Ever wondered about the man who made you believe your man could smell like a romantic millionaire jet fighter pilot? Isaiah Mustafa, the charismatic face of Old Spice, isn't just a pitchman; he's a multifaceted artist who has seamlessly transitioned from the football field to the silver screen.

Born Isaiah Amir Mustafa on February 11, 1974, in Portland, Oregon, this American actor and former football wide receiver has captivated audiences with his charm and talent. From his iconic role in the Old Spice commercials to his appearances in popular television series and films, Mustafa's career is a testament to his versatility and dedication. But what exactly is the story behind the man your man could smell like? Let's delve into the life and career of Isaiah Mustafa.

Category	Details
Full Name	Isaiah Amir Mustafa
Date of Birth	February 11, 1974
Place of Birth	Portland, Oregon, USA
Height	6' 3" (1.92 m)
Occupation	Actor, Director, Writer, Former American Football Player
Known For	Old Spice commercials, Shadowhunters, It Chapter Two, Cross
Marital Status	Married to Lisa Mitchell (May 26, 2018 present)
Notable Roles	Old Spice "The Man Your Man Could Smell Like" (2010-present), Luke Garroway in Shadowhunters (2016-2019), Adult Mike Hanlon in It Chapter Two (2019), John Sampson in Cross (2024)
Former Football Career	NFL practice squad wide receiver
Reference	IMDb

Mustafa's journey began in Portland, where he spent his early years. The family later moved to California when he was just five years old. His athletic prowess quickly became evident, leading him to pursue a career in football. Before captivating audiences with his acting skills, Mustafa was a formidable athlete, playing as a wide receiver. He played for Arizona State and several NFL teams, honing his skills and building a foundation of discipline and determination that would later serve him well in his acting career.

The shift from the gridiron to the spotlight wasn't immediate. After his football career, Mustafa found himself navigating the competitive world of acting. Like many aspiring actors, he faced early challenges, but his persistence paid off. His breakout role, and arguably his most iconic, came in February 2010 with the Old Spice commercials.

The "The Man Your Man Could Smell Like" campaign, created by the ad agency Wieden+Kennedy, was a cultural phenomenon. Mustafa's charismatic delivery and the commercials' witty writing struck a chord with audiences. The campaign's success propelled him into the mainstream, making him a household name. The ads were not just about selling body wash; they were about selling a fantasy, a lifestyle, and a sense of aspirational masculinity.

The success of the Old Spice campaign opened doors for Mustafa, leading to a diverse range of acting opportunities. He has appeared in films like "It Chapter Two" (2019), where he portrayed the adult Mike Hanlon, showcasing his dramatic acting abilities. He also took on the role of Luke Garroway in the Freeform fantasy series "Shadowhunters," further demonstrating his versatility and ability to connect with different audiences. His filmography also includes "Boy Kills World" (2023) and the recent "Cross" (2024), where he plays John Sampson, a detective, displaying his capability to play serious roles.

Mustafa's career trajectory demonstrates his dedication to his craft. His performances in "Shadowhunters" solidified his presence in the world of television. In "It Chapter Two," he proved his ability to handle complex and emotionally demanding roles, proving to critics and audiences that he was more than just a charming pitchman.

Beyond acting, Mustafa has also delved into directing and writing, showcasing his multifaceted creativity. He has a passion for photography, sharing his work on social media, further expanding his creative outlets. He continues to evolve as an artist, taking on new challenges and exploring different facets of the entertainment industry.

His personal life is equally fulfilling. He married Lisa Mitchell, a publicist for Warner Brothers, in a ceremony held at Camp Lucy in Austin, Texas, on May 26, 2018, a testament to his ability to cultivate meaningful relationships and a fulfilling personal life alongside his professional achievements.

The NAACCP Image Awards nominee reception in 2025 saw Mustafa as a handsome host, alongside co-stars from his latest project, "Cross," further solidifying his position in the entertainment industry. From his early days as a football player to his current status as a respected actor, director, and writer, Isaiah Mustafa's career is an inspiration for all.

Recently, he has starred as John Sampson in the Prime Video series "Cross," based on the Alex Cross novels by James Patterson. This role marks another significant step in his career, offering him a chance to portray a complex character in a high-profile project. His involvement in "Cross" proves how far Mustafa has come, demonstrating his growth and evolution as an actor.

Mustafa has also worked on projects like "Madea's Big Happy Family," playing Calvin, showcasing his ability to take on different roles and work within various genres. His work in "Rags," the 2012 Nickelodeon TV movie, demonstrates his ability to appeal to a younger audience as well.

Even beyond the screen, Mustafas presence continues to be felt. He has appeared in nostalgic commercials, like the Instacart commercial, reminding audiences of his iconic status. He also teamed up with fellow Old Spice adman Terry Crews, further demonstrating the impact and legacy of these famous commercials.

The story of Isaiah Mustafa is a story of transformation and continuous growth. From the football field to the world of acting, from being the face of Old Spice to starring in major television series and films, Mustafa's career is a vibrant example of what can be achieved with talent, determination, and adaptability. With each new role, each project, and each endeavor, he continues to prove that he is much more than just the man your man could smell like. He is a true artist, a talented performer, and a testament to the power of reinvention.

As he continues to evolve and embrace new challenges, it is clear that Isaiah Mustafa's journey is far from over. His fans can eagerly anticipate what he will accomplish in the future, knowing that he will undoubtedly bring his unique blend of charm, talent, and dedication to every project he undertakes.