Who Plays Alex In 13 Reasons Why Actor Character Details 2

Alex Standall is one of the most complex and evolving characters in the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why. From his early days as a seemingly confident jock to a vulnerable young man grappling with identity, trauma, and mental health, Alex’s journey resonates deeply with viewers. Central to this transformation is the actor who brings him to life: Miles Heizer. This article explores the full scope of Alex’s character, the nuanced performance by Heizer, and how the role impacted both the show’s narrative and its audience.

The Actor Behind Alex: Miles Heizer

Miles Heizer, born on May 16, 1994, in Greenville, Kentucky, began acting at a young age. He gained early recognition for his role as Dustin “Dusty” Dobbs-Sherman on the NBC drama ER, where he appeared from 2005 to 2009. His breakout performance came as Drew Holt in the critically acclaimed series Life Unexpected, which showcased his ability to portray emotionally layered teenagers.

When Heizer joined 13 Reasons Why in 2017, he stepped into a role that would challenge him both dramatically and psychologically. Alex Standall begins Season 1 as a secondary figure—a popular student, dating Jessica Davis, and part of Justin Foley’s inner circle. But as the series progresses, Heizer’s performance reveals deeper dimensions: insecurity, confusion, loyalty, and resilience.

“Alex starts off as someone trying to fit in, but over time, he becomes one of the few characters actively seeking truth and redemption.” — Miles Heizer, in an interview with Teen Vogue

Character Evolution: From Jock to Advocate

Alex’s arc is one of the most significant transformations in the series. Initially perceived as shallow and self-absorbed, he gradually emerges as a symbol of personal growth and emotional courage.

• Season 1: Alex is introduced as Jessica’s boyfriend, often seen in group settings. His jealousy over her friendship with Bryce Walker leads him to create a popularity contest that inadvertently contributes to her assault. Though not malicious, his actions reflect immaturity and peer pressure.
• Season 2: After surviving a suicide attempt (revealed in a mid-season twist), Alex becomes central to the plot. His near-death experience forces introspection. He joins the lawsuit against Liberty High and begins advocating for accountability.
• Season 3: Now working as a police informant to bring down the drug trade at school, Alex shows remarkable bravery. His relationship with Cyrus develops, marking a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ representation on mainstream teen television.
• Season 4: Struggling with PTSD and moral dilemmas, Alex confronts the consequences of his choices. He remains loyal to his friends while facing legal threats and internal conflict, culminating in a powerful courtroom testimony.

Tip: Pay close attention to Alex’s body language across seasons—Heizer uses subtle facial expressions and posture shifts to convey emotional states without dialogue.

Themes Explored Through Alex’s Storyline

Alex’s character serves as a vehicle for several critical themes:

Mental Health Awareness

His suicide attempt and recovery process are portrayed with raw honesty. Unlike other characters whose struggles remain internalized, Alex seeks therapy and openly discusses his depression. This depiction helps normalize conversations around mental illness among young men.

LGBTQ+ Identity

His romantic relationship with Cyrus is handled with care, avoiding stereotypes. It’s not framed as a phase or rebellion, but as a genuine exploration of identity. The show emphasizes consent, communication, and emotional vulnerability in their bond.

Redemption and Accountability

Alex never excuses his past behavior. Instead, he actively works to make amends—supporting Jessica, testifying against perpetrators, and protecting others from harm. His journey underscores that people can change when given space and support.

Season	Key Development	Emotional State
1	Creates harmful list; dates Jessica	Insecure, competitive
2	Survives suicide attempt; joins lawsuit	Vulnerable, reflective
3	Begins relationship with Cyrus; works undercover	Courageous, conflicted
4	Faces legal risks; testifies in court	Determined, burdened

Behind the Performance: How Heizer Brought Authenticity

Miles Heizer didn’t just play Alex—he lived through the character’s pain. In interviews, he has spoken about the emotional toll of filming intense scenes, particularly those involving suicide and trauma.

To prepare for Alex’s suicide attempt scene, Heizer consulted with mental health professionals and worked closely with the show’s sensitivity advisors. He emphasized the importance of showing the aftermath—not just the act itself—but the impact on loved ones and the long road to healing.

Heizer also advocated for authenticity in portraying Alex’s sexuality. Rather than making it a dramatic reveal, the writers and actor chose a slow-burn approach, allowing the relationship with Cyrus to develop naturally. This decision was praised by LGBTQ+ advocacy groups for avoiding sensationalism.

“We didn’t want to tokenize Alex’s queerness. It’s part of him, not his entire story. That’s what makes it real.” — Brian Yorkey, showrunner of *13 Reasons Why*

Real Impact: A Case Study in Viewer Connection

In 2019, a university counseling center in Oregon reported a notable increase in male students seeking help after watching Season 2 of 13 Reasons Why. Among them was 19-year-old Jordan M., who identified strongly with Alex’s struggle.

Jordan shared that seeing a male character cry, admit weakness, and ask for help gave him permission to do the same. “I’d been hiding my anxiety for years,” he said. “Alex made me realize it wasn’t weakness—it was strength.”

This anecdote reflects a broader trend: viewers connecting with Alex not because he’s perfect, but because he’s human. His flaws make his growth believable, and his quiet resilience offers hope.

Actionable Insights for Understanding Complex Characters

Whether you're analyzing storytelling in media or reflecting on personal growth, Alex’s journey offers valuable lessons. Here’s a checklist to apply these insights:

1. Recognize that character development often mirrors real-life progress—nonlinear and challenging.
2. Look beyond initial impressions; people (and characters) can evolve significantly under pressure.
3. Value stories that show mental health recovery as ongoing, not instantaneous.
4. Support narratives that depict LGBTQ+ identities with nuance and dignity.
5. Encourage open dialogue about guilt, forgiveness, and second chances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alex Standall based on a real person?

No, Alex Standall is a fictional character created for the novel Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher and further developed in the Netflix adaptation. However, his experiences reflect real issues faced by many teens, including depression, identity exploration, and systemic injustice in schools.

What happens to Alex at the end of 13 Reasons Why?

In the series finale, Alex survives and continues his recovery. While the show leaves some aspects of his future open-ended, it confirms he remains committed to advocacy and healing. He does not face prison, having cooperated with authorities, and maintains supportive relationships with key characters like Clay and Ani.

Did Miles Heizer win any awards for playing Alex?

While Heizer did not receive major individual awards for the role, the ensemble cast was nominated for two Screen Actors Guild Awards for Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Television Series. Critics widely praised his performance, with The Hollywood Reporter calling him “a quiet standout in a show full of emotional extremes.”

Conclusion: Why Alex Still Matters

Alex Standall may not have been the central figure of 13 Reasons Why, but his presence shaped the show’s moral compass. Through Miles Heizer’s sensitive portrayal, audiences witnessed a rare blend of masculinity, fragility, and courage. He challenged stereotypes, sparked important conversations, and offered a roadmap for redemption.

More than entertainment, Alex’s story serves as a reminder: change is possible. Growth takes time. And asking for help isn’t failure—it’s the first step toward becoming whole.

💬 How did Alex’s journey affect you? Share your thoughts in the comments below—whether you related to his struggles, admired his courage, or learned something new about empathy and recovery.