Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Bryan Dattilo

Bryan Dattilo (born Bryan Ronald Dattilo on July 29, 1971) is an American best known for portraying on the long-running NBC daytime soap opera , a role he originated in 1993 and has reprised intermittently through 2025. Born in , to a mother who worked as a newspaper reporter, Dattilo grew up with an older brother, a sister, and three younger half-sisters; his family relocated first to and later to , where he graduated from in 1989. He subsequently studied at . Dattilo began his acting career as a child, signing with The Savage Agency at age nine and appearing alongside his sister in a recurring role on the satirical news series Not Necessarily the News. His early television credits include guest spots on shows such as Charles in Charge (1988), Doogie Howser, M.D., In the Heat of the Night (as Boyd Gardner in 1991), and California Dreams (as Ted in 1992). He also featured in films like The Adventures of Grizzly Adams and Arcade (1993). Beyond soaps, Dattilo has appeared in episodes of CSI: NY (as Lucas Garlobo in 2006) and starred in the web series Youthful Daze (2012–2019), as well as the award-winning short film Gaydar. His tenure on Days of Our Lives has been marked by multiple hiatuses, including from 2001 to 2002 and a two-year break ending in 2012, but he continues to return for key storylines, including ongoing appearances as of November 2025 for the show's 60th anniversary celebrations. Over the years, Dattilo has earned several accolades for his performance as the ambitious and often conflicted Lucas Horton, including a 1995 Young Artist Award nomination for Best Performance by a Youth Actor in a Daytime Series, a 2005 Soap Opera Digest Award win for Favorite New Couple (shared with co-star Alison Sweeney), and a 2015 Gold Derby TV Award for Supporting Actor in a Daytime Drama. He has also received multiple Daytime Emmy pre-nominations between 2004 and 2013. In addition to acting, Dattilo ventured into music with the release of his rap album Still Getting' Paid in 2001 and has written poetry. On a personal note, he was married to Jessica Lahm from 1999 to 2001 and has been married to Elizabeth Cameron since 2011; he has two children and resides in Los Angeles, where he enjoys surfing, traveling, baseball, and basketball, while actively raising awareness for autism through support of related charities due to his son's diagnosis.

Early life and education

Childhood and family background

Bryan Dattilo was born on July 29, 1971, in . He grew up in a family of descent, with an older brother named Brent, an older sister named Kristin, and three younger half-sisters named Tiffany, Anna, and Tess. His parents divorced when Dattilo was two years old, in a highly acrimonious split that involved ongoing . The contentious nature of the led his parents to frequently criticize each other through their children, straining family relationships. This dynamic had a long-term impact on Dattilo's bond with his father, as he later recalled, "For a long time I wasn’t close to my dad because my parents were constantly taking stabs at each other through their kids." Despite the early difficulties, Dattilo has since developed a close relationship with his father. Following the divorce, Dattilo moved with his mother, Peggy—a reporter who later founded her own entertainment company—and his siblings first to . The family later relocated to a small apartment in , when Dattilo was around eight years old, seeking new opportunities in the entertainment hub. After this initial move to , the family returned to when Dattilo was around 11 years old, before relocating back to shortly thereafter. This move immersed the family in the industry's environment, fostering Dattilo's early interest in alongside his sister Kristin.

Schooling and early interests

Bryan Dattilo attended , where he graduated in 1989. During his time there, he balanced academics with athletic pursuits, achieving notable success on the team before academic challenges, including failing , temporarily sidelined him from sports such as and prevented participation in . His early interests extended beyond athletics to , where he earned black belts in both and , reflecting a disciplined approach that complemented his physical activities. Dattilo also enjoyed playing , a that persisted from his . These pursuits, along with his initial exposure to —beginning with lessons around age eight or nine shortly after his family's move to —helped shape his formative years. Following high school, Dattilo briefly enrolled at , majoring in psychology, but ultimately chose to forgo further studies in favor of pursuing full-time. This decision marked a pivotal shift, allowing him to focus on the passion ignited during his high school involvement in performance-related activities.

Acting career

Breakthrough and early roles

Bryan Dattilo began his acting career as a , securing his first professional role at age 10 on the satirical series Not Necessarily the News, where he appeared as Elliot in a parodying . This debut opportunity came shortly after he started taking acting lessons alongside his sister at age nine, marking the start of his entry into the industry. Throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s, Dattilo built his resume with guest spots on several popular television series, showcasing his versatility in teen and family-oriented dramas and comedies. Notable appearances include playing Charlie Morris on Doogie Howser, M.D. in 1990, Jeff on Charles in Charge in 1989, Boyd Gardner on In the Heat of the Night in 1991, a guest role as Danny on Saved by the Bell in 1990, Teddy on California Dreams in 1992, and a part on Class of '96 in 1993. These roles, often portraying everyday teenagers or supporting characters, helped establish his presence in youth-targeted programming during that era. Dattilo's transition to young adult roles gained momentum with his feature film debut in (1993), where he portrayed the character Greg in the sci-fi about a deadly . This project, released the same year he graduated from —where his involvement in school theater had honed his skills—signaled his shift toward more mature projects as he entered his early twenties.

Role on Days of Our Lives

Bryan Dattilo was cast as on the Days of Our Lives in 1993, marking his breakthrough into as the character originally named Lucas Roberts. His tenure has been intermittent, spanning over three decades with major stints from 1993 to 2001, 2002 to 2009, and returns including 2012 onward, including a promotion to contract status in 2020 that solidified his role in ongoing narratives. Lucas Horton, son of Kate Roberts and initially presumed son of a DiMera associate, was revealed as the illegitimate son of Bill Horton in 2007, leading to his and integration into the storied Horton family legacy as a grandson of founders Tom and . This tie anchored him in Salem's foundational family dynamics, often contrasting his impulsive nature with the Hortons' values of resilience and community. Key relationships defined his arc, including tumultuous marriages to —resulting in children and Allie Horton—along with unions to , , and a brief engagement to Adrienne Kiriakis. Conflicts frequently stemmed from these romances, such as custody battles over Will, framing Sami for murder, and a 2014 prison stint for shooting amid DiMera family feuds. A recurring theme was Lucas's battle with , portrayed as a recovered but vulnerable struggle that exacerbated his isolation and poor decisions, particularly after personal losses like Will's presumed death in 2015. Dattilo's performance earned recognition, including a 2005 Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite New Couple shared with for the Lucas-Sami pairing, and a 2015 Gold Derby TV Award for in a Drama. In recent years, Dattilo reprised the role for impactful storylines, including a 2024 return amid the death of Doug Williams, where Lucas supported grandmother Julie Williams through her grief and reunited with son during the family's mourning. This arc extended into 2025, emphasizing Lucas's role in Horton family healing and legacy preservation following the loss. The longevity of Dattilo's portrayal has cemented his status as a icon, boosting his fame through fan loyalty and convention appearances while occasionally him as the brooding heartthrob, influencing his selective pursuits outside the genre.

Other television and film appearances

In addition to his long-running role on , Bryan Dattilo has made several guest appearances on primetime television and reality shows, showcasing his versatility beyond soap operas. One notable guest spot was in the 2006 episode "Cool Hunter" of , where he portrayed Lucas Garlobo, a suspect in a investigation involving a doorwoman's death. This role highlighted Dattilo's ability to adapt to formats, drawing on his dramatic skills in a one-off capacity. Dattilo also appeared on talk and reality programming, often promoting his soap work or participating in character. In 2007, he was a guest on during season 5, episode 62, alongside and dog show commentator David Frei, where he discussed his career and engaged in light-hearted segments typical of the daytime format. Similarly, in 2006, he featured on , a syndicated daytime talk series focused on relationships, contributing to discussions as a celebrity guest. These appearances allowed Dattilo to connect with broader audiences through humor and personal anecdotes. On the reality competition front, Dattilo joined fellow cast members as a guest diner in the 2013 episode "Sex, Greed and Murder" of season 5, judging dishes themed around tropes while appearing in character as Lucas Roberts. This crossover event emphasized the playful intersection of soap stardom and culinary challenges, with Dattilo and co-stars like and adding entertainment value to the series. Dattilo's film work includes smaller roles in independent projects. In the 2002 short comedy Gaydar, directed by Larry LaFond, he played Jack, a co-worker at the center of a humorous plot involving a fictional device to detect sexual orientation, earning the film multiple awards at film festivals. Later, in 2012, he took on the recurring role of Eric in the web series Youthful Daze, a soap-style drama that explored young adult relationships and aired online, providing Dattilo an opportunity to engage with digital media audiences. More recently, in August 2025, Dattilo participated in a surprise reunion with soap legends Susan Seaforth Hayes, Thaao Penghlis, and Leann Hunley at the Queen Mary in Long Beach, California, an event celebrating daytime television history that he shared on social media, underscoring his ongoing ties to the genre. This gathering highlighted Dattilo's enduring presence in soap opera culture beyond scripted roles.

Personal life

Marriages and children

Bryan Dattilo married Jessica Denay on August 21, 1999. The couple welcomed their son, Bryan Dattilo, on December 16, 1999. was diagnosed with moderate as a , a revelation that initially left Dattilo feeling angry. Dattilo's son has a child, Gabriel Dattilo (b. 2020), making Dattilo a grandfather. Dattilo and Denay divorced in 2001. On July 12, 2011, Dattilo married Elizabeth Cameron in Palos Verdes, . The couple had a daughter, Delila Cameron Dattilo, on June 11, 2014. As of 2025, Dattilo, Cameron, and their daughter reside in , , alongside Dattilo's son from his first marriage.

Advocacy and hobbies

Dattilo has been a vocal for autism awareness, driven by his son Gabriel's diagnosis with spectrum disorder. He participates in fundraisers and events for , the leading autism science and advocacy organization, to raise funds and promote greater understanding of the condition. In a 2009 interview, Dattilo offered guidance to parents navigating similar diagnoses, emphasizing the importance of early intervention, seeking networks, and maintaining optimism, based on his family's journey. His openness about these experiences has contributed to broader public conversations on autism . In addition to advocacy, Dattilo pursues a range of personal hobbies that reflect his active lifestyle. He enjoys traveling to explore new places, along coastal areas, and playing and , activities he has shared as sources of relaxation and bonding. Dattilo also holds a in and , a discipline he has practiced for years. In late 2024, Dattilo's 10-year-old daughter Delila made her television debut on , appearing in holiday scenes set at Rice Plaza, marking a proud milestone in the industry.

References

  1. [1]
    Bryan Dattilo Biography, Celebrity Facts and Awards - TV Guide
    Raises awareness of Autism and supports a number of Autism-based charities · Studied Psychology at Santa Monica College after graduating from Beverly Hills High ...
  2. [2]
    About the Actors | Bryan Dattilo - Soap Central
    Bryan Dattilo was born in Kankakee, Illinois. He later moved with his family to Beverly Hills, where he attended Beverly Hills High School.
  3. [3]
    https://www.soaps.sheknows.com/days-of-our-lives/actors/bryan-dattilo/
  4. [4]
    Bryan Dattilo - IMDb
    Bryan Dattilo was born on 29 July 1971 in Kankakee, Illinois, USA. He is an actor and writer, known for Days of Our Lives (1965), Youthful Daze (2012) and ...
  5. [5]
    https://michaelfairmantv.com/days-of-our-lives-preview-60th-anniversary-week-major-returns/2025/11/08/
  6. [6]
    Five Fast Facts About Days of Our Lives Star Bryan Dattilo - Soap Hub
    Sep 19, 2019 · Dattilo was born on July 29 in Kankakee, Illinois and grew up with one brother, Brent, a sister, Kristin, and three half-sisters, Tiffany, Anna, ...
  7. [7]
    #TBT – Bryan R. Dattilo - Soap Opera Digest
    Mar 16, 2017 · Born in Kankakee, Illinois, Dattilo was only 2 years old when his parents split up. It was not a good divorce. “For a long time I wasn't close ...Missing: siblings | Show results with:siblings
  8. [8]
    Bryan Dattilo - Soaps.com
    Dattilo was born in Kankakee, Ill. His family later relocated first to Florida, then later, to Beverly Hills, where he attended Beverly Hills High School.
  9. [9]
    Bryan Dattilo Age, Net Worth, Family, Career Highlights & More
    Jan 24, 2025 · Date of Birth: July 29, 1971. Place of Birth: Kankakee, Illinois, USA ... Born in Kankakee, Illinois, Bryan Dattilo experienced significant ...Missing: siblings | Show results with:siblings
  10. [10]
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES Soap Hunk BRYAN DATTILO Began Career ...
    Jan 4, 2013 · Unbeknownst to many, Bryan began his own career as a child actor, winning his first role on the satirical television series ; Not Necessarily the News.Missing: move | Show results with:move
  11. [11]
    Bryan Dattilo - Trivia - IMDb
    Italian and Irish American. · Attended Beverly Hills High School. · Auditioned for the role of Tommy Oliver on the television series Mighty Morphin Power Rangers ...
  12. [12]
    #TBT - Bryan R. Dattilo - Soap Opera Digest
    May 26, 2022 · Born in Kankakee, Illinois, Dattilo was only 2 years old when his parents split up. It was not a good divorce. “For a long time I wasn't close ...Missing: siblings | Show results with:siblings
  13. [13]
    Bryan Dattilo - TV Guide
    Doogie Howser, M.D. as Charlie Morris. Doogie Howser, M.D. · In the Heat of the Night as Boyd Gardner. In the Heat of the Night · Charles in Charge as Jeff.
  14. [14]
    DOING THE DAYTIME HOP - Los Angeles Times
    Apr 18, 1993 · Also in the casting department, Bryan Dattilo was to make his ... Class of '96” and “Charles in Charge.” He was also seen on the HBO ...
  15. [15]
    https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1993-04-18-tv-24139-story.html
  16. [16]
    Lucas (Roberts) Horton - Soaps.com
    He and Sami became best friends and often conspired to break Austin and Carrie up so that Sami could be with Austin and he could be with Carrie. Lucas found ...
  17. [17]
    'Days Of Our Lives': Bryan Dattilo Upped To Contract Player ...
    Dec 14, 2020 · Starting today, Dec 14, Dattilo again will be a contract player. His character Lucas Horton will be part of a new storyline with co-stars ...
  18. [18]
    DAYS' Bryan Dattilo talks booze and Lucas' future - Soap Central
    Sep 19, 2017 · Days of our Lives' Bryan Dattilo opens up about Lucas hitting rock bottom and what viewers can expect in the weeks ahead.
  19. [19]
    Bryan Dattilo - Awards - IMDb
    Best Supporting Actor in a Daytime Serial. Days of Our Lives · Gold Derby Awards. Days of Our Lives (1965). 2015 Winner Gold Derby TV Award. Supporting Actor ...
  20. [20]
    Days of Our Lives (TV Series 1965– ) - Awards - IMDb
    Days of Our Lives (1965). 2005 Nominee Soap Opera Digest Award. Favorite ... 2015 Winner Gold Derby TV Award. Supporting Actor - Daytime Drama. Bryan Dattilo.
  21. [21]
    DAYS OF OUR LIVES: Doug's Death Brings Heartbreak to Julie and ...
    Nov 29, 2024 · Julie (Susan Seaforth Hayes) has learned from Jack (Matthew Ashford) that Doug has passed away in his sleep. Her entire world is rocked.
  22. [22]
    'Days of Our Lives' Fall 2025 Preview: Big Cast Returns ... - TV Insider
    Aug 28, 2025 · As the show moves toward the 60th anniversary celebration, look for the following beloved characters to return for a handful of episodes over ...
  23. [23]
    Bryan Dattilo Gets Candid About Days of Our Lives Co-Stars, Stolen ...
    Nov 6, 2015 · Now 44 years old, married and a father of two, the Illinois-born, Southern California-raised Dattilo is able to look back at his time on Days ...Missing: childhood | Show results with:childhood
  24. [24]
    "CSI: NY" Cool Hunter (TV Episode 2006) - IMDb
    Rating 7.2/10 (344) A doorwoman is found dead in the water tank of her apartment. All of the evidence which is readily available points to a doctor who lives in the building.
  25. [25]
    "Top Chef Masters" Sex, Greed and Murder (TV Episode 2013) - IMDb
    Rating 7.3/10 (14) The Chefs have to make a meal that represents one of the three basic staples of a soap opera - Sex, Murder and Greed.
  26. [26]
    Gaydar (Short 2002) - IMDb
    Rating 6.2/10 (246) Randy has a huge crush on hunky co-worker Jack, but Ray can't figure out if Jack is gay - until Jack discovers a GAYDAR gun that could change everything.
  27. [27]
    https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0340124/
  28. [28]
    'Days of Our Lives' Bryan Dattilo Reunites With Soap Legends at ...
    Aug 9, 2025 · Dattilo shared a photo on Instagram of the reunion as Susan Seaforth Hayes, Thaao Penghlis and Leann Hunley visited the Queen Marry. Dattilo ...
  29. [29]
    https://parade.com/news/days-of-our-lives-bryan-dattilo-reunites-with-soap-legends-at-queen-mary
  30. [30]
    Bryan Dattilo - Angelfire
    Spouse: Jessica Denay (August 21, 1999-2001) (divorced). Children: son - Gabriel (December 16, 1999). Siblings: older brother, older sister - Kristin (actress) ...Missing: marriage | Show results with:marriage
  31. [31]
    Days of our Lives Favorite Bryan Dattilo Celebrates His Birthday
    He joined the cast of Days of our Lives in 1993 and made his debut on the soap on April 15 of that year. Dattilo's character, Lucas Roberts, was initially ...Missing: early | Show results with:early
  32. [32]
    Bryan Dattilo Offers Advice to Parents of Children With Autism
    Jul 15, 2009 · Bryan Dattilo's world revolves around his son Gabriel, so when the 9 ½-year-old was diagnosed with moderate autism as a toddler, that world ...
  33. [33]
    https://soaps.sheknows.com/days-of-our-lives/news/658913/days-of-our-lives-bryan-dattilo-introduces-grandson-photo/
  34. [34]
    Bryan Dattilo - Biography - IMDb
    Bryan Dattilo was born on July 29, 1971 in Kankakee, Illinois, USA. He is an actor and writer, known for Days of Our Lives (1965), Youthful Daze (2012) and ...
  35. [35]
    Days of our Lives Bryan Dattilo Wishes Wife Happy Anniversary
    Jul 13, 2020 · Dattilo also has a son, Gabriel Bryan, from a previous marriage to Jessica Denay. Gabe, as he is called, has a highly functional form of ...
  36. [36]
    Delila Dattilo, Daughter Of DAYS's Bryan Dattilo, Lands Role On ...
    Nov 14, 2024 · Dattilo (Lucas) and his wife, Elizabeth Cameron, will appear on an upcoming episode of General Hospital. Her proud pop broke the news on ...Missing: debut | Show results with:debut