Remember Rowley Jefferson from Diary of a Wimpy Kid? Fans certainly do – but they can hardly believe what the former child star looks like today.
Robert Capron, who won over audiences as Greg Heffley's lovable best friend in the hugely successful film franchise, celebrated his 28th birthday this week, prompting an outpouring of admiration online over his dramatic transformation.
The actor shared a series of relaxed photos on Instagram, showing himself enjoying summer days outdoors, visiting a zoo and posing thoughtfully in a casual grey sweatshirt.
© InstagramHis tousled hair, defined jawline and rugged stubble were a far cry from the fresh-faced middle schooler millions of fans remember from the beloved films.
Fans can't believe the transformation
The birthday snaps quickly made the rounds on social media, where fans were stunned by Robert's striking glow-up. "Dang, he went through a glow-up," one fan wrote on X.
Another added: "Damn, Rowley grew up handsome. Good for him." Many admitted they barely recognised the former child actor, whose appearance has changed dramatically since he first appeared on screen over 15 years ago.
© InstagramFrom Rowley to internet legend
Robert shot to fame playing Rowley Jefferson opposite Zachary Gordon's Greg Heffley in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid films, based on Jeff Kinney's bestselling book series.
The pair starred together in Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2010), Rodrick Rules (2011), Dog Days (2012) and later The Long Haul (2017).
While the films remain fan favourites, Robert unexpectedly found a second wave of fame years later thanks to one unforgettable scene.
© Getty ImagesA clip showing Rowley enthusiastically waving at Greg before awkwardly looking down after noticing his friend's stained trousers became an internet sensation.
The moment exploded across TikTok, X and iFunny in 2023, turning Robert into one of the internet's most recognisable reaction GIFs.
Life after Hollywood
Although Robert has stepped away from the spotlight in recent years, he has hardly slowed down.
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, he made his film debut in Bride Wars before landing small roles in Hachi: A Dog's Story and Disney's The Sorcerer's Apprentice.
© MediaNews Group via Getty ImagesAway from acting, Robert graduated from Brown University in 2020 after also studying at Fordham University's London Dramatic Academy Program.
More recently, he has focused on writing, co-writing several short films including Vial, Vigor and 15 to Sunrise.
Fans won't have to wait too much longer to see him back on screen, however. Robert is set to return to acting in the upcoming comedy Growing Up Gorman, which is currently in pre-production.
