Hilarie Burton Young: What She's Up To Now, Beyond Tree Hill

Devan Mayer 19 Aug 2025

For many, the name Hilarie Burton Young brings back a flood of memories, especially if you grew up watching television in the early 2000s. She really made a mark on our screens, you know, with her honest performances. From her early days on MTV to becoming a beloved character on a popular teen drama, her career has seen quite a few interesting turns. She has, in a way, always been someone who captures attention, whether through acting or just being herself.

She built a strong connection with audiences, particularly through her role as Peyton Sawyer. This character, a creative and often troubled artist, resonated with so many young people who felt like outsiders. It was, perhaps, a role that truly showcased her ability to convey deep feelings and complex personalities. People still talk about her work on that show, even now, which is pretty cool.

This article will take a closer look at the path Hilarie Burton Young has walked, from her beginnings to where she is today. We will explore her significant acting jobs, her ventures behind the camera, and her life away from the spotlight. You will also get a sense of her commitment to family and community, which is, actually, a huge part of who she is now. So, let's get into it.

Biography and Personal Details
A Look Back: Early Days and Iconic Roles
- MTV's TRL: A Start in the Spotlight
- One Tree Hill: Peyton Sawyer's Journey
Beyond the WB: Expanding Her Creative World
- Diverse Acting Choices: From White Collar to The Walking Dead
- Producing and Directing Endeavors
Life Off-Screen: Farm, Family, and Advocacy
Hilarie Burton Young Today: New Projects and Lasting Impact
- Current Work and Future Outlook
- Her Enduring Connection with Fans
Frequently Asked Questions About Hilarie Burton Young
A Lasting Impression

Biography and Personal Details

Hilarie Burton Young has had a career that really shows her range and dedication. She is, you know, someone who has grown up in the public eye. Here are some key details about her life and work.

Detail	Information
Full Name	Hilarie Ross Burton Young
Born	July 1, 1982
Hometown	Sterling, Virginia, U.S.
Spouse	Jeffrey Dean Morgan (married 2019)
Children	Augustus "Gus" Morgan, George Virginia Morgan
Notable Roles	Peyton Sawyer (One Tree Hill), Sara Ellis (White Collar), Lucille (The Walking Dead)
Other Ventures	Author, Podcaster, Farm Owner

A Look Back: Early Days and Iconic Roles

Her journey into the entertainment world began quite early, actually, and it was pretty different from what many might expect. She started out in a very popular place for young people. This early exposure helped shape her public presence before she even stepped onto a dramatic set. It was, in a way, a very public apprenticeship.

MTV's TRL: A Start in the Spotlight

Before she became a household name for her acting, Hilarie Burton Young was a familiar face on MTV's "Total Request Live," or TRL. She joined the show as a VJ in 2000, interviewing big music stars and interacting with fans daily. This job, you know, put her right in the middle of pop culture at a very exciting time. It was a live show, so she had to be quick on her feet and connect with a huge audience, which is a pretty good skill to have.

Her time on TRL gave her a platform to show off her personality and build a following. She was known for her bubbly energy and honest reactions. It was, in some respects, a stepping stone that prepared her for the demands of acting. This experience allowed her to get comfortable with cameras and a live audience, which, quite honestly, is something many actors do not get to do so early in their careers.

One Tree Hill: Peyton Sawyer's Journey

The role that truly made Hilarie Burton Young a widely recognized name was Peyton Sawyer on "One Tree Hill." She played the character for six seasons, from 2003 to 2009. Peyton was an artistic, sometimes moody, but always deeply feeling character who went through a lot. She dealt with family issues, friendships, and a very complex love life, you know, that really kept viewers guessing.

Her portrayal of Peyton resonated deeply with many viewers, particularly teenagers who felt a connection to the character's struggles and triumphs. The show itself became a cultural touchstone for a generation. It was, basically, a huge part of many people's growing up years. The friendships and relationships on the show, and Peyton's role within them, were very central to its appeal. Her work on this series really cemented her place in television history, and people still talk about it quite a bit.

Beyond the WB: Expanding Her Creative World

After her time on "One Tree Hill," Hilarie Burton Young did not just stick to one type of role. She made choices that showed she wanted to try different things and grow as an actor. This period, you know, really highlighted her versatility. She was not afraid to take on parts that were very different from Peyton Sawyer, which is pretty brave for an actor who has been so identified with one character.

Diverse Acting Choices: From White Collar to The Walking Dead

She took on roles in various television shows and films, proving her range beyond teen drama. For instance, she had a recurring role as Sara Ellis on the USA Network series "White Collar," a character who was a smart and tough insurance investigator. This part was, in a way, a chance to show a more mature and professional side of her acting abilities. It was a very different kind of show, too, which was good for her.

Later, she made a memorable guest appearance on AMC's "The Walking Dead," playing Lucille, the wife of Negan, a truly iconic villain. This role, though brief, was very impactful and showed a different kind of intensity. It was, quite honestly, a surprising and powerful performance that many fans of the show still talk about. She showed she could handle drama that was, you know, much darker and more serious. Her choices showed she was interested in roles that challenged her.

Producing and Directing Endeavors

Hilarie Burton Young also started to work behind the camera, taking on roles as a producer and director. This move showed her interest in the whole process of making television and film, not just being in front of it. She has, you know, always seemed like someone with a lot of creative ideas. This step allowed her to have more control over the stories being told, which is pretty neat.

She has produced and directed several projects, often focusing on stories that resonate with her. This kind of work allows her to explore different aspects of storytelling and bring her own vision to life. It is, in a way, a natural progression for someone with her experience in the industry. She is, very clearly, someone who wants to be involved in every part of the creative process, and that is something to admire.

Life Off-Screen: Farm, Family, and Advocacy

Away from the bright lights of Hollywood, Hilarie Burton Young has built a life that is very different from her acting roles. She lives a quieter existence, focusing on her family and community. It is, in a way, a very grounded life, and she often shares glimpses of it with her fans. She seems to enjoy this balance, you know, between her public work and her private world.

The Quiet Life in Upstate New York

She lives on a farm in upstate New York with her husband and children. This move to a more rural setting was a conscious choice, allowing her family to experience a different pace of life. They raise animals and grow their own food, embracing a more self-sufficient lifestyle. It is, basically, a world away from the fast-paced entertainment industry. This kind of life, apparently, brings her a lot of joy and peace.

The farm life provides a sense of calm and a connection to nature that she often talks about. It is a place where her children can grow up with open spaces and learn about caring for animals and the land. This choice of lifestyle, in some respects, speaks volumes about her values. She often shares photos and stories from the farm, giving her fans a peek into her everyday world, which is quite charming.

Marriage and Family Adventures

Hilarie Burton Young is married to actor Jeffrey Dean Morgan, known for his roles in "The Walking Dead" and "Supernatural." Their relationship is quite public, and they often share their adventures as a family. They have two children, a son named Augustus and a daughter named George. Their family life seems to be filled with love, laughter, and a lot of outdoor activities, you know, which is really nice to see.

They often support each other's projects and are very open about their family experiences. They even wrote a book together, which speaks to their strong partnership. Their connection is, very clearly, a big part of their lives. They seem to enjoy every moment, whether it is working on the farm or traveling together, and that is pretty inspiring.

Activism and Community Involvement

Beyond her personal life, Hilarie Burton Young is also very active in various causes and her local community. She uses her platform to speak out on issues she cares about, including women's rights and mental health awareness. She is, in a way, a strong advocate for things she believes in. She also supports local businesses and initiatives, showing a deep commitment to where she lives.

She has been vocal about her experiences in the entertainment industry, contributing to important conversations about workplace safety and respect. Her willingness to share her story has helped others feel heard and seen. This kind of honesty is, quite frankly, very important. She also co-owns a candy store and a general store in her town, further cementing her ties to the community and supporting local commerce, which is pretty cool.

Hilarie Burton Young Today: New Projects and Lasting Impact

As of late 2023, Hilarie Burton Young continues to be a busy person, balancing her acting career with her personal life and other ventures. She is, apparently, always looking for new ways to express herself and connect with people. Her career path shows a desire for growth and authentic experiences. It is, in a way, a very personal and thoughtful approach to her work.

Current Work and Future Outlook

She has been involved in new acting projects, sometimes returning to roles that fans love, and sometimes taking on fresh characters. Her work on the podcast "Drama Queens" with her "One Tree Hill" co-stars, Sophia Bush and Bethany Joy Lenz, has been a huge hit. They revisit old episodes, share behind-the-scenes stories, and discuss their experiences. This podcast is, basically, a way for fans to reconnect with them and for them to share their truth.

She also released a book, "The Rural Diaries: Love, Livestock, and Big Life Lessons Down on an Accidental Farm," which became a New York Times bestseller. This book gives readers a more intimate look into her life and her journey to finding happiness away from the hustle of city life. It is, you know, a very honest and personal account. She continues to explore new avenues for creative expression, whether through writing, podcasting, or acting, which is truly inspiring.

Her Enduring Connection with Fans

One thing that stands out about Hilarie Burton Young is her strong and lasting connection with her fans. She is very open and honest on social media, sharing parts of her life and engaging with her followers. This direct communication has helped maintain a loyal fanbase over the years. It is, in some respects, a very modern way to stay connected, and she does it very well.

Her fans appreciate her authenticity and her willingness to be vulnerable. She often uses her platform to discuss important topics, offering support and encouragement to others. This genuine interaction has built a community around her, making her more than just an actress. She is, very clearly, someone who values her relationship with the people who support her work, and that is a beautiful thing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hilarie Burton Young

People often have questions about Hilarie Burton Young, whether it is about her career or her life outside of acting. Here are some common things people wonder about, you know, based on what others ask.

Is Hilarie Burton still acting?

Yes, she is still very much acting. While she has taken on other projects like writing and podcasting, she continues to appear in television shows and movies. She has, you know, been quite active in recent years, taking on various roles that show her range. So, fans can definitely look forward to seeing her on screen again.

Where does Hilarie Burton live?

Hilarie Burton Young lives on a farm in upstate New York with her husband, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, and their children. They moved there to have a quieter, more grounded life away from the busy city. It is, basically, a place where they can enjoy nature and raise their family in a more rural setting. She often shares glimpses of her farm life, which is pretty cool.

Who is Hilarie Burton married to?

Hilarie Burton Young is married to fellow actor Jeffrey Dean Morgan. They have been together for many years and officially tied the knot in 2019. They have two children together, a son and a daughter. Their relationship is, you know, quite public, and they often show their love and support for each other, which is very sweet to see.

A Lasting Impression

Hilarie Burton Young has truly made a lasting impression, both on screen and through her genuine approach to life. Her journey from a music video host to a respected actress, author, and advocate shows a person who is, you know, always growing and finding new ways to connect. She really seems to embrace every part of her path, which is pretty inspiring. Her commitment to family and community, alongside her creative pursuits, paints a picture of someone who is very much in touch with what matters most. We invite you to learn more about her journey on our site, and perhaps explore our related content to discover more about figures who inspire us. For more details on her acting work, you can visit her IMDb page.

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