In the film Celebrity , Adrian Grenier appeared in a small role as one of Leonardo DiCaprio's groupies. In real life however, he is intent on forging a stellar career of his own. He's already racked up some much needed credibility in independent films, and seems ready to give mainstream teen idol status a shot.

Grenier was born in 1976 and grew up in Brooklyn, New York. Interested in the arts at a young age, he was encouraged in his endeavors by his parents, who dolled out money for piano lessons (Adrian also plays the French Horn). Grenier was a student at LaGuardia High School and later attended Bard College, where he studied drama. While still in school, he got some practice in local theater productions.

With his roguish good looks and dark locks, Adrian seemed a likely candidate for Tiger Beat pin-up boy status. But rather than pursue that angle, Grenier auditioned for and landed roles in a string of independent films. The Adventures of Sebastian Cole, in which he had the lead role, was a coming of age tale set in a very offbeat family. The film earned some critical praise, particularly in regards to Adrian's performance. Hurricane Streets also got positive reviews; critics were impressed by the young inexperienced cast of the gritty crime film.

Although his career is still only a few years old, Grenier seems to have the talent to keep going. His most recent film, Drive Me Crazy offered him his most exposure yet. Granted, compared to his previous efforts, the fluffy teen-makeover film is nothing to be marveled at, but what Adrian needs right now is exposure.

Drive Me Crazy, starring Sabrina the Teenage Witch's Melissa Joan Hart and powered by a soundtrack by pop stars like Britney Spears and The Backstreet Boys, will most likely offer Grenier just the mainstream exposure he needs.

Credit: allperson.com