 2020 concerning his acting career. The Golden Globe nominee announced in a since-deleted Instagram post that he was no longer interested in reprising his role as Michael Scofield in “Prison Break.”

He stated, “I’m out. Of PB. Officially,” clarifying that his decision wasn’t due to social media backlash but because he no longer wants to portray straight characters, as their stories have been extensively told.

Miller acknowledged that his decision might disappoint fans hoping for more seasons, and he addressed those upset by the idea of a gay actor playing a straight character, stating, “That’s your work.” This was ahead of a planned sixth season, which never materialized.

Miller in 2021

In July 2021, Miller disclosed another significant aspect of his personal life, revealing that he was diagnosed with autism as an adult. In a detailed Instagram post, which has since been deleted, the actor reflected on finding “unexpected gifts” during the lockdowns brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

“This fall marks 1 year since I received my informal autism diagnosis. Preceded by a self-diagnosis. Followed by a formal diagnosis,” Miller shared.

The movie star acknowledged that the process was lengthy and flawed, noting that it was in need of updating, especially for adults. He also recognized that having access to a diagnosis is a privilege not everyone enjoys.

Autism, as explained by the Autism Society of America, is a developmental disability that can affect communication and social interaction, characterized by certain behaviors.

Miller recognized that his autism diagnosis is an inherent part of who he is and something he cannot change. He expressed gratitude to those who offered him extra understanding and patience.

Miller in 2024

Despite facing personal challenges, Miller, 52, is no longer on social media and continues to pursue his passion for acting. Nineteen years after the premiere of “Prison Break,” he and Purcell, 54, are set to reunite in the upcoming series “Snatchback.”

Purcell announced the news on Instagram, expressing gratitude to his wife, Tish Cyrus Purcell, and her production company, Hopetown Entertainment, for bringing the project to life.

The series reportedly centers on a highly skilled team of privately contracted operatives who recover hostages from some of the most exotic and dangerous locations around the world.

Apart from this upcoming project, Dominic Purcell and Miller, who played brothers on “Prison Break,” have previously shared the screen in “The Flash” and “Legends of Tomorrow.”

Wentworth Miller’s journey, marked by personal challenges and growth, has only strengthened his resolve to live authentically. As he continues to embrace new roles and projects, his story remains an inspiring testament to resilience and self-discovery.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “help” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.