Is it possible for a breakout role to reshape an actor's trajectory and leave an indelible mark on television history? Jake Borelli's journey, from recurring roles to becoming a prominent figure in the medical drama Grey's Anatomy, emphatically suggests yes. His portrayal of Levi Schmitt not only captivated audiences but also broke ground, fostering a new level of representation on screen.
Born on May 13, 1991, in Columbus, Ohio, Jake Borelli's path to Hollywood wasn't a straight line. He demonstrated artistic talent early, winning a national art competition during his final year of high school, a testament to his creative inclinations. While his artistic prowess was evident, the stage beckoned, leading him to pursue acting. He is known for his roles in "The Thundermans" and "Grey's Anatomy", and his work has garnered attention and acclaim, transforming him into a recognizable face in the industry.
Full Name | Jake Borelli |
Date of Birth | May 13, 1991 |
Birthplace | Columbus, Ohio, USA |
Nationality | American |
Ethnicity | White |
Parents | Linda Borelli and Mike Borelli |
Siblings | Ben Borelli and Zack Borelli |
Known For | Grey's Anatomy, The Thundermans, The Thing About Harry |
Character as Levi Schmitt | Grey Sloan Memorial's first gay male series regular, exited grey's anatomy in season 20 due to budget cuts. |
Came Out | 2018 (as gay) |
Partner | Chase Williamson (since 2022) |
Other Notable Work | #RealityHigh (2017), iCarly (2020) |
Reference | IMDB |
Borelli's early career included a recurring role on Nickelodeon's "The Thundermans," where he played Wolfgang. This established his presence in the industry and provided a platform to hone his acting skills. However, it was his casting in the long-running ABC medical drama "Grey's Anatomy" that catapulted him to greater recognition.
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In "Grey's Anatomy," Borelli stepped into the role of Levi Schmitt, a character that resonated with audiences for his vulnerability and genuine portrayal of a young doctor navigating the challenges of a demanding profession. The character's storyline included a significant development: Schmitt's coming out as gay, a storyline that was handled with sensitivity and authenticity. This portrayal marked a crucial moment for representation on mainstream television, making Schmitt the first gay male series regular on the show and, in turn, broadening the scope of LGBTQ+ representation in television.
His character, Levi Schmitt, became a fan favorite. Borelli's performance earned him significant praise for his portrayal of a character grappling with personal and professional challenges. Speaking about the role, and the impact the character had on the audience, Borelli noted that he received thousands of messages of support from fans who identified with Schmitt's experiences. This highlights the power of representation and the impact of seeing one's identity reflected on screen.
The path hasn't always been smooth. The industry is notorious for its challenges, and budget cuts, especially, can have a profound impact on cast members. Despite the character's popularity, news broke in May 2024 that Borelli was leaving "Grey's Anatomy" after six seasons. This was reportedly due to budget cuts associated with the renewal for Season 21, as reported by Deadline. This reflects the reality of the entertainment business, where financial considerations can sometimes outweigh creative decisions.
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Even though his departure from the show was a surprise, it wasn't the end for Schmitt. In the finale of season 20, Schmitt received an offer for a pediatric research job in Texas, setting up a storyline for his departure. The upcoming episode on May 8 teased Schmitt's departure, with a trailer hinting at the character's imminent exit. However, the door may not be completely closed. Recent reports suggest a possible return in Season 21 to conclude Schmitt's storyline, allowing the character to move to Texas with his boyfriend, James, adding a sense of closure to his arc. As ABC announced in April 2024, "Grey's Anatomy" will return for its 21st season later this year.
The impact of Borelli's portrayal of Levi Schmitt goes beyond mere entertainment. In a world where visibility and representation are vital, Schmitt's character offered a glimpse into the experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. The character's journey of self-discovery and acceptance provided inspiration and comfort to viewers who could relate to his struggles. His ability to portray the complexity of the character earned him both critical and popular acclaim, solidifying his reputation as a versatile actor.
Alongside "Grey's Anatomy," Borelli has taken on roles in other projects, showcasing his versatility. In 2020, he appeared in "The Thing About Harry," playing Sam Baselli, further demonstrating his ability to play a variety of characters. Additionally, he took on a role in the series "iCarly."
Jake Borellis career serves as a reminder of the impact one role can have on an actor's life and on the landscape of television. His career, which began with smaller roles, has culminated in a role that is significant. The legacy of his character, Levi Schmitt, is one of visibility, authenticity, and acceptance, and his contribution to television will be remembered. In the context of "Grey's Anatomy," Borelli has been a driving force in making the series a space that is welcoming of many people. His work, both on and off-screen, has left an enduring impact, and his journey will inspire many to follow their own path.
The future looks bright for Borelli. He continues to take on new projects, and there's no doubt his talent will continue to be recognized. The world awaits to see what the next chapter brings in his career, and with his talent and dedication, Borelli is sure to make a mark in the entertainment industry.



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