Students in the USC Village got a surprise of star power Monday when actor and entrepreneur Ian Somerhalder stopped by Sunlife Organics to promote his new drink in collaboration with his brand, The Absorption Company.
“I was on Trousdale, and my friend sent me a text of a picture of Ian Somerhalder. And I was like, ‘Oh my gosh, I love ‘Vampire Diaries.’ Like, I gotta get over there,’” said Giana Goncalves, a sophomore studying political science.
Goncalves was just one of many students at the event who were starstruck by Somerhalder, primarily known for his role as Damon Salvatore on “The Vampire Diaries.” Somerhalder is a longtime wellness advocate, previously partnering with health platform Joi + Blokes.
Cecilia Belle was one of the few lucky students who got the opportunity to meet and take a photo with Somerhalder.
“There was a line to actually meet him and take pictures. I think at first, it was kind of chaotic, since I think people were asking for videos [and] autographs. They were spending a lot of time there,” said Belle, a sophomore majoring in business administration. “By the time it was my turn, he was like, ‘Hi, what’s your name?’ I gave him a hug. He asked, ‘What’s your major?’ Then I took a picture with him,” she said.
Growing up, Belle was a fan of Somerhalder and “The Vampire Diaries.”
“As soon as I heard that he was coming, I was like, I absolutely have to go,” said Belle.
Nathan Meadow, one of the co-founders of The Absorption Company, said that their mission began with a genetic mutation both Ian and his wife have.
“Ian and his wife both have a genetic mutation called MTHFR, which doesn’t allow them to absorb certain nutrients, and it caused them to be very passionate about absorption and wellness,” said Meadow.
Working alongside scientists and pharmacologists, Ian, his wife, Nikki, and their company developed a supplement that allows for better nutrient absorption.
“We worked with top researchers, PhDs, Ivy League doctors, to develop technology that allows you to absorb more of your supplements, which is why we called it The Absorption Company,” said Meadow.
This marks the second collaboration between The Absorption Company and Sunlife Organics, a relaunch of a previous smoothie from April.
“The turnout has been absolutely incredible. We didn’t really expect it, and so it’s just been amazing,” said Meadow.