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Taylor Lautner is widely recognized for his role as Jacob in the Twilight franchise, a character that became iconic in the realm of teen fantasy romance. While his connection to Taylor Swift and his acrobatic feats in Sharkboy and Lava Girl may also come to mind, his portrayal of the werewolf Jacob remains a defining element of his career.
Lautner secured the role of Jacob at the age of 16 and had to fight to retain the character for subsequent movies in the franchise. He dedicated himself to rigorous workouts between films to embody the transformed, buff Jacob envisioned for New Moon.
It’s worth noting that Jacob and the werewolves in Forks, Washington, are portrayed as members of the Quileute Nation, an actual Native American tribe residing in La Push, Washington. The incorporation of Quileute culture in the Twilight series drew criticism from the real Quileute people, who felt their culture was misrepresented.
Despite playing a Quileute character, Taylor Lautner has no recent Native American genealogy. He revealed his predominantly French, Dutch, and German ancestry in a 2008 MTV interview. While he discovered some connection to Potowatomi and Ottawa Native people, it’s essential to recognize the distinction between his heritage and the Quileute Nation.
Although not genetically linked to the Quileute Nation, Lautner acknowledged the importance of researching his character’s culture and heritage. The Twilight franchise heavily adapted Quileute legends, art, and culture, necessitating a deeper understanding to portray Jacob authentically.
In his post-Twilight career, Taylor Lautner has embraced a podcasting venture called The Squeeze, co-hosted with his wife Tay. The podcast explores topics related to mental health and navigating life’s challenges. Lautner has also maintained an amicable relationship with ex-girlfriend Taylor Swift, even making appearances in her music videos and summer tour.
Overall, Taylor Lautner has transitioned from teen heartthrob status to a multifaceted individual engaged in meaningful conversations about mental health, showcasing a positive trajectory in his post-Twilight career.