Keanu Reeves is not just the “Internet’s boyfriend” – he’s also one of Hollywood’s most beloved and respected figures. From his earliest days in Cornflakes and Coca-Cola commercials to becoming Neo in The Matrix or the stoic assassin John Wick, Reeves’ four-decade journey is a portrait of persistence, passion, and rare humility.

Humble Beginnings

At 15, Keanu decided to pursue acting, and by 20 he gave his first interview with ET for the TV movie Young Again. Back then, he still went by the nickname “KC” and carried a boyish naivety, but behind it burned a clear ambition: to make it in Hollywood.

Watch Keanu Reeves' Journey to Action Star in RARE Interviews (ET Vault  Unlocked)

Bill & Ted – The Breakthrough That Made Him a Star

In 1989, Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure launched Keanu and Alex Winter into pop culture history as the ultimate “slacker” duo. Their goofy charm and “party on, dude!” energy made them an instant phenomenon. Even three decades later, Reeves still holds a special fondness for playing Ted.

Action Breakthrough: Point Break and Speed

By the early ’90s, Keanu had fully stepped into the world of action films with Point Break, alongside Patrick Swayze. From daring surf scenes to the reckless energy of “Johnny Utah,” Reeves showcased his natural star power. Just a few years later, Speed (1994) became a box-office smash that cemented him as a true A-lister. With his cropped hair, high-octane stunts, and electric chemistry with Sandra Bullock, Keanu was officially etched into global memory.

Neo – The Chosen One in The Matrix

In 1999, Reeves embodied Neo in The Matrix – a role that revolutionized action cinema and his career. The groundbreaking bullet-time sequences, grueling martial arts training, and philosophical depth of the film elevated him to legendary status. As he once said: “I’d take the red pill, because that’s where the interesting things happen.”

Watch Keanu Reeves' Journey to Action Star in RARE Interviews (ET Vault  Unlocked) - YouTube

John Wick – A Renaissance at 50

After years of diverse projects, Keanu once again conquered audiences with John Wick (2014). As the retired assassin with sorrowful eyes and unmatched combat skills, Reeves became the face of a new action era. Training in jiu-jitsu, judo, firearms, and stunt driving for months, he brought authenticity to every frame. “That movie changed my life,” he admitted.

The Man Behind the Star

Beyond the spotlight, Keanu Reeves is admired for his humility and kindness. Colleagues call him “the nicest guy in the world,” while fans have created countless memes celebrating his down-to-earth nature. Despite his private lifestyle, Reeves has found happiness with artist Alexandra Grant. He sums it up simply: “You can’t demand magic to appear. You have to discover it.”

Watch Keanu Reeves' Journey to Action Star in RARE Interviews (ET Vault  Unlocked) - YouTube

More Than Just a Star

Reeves is more than an actor. He’s a musician with his band Dogstar, a motorcycle enthusiast, and an inspiration to younger artists like Michael B. Jordan. In every role, on or off screen, Keanu embodies the same philosophy: work hard, love deeply, and treasure life.