From Rival Roles to Romantic Leads, the Canadian Star Has Found His Sweet Spot

Whether he’s wearing scrubs in Code Black, riding motorcycles and breaking hearts in Virgin River, or sweeping someone off their feet in a Hallmark movie, Ben Hollingsworth has mastered the art of being irresistibly intense. The Canadian-born actor has carved out a quietly impressive career built on steady growth, layered characters, and a dash of romantic charm.

The Canadian Beginning

Born September 7, 1984, in Brockville, Ontario, Hollingsworth studied at the prestigious National Theatre School of Canada, graduating in 2006. His classical training helped him land early roles on Canadian TV hits like Degrassi: The Next Generation and Heartland, where he cut his teeth playing youthful, emotionally complex characters.

But Hollingsworth’s big break came not long after.

Early Breakouts: The Beautiful Life and Suits

After brief roles on CSI: Miami and Once Upon a Time, Hollingsworth nabbed a lead in The Beautiful Life (2009), a high-gloss fashion industry drama alongside Mischa Barton. Though short-lived, it helped him land meatier roles, including the conniving Kyle Durant on Suits, where he went toe-to-toe with Patrick J. Adams’ Mike Ross.

It was clear early on: Hollingsworth could play charming—and dangerous—very well.

Becoming Dr. Mario Savetti in Code Black

Between 2015 and 2018, Hollingsworth had a starring role on the CBS medical drama Code Black, portraying Dr. Mario Savetti, a brash but brilliant ER resident with a chip on his shoulder. The role earned him a Golden Maple Award nomination and cemented his status as a U.S. TV mainstay.

His intense, emotionally raw performance showcased his range and endeared him to fans—and casting directors alike.

Virgin River’s Dan Brady: Bad Boy, Big Heart

Since 2019, Hollingsworth has starred in Netflix’s Virgin River as Dan Brady, a troubled former Marine who starts out as a local misfit but gradually evolves into a more nuanced, sympathetic character. With each season, Brady’s redemption arc has deepened—and so has Hollingsworth’s fanbase.

He’s now a series regular, with many calling his performance one of the show’s most quietly compelling.

A New Hallmark Hero

In recent years, Hollingsworth has found a second home on Hallmark Channel, starring in a string of romantic titles including:

• A Godwink Christmas: Meant for Love (2019)

• Love Under the Olive Tree (2020)

• A Splash of Love (2022)

• Romance in Style (2022)

His warm presence and rugged charm have made him one of Hallmark’s most promising male leads.

Did You Know?

• He once dated actress Nina Dobrev, and the two were roommates before they became a couple.

• He’s a classically trained stage actor, despite his modern TV résumé.

• He’s married to lingerie designer Nila Myers, with whom he has three children.

• He was nominated for a Golden Maple Award in 2016 for Code Black.

• He’s one of the few Virgin River cast members who have crossed over into Hallmark stardom.

Personal Life: Family Man First

Offscreen, Hollingsworth leads a grounded life. He married Nila Myers in 2012, and they now share three children together. Between filming, he’s a dedicated dad, often sharing glimpses of his family life and outdoor adventures on social media.

What’s Next?

With Virgin River continuing to flourish on Netflix, and more Hallmark titles likely on the horizon, Ben Hollingsworth is proof that slow-and-steady careers often deliver the deepest rewards. He’s an actor who has stayed true to his craft, embraced diverse roles, and proven that there’s real power in being both rugged and real.