Bethany Joy Lenz

Bethany Joy Lenz is an American actress, singer, and songwriter who is best known for her iconic portrayal of Haley James Scott on The WB/CW drama series One Tree Hill, which ran from 2003 to 2012. Born on April 2, 1981, in Hollywood, Florida, Lenz showed artistic talent from a young age, beginning her career as a child performer in community theater and eventually moving to New York and Los Angeles to pursue professional opportunities.

Lenz first gained television experience with a recurring role on the soap opera Guiding Light, where she played the character Michelle Bauer Santos from 1998 to 2000. Her time on daytime television provided valuable training and led to her breakout role on One Tree Hill, where she starred for all nine seasons of the series. Her character’s journey, including a memorable music career within the show, allowed Lenz to showcase both her acting and singing abilities, and she contributed original songs to the show’s soundtrack.

Beyond One Tree Hill, Lenz has maintained a steady career in television and film, appearing in Hallmark Channel movies and other projects. She has also pursued music independently, releasing albums and performing live. In 2024, her memoir ‘Dinner Party’ garnered significant attention, in which she candidly discussed her experience in a cult-like group during the height of her One Tree Hill fame. The book became a bestseller and brought renewed public interest in her story.

As of 2026, Bethany Joy Lenz has an estimated net worth of $4 million, accumulated over more than two decades in the entertainment industry. Her diversified career spanning acting, music, writing, and public speaking has provided multiple income streams and a devoted fanbase that continues to support her work.