If you grew up in the mid-to-late 2000s, you likely had a crush on a young Josh Hutcherson. He was a familiar face in early family films like Zathura, Bridge to Terabithia, and Journey to the Center of the Earth, before gaining even more fame with The Hunger Games series.
Now 33, Hutcherson stars in the 2025 HBO comedy I Love LA, where he plays the boyfriend of the main character, Maia. Maia is portrayed by Rachel Sennott, who also created and stars in the show, following her role in the 2023 film Bottoms.
When asked by Bustle if he was ready to reclaim his internet boyfriend title, Hutcherson laughed and admitted he didn’t know he had one.
"I had no idea I ever had such a title."
The "internet boyfriend" nickname refers to celebrities adored and fantasized over widely online. Recent examples include Pedro Pascal, Jeremy Allen White from The Bear, Jonathan Bailey from Bridgerton, and many of Daisy Edgar Jones’ former co-stars.
During the interview, Hutcherson was sitting next to his I Love LA co-star Leighton Meester, and their playful exchange added a lighthearted feel to the conversation.
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Author’s summary: Josh Hutcherson reflects with humor on his unexpected status as an internet favorite while starring in HBO’s new comedy I Love LA.