Netflix
Okay, confession time: I’ve been in love with Seth Cohen since the early 2000s, and honestly, not much has changed. Adam Brody was my teenage dream—awkward, funny, and, let’s be real, the only person who could make being obsessed with comic books and Death Cab for Cutie seem cool. But somehow, it felt like Hollywood forgot how great he is… until now.
Fast forward to 2024, and Brody’s back, proving to the world what I’ve known all along: he’s the ultimate rom-com dreamboat. In his new show, Nobody Wants This, he plays a rabbi (yes, a rabbi—unexpected, but honestly adorable) opposite Kristen Bell, and I couldn’t be happier to see him in the spotlight again. It’s the perfect role to remind everyone of the charm we fell for 20 years ago. And can we talk about the fact that he’s married to the Leighton Meester? That’s right, Seth Cohen ended up with Blair Waldorf, and I think we’re all still trying to process how the teen drama gods allowed that to happen.
In honour of Brody’s comeback (which is long overdue, in my opinion), it feels like the right time to look back at his best roles and appreciate just how much he’s given us—because, let’s face it, the man has range. From geeky heartthrob to shady rockstar to actual superhero, here are the Adam Brody roles that have cemented his place as one of the most unexpectedly charming actors of our time.
Adam Brody’s best movies and shows
The O.C.
Seth Cohen
We have to start with The O.C. right? Seth Cohen was the epitome of a nerdy heartthrob—quick with the pop culture references, socially awkward but adorably so, and, of course, he had that iconic curly hair. Brody brought so much humour and depth to the role that it was impossible not to root for him. His chemistry with Rachel Bilson’s Summer Roberts? Absolutely unmatched. Seth Cohen will forever be one of the most beloved TV characters of the 2000s.
Gilmore Girls
Dave Rygalski
Before Seth Cohen, there was Dave Rygalski in Gilmore Girls. Although it was a smaller role, Brody made a huge impression. As Lane Kim’s secret boyfriend, Dave was the sweet, patient, and endearing guy every teenager could only dream of dating. Watching him navigate Mrs. Kim’s strict rules was equally hilarious and heartwarming, and he proved that even in a supporting role, Brody could make us swoon.
Nobody Wants This
Noah
Fast forward to now, and Brody’s still making hearts flutter in Nobody Wants This. The comedy is centred on the unlikely relationship between an outspoken, agnostic woman, Joanne (Kristen Bell), and an unconventional rabbi, Noah (Adam Brody), showcasing his signature charm, but with more maturity. It’s rom-com vibes with depth, humour, and a bit of the awkwardness that we all love from his earlier roles. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing out on peak Brody.
Jennifer’s Body
Nikolai Wolf
In Jennifer’s Body, we got to see a darker side of Brody as Nikolai, the lead singer of a devil-worshipping indie band. It was a totally different role for him, and he nailed it. Brody’s portrayal of a villainous rock star was creepy and somehow still… oddly magnetic? He balanced his usual charisma with a sinister edge that was both unsettling and captivating.
New Girl
Berkley
Brody’s guest spot on New Girl as Jess’s ex, Berkley, was brief but unforgettable. He played the too-cool, overly emotional former flame who showed up out of nowhere, bringing all sorts of awkwardness to Jess’s life. It was a fun role that played up Brody’s comedic timing and ability to make even the most cringe-worthy moments totally endearing.
Shazam!
Superhero Freddy
Last but certainly not least, we can’t forget Brody’s superhero moment in Shazam!. As the adult version of Freddy, he brought a mix of youthful excitement and comedic timing to the role, proving he can nail action and comedy in the same breath. It’s a smaller part, but every time he’s on screen, he brings that same Brody charm we’ve loved for years.
