From the gritty streets of Oceanside in Animal Kingdom to the haunting atmosphere of modern horror classics, Jake Weary has carved out a unique space in Hollywood. Born into an acting dynasty as the son of daytime legend Kim Zimmer, Weary has moved far beyond the “nepo baby” label, proving his range across intense dramas, cult horror films, and major television procedurals.
If you are looking for a comprehensive breakdown of Jake Weary movies and tv shows, this guide covers his breakout roles, his most iconic characters, and where you can see him next.
The Breakout: From Daytime Soaps to Animal Kingdom
Jake Weary’s career began where many greats do: in the world of daytime television. However, his transition into prestige cable drama marked a turning point that changed his career trajectory forever.
Deran Cody in Animal Kingdom (2016–2022)
While he had many roles before it, most fans recognize Weary as Deran Cody from the hit TNT series Animal Kingdom. Playing the youngest brother in a criminal family led by a ruthless matriarch (played by Ellen Barkin), Weary delivered a nuanced performance.
His portrayal of Deran was lauded for its complexity—balancing the character’s “tough guy” exterior with a deeply emotional struggle regarding his sexuality and his desire for independence from the Cody family business. This role lasted six seasons and remains his most significant TV contribution to date.
Early Career: As the World Turns
Before he was a gritty criminal, Weary played Luke Snyder on As the World Turns. Though he eventually left the role to focus on school, his time on the soap opera established him as a talented young actor capable of handling long-running, character-driven narratives.
Notable Movie Roles: Horror and Beyond
Jake Weary has a penchant for choosing atmospheric and “indie-fied” projects. He has become a staple in the horror and thriller genres, often playing characters that are pivotal to the plot’s mystery.
It Follows (2014)
In the critically acclaimed horror film It Follows, Weary played Hugh (Jeff). His character is responsible for passing the supernatural “curse” to the protagonist, played by Maika Monroe. The film is now considered a modern masterpiece of the genre, and Weary’s performance was essential in setting the film’s eerie, paranoid tone.
It Chapter Two (2019)
Continuing his streak in high-profile horror, Weary appeared in the sequel to Stephen King’s IT. He played John “Webby” Garton, a character involved in one of the film’s most intense and controversial opening scenes. Though his screen time was brief, it left a lasting impact on the audience.
How to Blow Up a Pipeline (2022)
In a shift toward eco-thriller territory, Weary starred in How to Blow Up a Pipeline. This film showcased his ability to work within an ensemble cast in a high-stakes, politically charged narrative.
Jake Weary Movies and TV Shows: A Career Overview
To help you track his extensive filmography, here is a breakdown of his most notable projects across film and television.
| Year | Title | Role | Format |
| 2005 | As the World Turns | Luke Snyder | TV Series |
| 2010 | Fred: The Movie | Kevin | Movie |
| 2014 | It Follows | Hugh / Jeff | Movie |
| 2014 | Chicago Fire | Vince Keeler | TV Series |
| 2014 | Pretty Little Liars | Cyrus Petrillo | TV Series |
| 2016–2022 | Animal Kingdom | Deran Cody | TV Series |
| 2019 | It Chapter Two | John “Webby” Garton | Movie |
| 2022 | How to Blow Up a Pipeline | Logan | Movie |
| 2024 | Bleeding Love | Kip | Movie |
| 2025 | The Walking Dead: Dead City | TBD | TV Series |
Recent Projects and Future Outlook
As of 2026, Jake Weary is continuing to expand his footprint in the streaming world. One of his most anticipated recent moves was joining the expanded universe of The Walking Dead.
The Walking Dead: Dead City
Weary joined the cast of The Walking Dead: Dead City, starring alongside Lauren Cohan and Jeffrey Dean Morgan. This move into one of the biggest franchises in television history suggests that Weary is looking to balance his indie roots with major “blockbuster” television roles.
The Waterfront
Another project keeping him busy is The Waterfront, a drama series that dives into the complexities of a family-run fishery in North Carolina. It’s a return to the “family drama” roots that made him a star in Animal Kingdom, but with a fresh, coastal setting.
Why Fans Love Jake Weary’s Style
What sets Jake Weary apart from other actors of his generation is his intensity. He rarely plays the “standard” leading man; instead, he gravitates toward roles that are:
- Morally Grey: Characters like Deran Cody aren’t traditional heroes.
- Emotionally Layered: He excels at portraying internal conflict.
- Physically Committed: Whether it’s surfing for a role or performing stunts, he brings a high level of physical authenticity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Jake Weary related to Kim Zimmer?
Yes, Jake Weary is the son of the famous daytime Emmy-winning actress Kim Zimmer, best known for her role as Reva Shayne on Guiding Light. His father, A.C. Weary, is also an actor and director.
2. Does Jake Weary actually surf?
While his character Deran Cody in Animal Kingdom is a pro surfer, Jake Weary had to do significant training for the role. He has mentioned in interviews that while he wasn’t a professional beforehand, the show required the cast to be very comfortable in the water.
3. What was Jake Weary’s role in Pretty Little Liars?
Jake Weary played Cyrus Petrillo in Pretty Little Liars. He was a recurring character linked to Alison DiLaurentis’s mysterious past, specifically as the man she claimed kidnapped her.
4. Is Jake Weary also a musician?
Yes! Beyond acting, Jake is a talented musician. He has released music under the name Agave, showcasing a sound that is often described as alternative or indie-rock.
5. Where can I watch Jake Weary’s most famous show, Animal Kingdom?
As of now, Animal Kingdom is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video (depending on your region) and can be purchased on Apple TV or Vudu.
Final Thoughts
Whether you first discovered him through the terrifying tension of It Follows or the high-stakes robberies of Animal Kingdom, there is no denying that Jake Weary is one of the most consistent actors working today. His ability to jump between indie horror and mainstream TV procedurals makes him a versatile talent to watch.
With his recent entry into The Walking Dead universe and upcoming dramatic series like The Waterfront, the list of Jake Weary movies and tv shows is only going to get more impressive. If you haven’t yet explored his filmography, now is the perfect time to start with his standout performance as Deran Cody.
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