David Charvet became a global sensation in the 1990s, captivating audiences with his striking looks and charisma as Matt Brody on the hit series Baywatch.
But unlike many of his Hollywood peers, Charvet chose to step away from the spotlight to pursue a more grounded, purpose-driven life. From actor and singer to father and builder, his journey is one of reinvention, personal growth, and staying true to what matters most.
Early life
David Franck Charvet was born on May 15, 1972, in Lyon, France, to Christiane Charvet Haddad and businessman Paul Guez, the founder of the Sasson jeans brand.
Raised in a Jewish household, Charvet moved to the United States after winning a green card through the Morrison visa lottery in the early 1990s.
Acting Career
Charvet’s breakthrough came in 1992 when he was cast as lifeguard Matt Brody on the popular television series Baywatch. He remained with the show for three seasons until 1995, becoming a recognizable face in households worldwide.
Following his tenure on Baywatch, Charvet joined the cast of Melrose Place in 1996, portraying the character Craig Field until 1998. During this period, he also appeared in television films such as Seduced and Betrayed (1995) and Angel Flight Down (1996).
Transition to Music
In 1999, Charvet shifted his focus from acting to pursue a music career. He signed a five-album contract with Universal Music Group France and released three pop-rock albums: David Charvet (1997), Leap of Faith (2002), and Se laisser quelque chose (2004).
His debut single, “Should I Leave,” achieved significant success, reaching number three in France and charting in Belgium and Sweden. Over his music career, Charvet sold over 2.5 million albums.
Personal Life and Shift Away from Hollywood
Charvet married television personality Brooke Burke on August 12, 2011. The couple has two children together: daughter Heaven Rain (born 2007) and son Shaya Braven (born 2008). In April 2018, after seven years of marriage, they announced their separation, finalizing their divorce in March 2020.
Prioritizing fatherhood, Charvet made a conscious decision to step away from the entertainment industry to focus on raising his children. He expressed a desire to be present in their daily lives, stating, “I wanted to stay home and I wanted to be a good dad. I wanted to be there for my children every single day.”
Entrepreneurial Pursuits
Charvet’s transition from Hollywood led him to the field of home development. In 2006, while overseeing the construction of his own home in Malibu, he discovered a passion for building and design.
This experience inspired him to co-found The Jones Builders Group, a residential contracting company specializing in high-end homes in the Los Angeles area. The company reportedly builds between 10 and 14 houses annually.
