AJ, the thoughtful and artistic character from the beloved 1995 film Empire Records, was portrayed by actor Johnny Whitworth. While the film leaves the character's long-term future somewhat open-ended beyond the climactic day at the record store, the actor himself has continued to have a prominent career in film and television.
The Character AJ's Fate in Empire Records
In Empire Records, AJ is known for his unrequited love for Corey Mason (played by Liv Tyler). Throughout the movie, he grapples with expressing his feelings, ultimately confessing his affection and plans to attend art school. By the film's conclusion, while the immediate romantic resolution he hoped for doesn't fully materialize, AJ and Corey remain close friends, and his path towards pursuing his artistic dreams is established. The movie focuses on the events of a single pivotal day, and the specific "what happened next" for AJ beyond that period is left to the audience's imagination.
Johnny Whitworth's Career After Empire Records
Following his role as AJ, Johnny Whitworth continued to build a substantial acting career, scoring various roles across both film and television. His work includes a mix of recurring television appearances and film projects, showcasing his versatility.
Here are some notable aspects of Johnny Whitworth's career after Empire Records:
- Recurring Television Roles: Whitworth became a familiar face on television with significant recurring roles in popular series. These include:
- The CW's The 100: He appeared in the post-apocalyptic drama, adding to its compelling narrative.
- NBC's Blindspot: Whitworth took on another recurring role in this crime drama, further expanding his television presence.
- CSI: Miami: Notably, he reunited with his Empire Records co-star, Rory Cochrane (who played Lucas in Empire Records), on the set of CSI: Miami. This reunion provided a nostalgic connection for fans of the 90s cult classic.
- Other Film and TV Appearances: Beyond these major recurring roles, Whitworth has appeared in numerous other projects, solidifying his standing as a working actor in Hollywood. His diverse filmography includes roles in films like Limitless (2011) and Gamer (2009), as well as various other television guest spots and independent projects.
Johnny Whitworth's career trajectory post-Empire Records demonstrates his enduring presence in the entertainment industry, taking on memorable roles that span different genres and formats.
For more information on Johnny Whitworth's full filmography, you can visit his IMDb page.
