How did a Twilight vampire end up becoming one of Texas’ most relatable burger nerds?

Jackson Rathbone, best known for playing Jasper Hale in The Twilight Saga, has traded Hollywood polish for smashed patties and potato buns. And as a longtime Twilight fan- yes, Jasper was always my favorite- watching this Texas glow-up has been especially fun.

Texas Roots Brought a Twilight Star Back Home

Rathbone is actually a Midland native who returned to Texas after more than a decade in Los Angeles, settling in Austin with his family in 2018. Since then, he’s leaned fully into Texas life while continuing his acting and music career, and documenting one very specific passion along the way: Burgers!

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Rather than calling himself a food critic, Rathbone proudly describes himself as a “burger nerd,” and that casual, honest approach is exactly what makes his posts work.

Austin’s Burger Scene Through a Texas Lens

Most of Rathbone’s burger adventures stay rooted in Austin, where the city’s burger scene ranges from classic dive bars to food trucks and neighborhood gems. His posts focus less on hype and more on what actually matters: the bun, the patty, the balance, and the overall vibe.

You won’t find over-the-top critiques here. Instead, Rathbone highlights what makes each spot feel special- whether it’s nostalgia, simplicity, or a burger that just hits the right way.

While he does try burgers outside of Texas when he travels, Austin clearly serves as home base. Over time, his posts have turned into a low-key love letter to Texas comfort food and the people behind it.

From vampire covens to burger counters, these days, Rathbone’s not chasing immortality, just the next great burger.

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Gallery Credit: Tommy Paradise, Townsquare Media, Canva, Google

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Gallery Credit: Google Maps