Dylan and Cole Sprouse have always understood that teamwork often makes the dream work. The twin brothers, who first captured audiences over two decades ago with their unforgettable role as Adam Sandler’s cheeky and endearing adopted son in Big Daddy, are no longer those charming little boys—they’ve grown into distinct individuals, each with their own life and career.
Born in 1992, the identical twins started their Hollywood journey when they were just eight months old, taking turns in commercials and small acting roles. By the time they were toddlers, their talent and charisma had already earned them steady work in the industry. Like Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Dylan and Cole benefitted from child labor laws that encouraged studios to cast twins for roles requiring young performers.
Their first major breakthrough came with the sitcom Grace Under Fire, where they shared the role of Patrick Kelly, Grace Kelly’s son, from 1993 to 1998. Audiences watched as the boys transformed from cuddly babies into confident six-year-olds, delivering heartwarming performances that made them household names.
But their true star power emerged in 1999, when they played Sandler’s adopted son in the comedy Big Daddy. The twins became scene-stealers with their impeccable comedic timing and adorable one-liners. Reflecting on his time with Sandler in an interview with People in 2022, Cole said, “I admire him immensely. He’s mastered balancing creativity with business—a real hallmark of a professional. On top of that, he always lifts up those around him, which is rare and inspiring.”
Though the two often acted as a pair, Cole briefly stepped into the spotlight on his own from 2000 to 2002, portraying Ben, Ross Geller’s son, on Friends. Recalling his experience on set, Cole revealed that his favorite episode was “The One with the Holiday Armadillo,” admitting he was captivated by the costumes and special effects. However, what really stood out to him was his massive crush on co-star Jennifer Aniston. “Like everyone else in the world, I fell in love with her,” he confessed. “I was so intimidated that I forgot my lines when she sat beside me on the couch.”
The twins reunited on-screen in 2002 for the movie Master of Disguise, where they shared the role of a young Pistachio Disguisey. Despite their rising fame, Dylan and Cole maintained a surprising level of normalcy by prioritizing their education. Both enrolled at New York University—Dylan delved into video game design, while Cole explored humanities and archaeology.
Fast forward to today, the brothers are charting very different paths in life. Cole has become widely known for his role as Jughead Jones in Riverdale, the popular dark adaptation of the Archie Comics universe, a role he’s held since 2017. On the personal front, he’s been dating French-Canadian model Ari Fournier for nearly two years.
Dylan, on the other hand, has embraced a variety of ventures. He lends his voice to video game characters and co-founded All-Wise Meadery, a boutique brewery based in Brooklyn, New York. He’s also engaged to supermodel Barbara Palvin, a familiar face in Sports Illustrated.
While their lives and careers may have diverged, Dylan and Cole remain a testament to the power of shared history and talent. From their early days as Hollywood’s favorite twins to the individuals they’ve become, the Sprouse brothers continue to leave their mark on both the entertainment world and beyond.