Cole Sprouse | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : February 07, 2025

Who is Cole Sprouse?

Cole Sprouse is a prominently recognized actor and photographer best known for his roles as a child star in television series and films alongside his identical twin brother Dylan. Born on August 4, 1992, in Arezzo, Italy, Cole rose to fame through shows like “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody,” where he portrayed the thoughtful twin Cody Martin. This Disney Channel show significantly boosted his career, earning him recognition and a considerable fan base. Despite his success as a child actor, Cole decided to prioritize education, pursuing a degree in archaeology at New York University, which he completed in 2015.

After his time at Disney, Cole Sprouse made a notable return to acting in 2017 when he landed the role of Jughead Jones in the popular teen drama series “Riverdale.” His portrayal of Jughead, an outsider and the show's narrator, showcased his ability to transition from childhood fame to adult roles. Alongside his burgeoning acting career, Cole has embraced his passion for photography, using it as a creative outlet. His photography has overlapped with his acting career, allowing him to express his artistic vision while engaging with a diverse range of subjects, from models to magazine covers.

Early Life and Education

Cole Sprouse was born on August 4, 1992, in Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy, just fifteen minutes after his identical twin brother, Dylan. Their parents, Matthew Sprouse and Melanie Wright, were English teachers residing in Italy at the time. The family relocated to Southern California when the twins were only four months old, setting the stage for Cole and Dylan’s future in the entertainment industry. Encouraged by their grandmother, who was an actress and drama teacher, the Sprouse brothers began acting at a young age. This early start was driven by the family's financial needs, turning into a prosperous career that saw the twins quickly rise to stardom.

After enjoying immense success on the Disney Channel with shows like "The Suite Life of Zack and Cody," Cole chose to step back from acting to focus on his education. He enrolled at New York University, where he studied archaeology, geographic information systems, and satellite imaging. Cole graduated in May 2015, sharing the moment with Dylan as part of a playful prank by switching places to collect their diplomas. While studying, Cole worked in an archaeological lab in Brooklyn, which provided him with a unique perspective on life outside the limelight before he returned to acting with the role of Jughead Jones in the hit series "Riverdale."

Career Start: The Suite Life of Zack and Cody

Cole Sprouse's career skyrocketed when he teamed up with his twin brother, Dylan, for the Disney Channel sitcom "The Suite Life of Zack and Cody," which first aired in 2005. The show featured the Sprouse brothers as mischievous twins living in the luxurious Tipton Hotel, with Cole portraying Cody, the more studious and responsible of the duo. The series quickly became a favorite among young audiences, earning high ratings and critical acclaim, which set the stage for the twins to become household names in Disney branding.

The success of "The Suite Life of Zack and Cody" extended beyond the main series, leading to a spin-off titled "The Suite Life on Deck," which aired from 2008 to 2011. The brothers also starred in several related projects, including a TV movie, and made guest appearances on other popular Disney shows. This lucrative period earned them a combined income of approximately $40,000 per episode, not to mention lucrative endorsements and product lines in collaboration with other notable youth stars like Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. The immensely popular series solidified their status as top child actors in Hollywood.

Career Success: Riverdale and Acting Achievements

Cole Sprouse has experienced a remarkable journey in the entertainment industry, transitioning from a successful child actor to a prominent adult star. He first gained widespread recognition alongside his identical twin, Dylan Sprouse, in popular shows like Disney Channel's The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. The series, which aired from 2005 to 2008, showcased the twins' charisma and comedic talent, leading to lucrative opportunities that included merchandise, spin-offs, and a featured film. During this time, they earned a substantial income of approximately $40,000 per episode, sharing their charm with a generation of young viewers.

After a brief hiatus to pursue higher education, Sprouse returned to acting with a bang, landing the role of Jughead Jones in the hit series Riverdale, which premiered in 2017. This darker, reimagined take on the Archie Comics universe allowed Sprouse to delve into a more complex character, and his performance as the insightful outsider quickly resonated with audiences. His portrayal earned him a devoted fan base and critical praise, marking his return to the limelight. Through Riverdale, Cole has successfully navigated the intricacies of adult acting while maintaining the authenticity and depth that his fans have come to admire.

Photography Passion

Cole Sprouse has developed a significant passion for photography, honing his skills as a creative outlet that has served as both a therapeutic escape and a burgeoning career. He has shared that photography became particularly important to him during periods of depression, allowing him to express himself artistically and capture the world around him. His work has been featured in various notable publications like The Sunday Times and L’Uomo Vogue, showcasing his ability to blend technical skill with artistic vision.

In addition to magazine work, Sprouse’s photography often includes high-profile subjects such as models and celebrities, including Kendall Jenner and Sophie Turner. He brings a unique perspective to his subjects, focusing on capturing candid moments that reveal their personalities. Sprouse's photographs have gained considerable attention, illustrating not just his talent behind the lens but also his deep appreciation for the art form.

Personal Life: Dating and Relationships

Cole Sprouse's romantic life has garnered significant attention, particularly due to his relationship with co-star Lili Reinhart on the hit show . Their on-screen chemistry as Jughead and Betty translated into real life, sparking dating rumors shortly after the show's premiere in 2017. The two initially kept their relationship private, but their interactions on social media and public appearances began to hint at a deeper connection. In January 2018, they were spotted together in Hawaii, further fueling speculation about their romance.

As their relationship progressed, the couple was often seen enjoying vacations together, including a romantic getaway in Paris and a summer escape in Mexico. They even attended prestigious events like the Met Gala together in 2018, solidifying their status as a Hollywood couple. However, their relationship faced challenges, including a brief split in July 2019, which they publicly denied. It wasn't until May 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, that reports indicated they were quarantining separately, leading to renewed discussions about their status. This ongoing attention highlights both the public fascination with their love story and the complexities of navigating a relationship in the spotlight.

Net Worth and Earning: Salary Insights

Cole Sprouse, known for his successful career as a child actor and his recent prominence on shows like "Riverdale," has built a substantial net worth over the years. As a child star on Disney Channel's "The Suite Life of Zack and Cody," Sprouse and his twin brother Dylan reportedly earned a combined salary of around $40,000 per episode during the show's run from 2005 to 2008. This lucrative deal helped set the foundation for a prosperous career in television and film.

In addition to his earnings from acting, Sprouse has diversified his income through various avenues, including his work as a photographer and brand ambassador. As of 2023, Cole Sprouse’s estimated net worth is approximately $8 million, largely credited to his ongoing role on "Riverdale," where he continues to earn a significant salary per episode. With his impressive portfolio and a robust social media presence, Sprouse remains a valuable figure in the entertainment industry, ensuring that his earnings continue to grow as he explores new and creative projects.