Who Is Wilson Bethel? Biography, Career Highlights, and More

Wilson Bethel is an American actor and screenwriter, best known for his role as Wade Kinsella in the hit TV series Hart of Dixie. With his charismatic screen presence, rugged good looks, and natural acting talent, he has won the hearts of audiences worldwide. Over the years, Wilson Bethel has taken on a variety of roles, from romantic leads to action-packed performances in shows like Daredevil. But who is he beyond the screen? Let’s dive into his early life, career, personal life, and future projects.
Quick Bio
Full Name | Stephen Wilson Bethel |
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Date of Birth | February 24, 1984 |
Age | 40 years old (as of 2024) |
Birthplace | Hillsborough, New Hampshire, USA |
Nationality | American |
Profession | Actor, Screenwriter, Producer |
Notable Works | Hart of Dixie, Daredevil, The Young and the Restless |
Parents | Joyce Maynard (author), Father (unknown) |
Height | 6 feet 0 inches (1.83 meters) |
Marital Status | Married to Liesl Martinez-Balaguer |
Social Media | Active on Instagram & Twitter |
Early Life and Background

Wilson Bethel was born on February 24, 1984, in Hillsborough, New Hampshire, USA. He comes from a family with a strong literary background. His mother, Joyce Maynard, is a well-known author and journalist, famous for her novels and essays. However, Wilson has largely kept details about his father private.
Growing up, Bethel was surrounded by creativity and storytelling, which influenced his passion for acting. He spent much of his childhood in a free-spirited and artistic environment, which later helped him develop his skills as a performer.
Education and Acting Beginnings
Unlike many actors who pursue formal training at acting schools, Wilson Bethel took a different route. While he attended high school, he was more drawn to performance and storytelling than academics. He moved to Los Angeles in his late teens, where he started auditioning for roles.
His first break came when he was cast in small roles in TV series and short films. Although these roles were minor, they helped him gain experience and refine his acting skills. His dedication and persistence soon paid off when he landed more prominent roles in television.
Breakthrough in Acting Career
Wilson Bethel’s first major break came in 2008 when he was cast as Cpl. Evan ‘Q-Tip’ Stafford in the critically acclaimed HBO miniseries Generation Kill. This gritty war drama showcased his ability to take on intense and dramatic roles, earning him recognition in the industry.
His performance in Generation Kill led to more auditions and opportunities, and soon, he was cast in supporting roles in television and film. However, his biggest breakthrough was just around the corner.
Major Roles and Achievements
Wilson Bethel became a household name when he starred as Wade Kinsella in Hart of Dixie (2011-2015). The show, a romantic comedy-drama, featured Bethel as the charming, rebellious bartender who became a fan favorite.
Some of his most notable roles include:
- Hart of Dixie (2011–2015) – As Wade Kinsella, a small-town bartender with a big heart
- Daredevil (2018) – Played Benjamin Poindexter (Bullseye), a skilled assassin and one of Daredevil’s most dangerous foes
- The Young and the Restless (2020-2021) – Portrayed Ryder Callahan in the long-running soap opera
- All Rise (2019–2023) – Played Mark Callan, a deputy district attorney
Bethel’s acting range and versatility have made him a sought-after talent in Hollywood.
Wilson Bethel in Hart of Dixie
Hart of Dixie was the show that truly put Wilson Bethel on the map. Playing Wade Kinsella, he became the quintessential bad boy with a heart of gold, making him a favorite among fans.
His on-screen chemistry with Rachel Bilson (who played Zoe Hart) was one of the highlights of the show. Over the seasons, audiences watched Wade evolve from a reckless bartender to a devoted partner and father. This role cemented Bethel’s status as a romantic lead in Hollywood.
Even after the show ended in 2015, his portrayal of Wade Kinsella remains iconic, and fans still celebrate his performance.
Other Notable Projects
After Hart of Dixie, Wilson Bethel took on diverse roles, proving he could do more than just play the charming bad boy.
- Daredevil (2018) – His role as Benjamin Poindexter (Bullseye) was darker and more intense than his previous characters. He played an FBI agent-turned-villain, which showed his ability to handle complex and psychologically challenging roles.
- All Rise (2019–2023) – He played Mark Callan, a deputy district attorney in this legal drama. His performance was praised for its depth and emotional intensity.
He continues to take on exciting new projects, keeping fans eager to see what he does next.
Wilson Bethel’s Personal Life
Despite being in the entertainment industry, Wilson Bethel values privacy. He keeps his personal life low-key, rarely sharing details about his relationships or family.
However, it is known that he married Liesl Martinez-Balaguer, an artist and photographer, in 2020. The couple leads a private yet creative life, often traveling and working on artistic projects together.
Outside of acting, Bethel enjoys writing, music, and outdoor activities. He has a passion for screenwriting and hopes to create his own film and television projects in the future.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2024, Wilson Bethel is 40 years old. He maintains a fit and athletic build, standing at 6 feet 0 inches (1.83 meters) tall.
His sharp features, blonde hair, and piercing blue eyes make him a recognizable face in Hollywood. Over the years, he has remained one of the most attractive and stylish actors in the industry.
Wilson Bethel’s Relationships
Wilson Bethel has been linked to a few relationships in the past, but he has always kept his romantic life private.
In 2020, he married Liesl Martinez-Balaguer, marking a new chapter in his personal life. The couple enjoys a low-profile and artistic lifestyle, avoiding the media spotlight.
Social Media and Public Presence
Wilson Bethel is moderately active on social media, particularly on Instagram and Twitter. He uses these platforms to share career updates, behind-the-scenes content, and personal moments.
While he doesn’t post frequently, fans appreciate his insights into his projects and daily life.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
As of 2024, Wilson Bethel’s estimated net worth is between $4 million and $6 million. His earnings come from:
- Acting in TV shows and movies
- Screenwriting and production projects
- Brand endorsements and collaborations
With his growing career, his net worth is expected to increase in the coming years.
Conclusion
Wilson Bethel has built an impressive career, from his early days in Generation Kill to becoming a fan-favorite in Hart of Dixie and Daredevil. His versatility, talent, and dedication continue to make him a respected name in Hollywood.
With exciting future projects on the horizon, fans eagerly await what’s next for Wilson Bethel in the entertainment industry.
FAQs
Who is Wilson Bethel?
Wilson Bethel is an American actor and screenwriter, best known for his roles in Hart of Dixie and Daredevil.
How old is Wilson Bethel?
Wilson Bethel was born on February 24, 1984, making him 40 years old as of 2024.
Where is Wilson Bethel from?
He was born in Hillsborough, New Hampshire, USA, and later moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting.
What are Wilson Bethel’s most famous roles?
He is best known for playing Wade Kinsella in Hart of Dixie and Benjamin Poindexter (Bullseye) in Daredevil.
Is Wilson Bethel married?
Yes, Wilson Bethel is married to Liesl Martinez-Balaguer, an artist and photographer, since 2020.
What is Wilson Bethel’s height?
He stands at 6 feet 0 inches (1.83 meters) tall.
Is Wilson Bethel active on social media?
Yes, he is active on Instagram and Twitter, where he shares updates on his work and personal life.
What is Wilson Bethel’s net worth?
As of 2024, his estimated net worth is between $4 million and $6 million, earned through acting and writing.
What upcoming projects is Wilson Bethel working on?
While he keeps his future projects private, he continues to work on film, TV, and writing endeavors.
Did Wilson Bethel start as a writer?
Yes! In addition to acting, he has a passion for screenwriting and producing, aiming to create his own projects.
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