Josh Hutcherson on Reclaiming His Internet Boyfriend Title
If you grew up in the mid to late 2000s, you likely had a crush on Josh Hutcherson. He was a classic "first crush" in early family films like Zathura, Bridge to Terabithia, and Journey to the Center of the Earth, before gaining more fame starring in The Hunger Games series.
New Role and Internet Fame
Now 33, Hutcherson stars in the 2025 HBO comedy I Love LA. In the show, he plays the boyfriend to the main character Maia, portrayed by creator and star Rachel Sennott, known for leading Bottoms in 2023.
Hutcherson's Reaction to the Internet Boyfriend Label
When asked by Bustle if he was "ready to reclaim" his internet boyfriend status, Hutcherson laughed and said he wasn’t aware he'd had that title before.
"I had no idea I ever had such a title."
What Is an Internet Boyfriend?
The term refers to celebrities who inspire a lot of online admiration and are often the object of fans' fantasies. Recent examples include Pedro Pascal, Jeremy Allen White from The Bear, Jonathan Bailey from Bridgerton (recently named "sexiest man alive"), and various co-stars of Daisy Edgar Jones.
On Set Dynamics
During the interview, Hutcherson was accompanied by his I Love LA co-star Leighton Meester, who shared a lighthearted exchange with him.
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Author's summary: Josh Hutcherson, known for his early family roles, reacts humorously to his internet boyfriend label while starring in HBO's new comedy I Love LA.