Ryan Paevey

Ryan Paevey – Life, Career, and Memorable Quotes

Ryan Paevey (born September 24, 1984) is an American actor and model known for his role as Nathan West on General Hospital and for starring in many Hallmark Channel films. This article explores his early life, career path, philosophy, famous quotes, and his evolving legacy.

Introduction

Ryan Jacob Paevey (full name Ryan Jacob Paevey-Vlieger) is an American actor and model whose blend of charisma, authenticity, and outdoorsy appeal has earned him a loyal fanbase.

Though many know him from daytime television and romantic films, his journey reflects a mix of unexpected turns and intentional choices—from modeling to soap opera stardom to Hallmark leading man roles, and recently stepping back to rebalance.

Early Life and Family

Ryan Paevey was born on September 24, 1984 in Torrance, California, U.S.

He was raised in Los Angeles, where he ran track and cross country in high school, evidencing athleticism early on.

Although acting was not his original goal, he was scouted for modeling while still in high school, which opened doors for commercial work and eventually acting.

Career Path & Breakthrough

Modeling & Early Work

Paevey’s entertainment journey began with modeling rather than acting. “Sex Therapy” and Christina Aguilera’s “Your Body”.

Eventually, he was encouraged by agents and industry contacts to audition for acting roles, transitioning from modeling into on-screen storytelling.

General Hospital & Television Success

Paevey's major acting breakthrough came in 2013, when he was cast as Nathan West on the soap opera General Hospital.

His portrayal of Nathan—often in romantic arcs, detective plots, and family drama—won him visibility and a strong connection with daytime audiences.

During his time on GH, Paevey also made guest appearances on shows like Hollywood Heights and The Client List.

Hallmark & Romantic Film Roles

Following his soap success, Paevey became a familiar face in the Hallmark Channel universe. Some of his notable made-for-TV movies include:

• Unleashing Mr. Darcy (2016) as Donovan Darcy

• Marrying Mr. Darcy (sequel, 2018)

• Harvest Love (2017)

• Hope at Christmas (2018)

• Matching Hearts (2020)

• A Timeless Christmas (2020)

• Fourth Down and Love (2023)

• Under the Christmas Sky (2023)

These roles capitalized on Paevey’s romantic leading man appeal, his warm screen presence, and the Hallmark tradition of heartfelt storytelling.

Hiatus & Recent Developments

In 2024, Paevey announced that he was stepping back from acting. He cited the emotional strain of the industry, mental health challenges, and a desire to be closer to family—especially as his mother had been diagnosed with lung cancer.

But in August 2025, news broke that he would be returning to General Hospital in September, raising anticipation among fans about whether he would reprise Nathan West or take on a new role.

He has also developed a brand and creative platform called Fortunate Wanderer, which sells photography prints, handmade jewelry, and outdoor gear—reflecting his passion for nature, art, and craftsmanship.

Personality, Values & Passions

Ryan Paevey is often described as a “nature boy”—someone who finds solace, renewal, and identity through the outdoors.

He has also spoken openly about humility: he once said he has “way more experience being poor than I do having money.”

Paevey frequently emphasizes integrity: he credited General Hospital for teaching him about acting, and has expressed gratitude for opportunities he believes he didn't initially expect.

Famous Quotes

Here are some memorable quotes from Ryan Paevey that reflect his attitudes and personality:

• “I have way more experience being poor than I do having money.”

• “Hallmark has been really, really good to me. It is very much like a family.”

• “I’m always happy to get folded into the Hallmark family.”

• “I never wanted to be an actor, and then ‘GH’ was the first time where my managers were like, ‘Quit your day job. You got a thing.’”

• “If it’s between s’mores and cotton candy, I’m gonna have to go s’mores all the way… but in truth, I’m a gummy bears guy.”

These reflect his groundedness, gratitude, charm, and his comfortable embrace of simple pleasures.

Lessons from Ryan Paevey’s Journey

From his life and career, several lessons emerge:

1. Be open to unexpected paths.
   Paevey didn’t set out to be an actor, yet opportunities from modeling led him into performance.

2. Stay grounded and true to your roots.
   His reflections on having known hardship keep him humble amid success.

3. Balance matters.
   Stepping back when things become overwhelming shows the value of self-care, family, and mental health.

4. Cultivate multiple interests.
   His love for photography, jewelry, nature, and design gives him creative outlets beyond acting.

5. Express gratitude openly.
   He often credits the people and institutions that supported his early career, instead of claiming success as self-made alone.

Conclusion

Ryan Paevey has built a career that combines charm, sincerity, and versatility—moving from modeling to daytime drama to the romantic film world. His decision to pause acting to focus on family and wellness speaks to his values and self-awareness. As he returns (in 2025) to General Hospital, many fans celebrate both the nostalgia and the new chapters ahead.