Peyton Hillis, once celebrated for his power runs in the NFL, has remained in the public eye well beyond his football days. While many remember him for his breakout season with the Cleveland Browns and his appearance on the Madden NFL 12 cover, fans are equally curious about his personal life. From his former marriage to Amanda Hillis to his current relationship with actress Angela Cole, Hillis’ love life has gone through notable transitions.
Born on January 21, 1986, Peyton Hillis is 38 years old as of 2024. The Arkansas native had a professional football career spanning from 2008 to 2014, playing for teams such as the Denver Broncos, Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and New York Giants. His NFL career saw him rack up 2,832 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns. He officially retired in 2015 due to injury concerns. Post-retirement, his focus shifted toward personal growth, family, and occasional acting appearances.
Marriage to Amanda Hillis: A College Romance
Before fame found him, Peyton met Amanda Brown at the University of Arkansas. Amanda, who pursued a degree in music, and Peyton, then rising in the college football ranks, formed a strong bond. Their relationship matured through college, leading to marriage in October 2011. The couple had two children together: a son named Orry and a daughter named Olivia.
However, the marriage faced strain during Peyton’s NFL years. In multiple interviews, Hillis admitted the timing of their marriage coincided with a challenging phase in his career. Injuries, team changes, and personal pressure took a toll on their relationship. After nearly a decade together, the two finalized their divorce in 2020.
Despite the separation, Peyton and Amanda committed to co-parenting their two children. He often shares glimpses of fatherhood, especially moments with his son Orry, like playing video games or enjoying the outdoors. Peyton has emphasized how parenting has remained a top priority in his life.
A New Chapter With Angela Cole
After his divorce, Peyton Hillis entered a new relationship with Angela Cole, an actress known for her roles in indie films such as Fighting the Sky and Night of the Tommyknockers. Their love story began on the set of the 2021 horror film The Hunting, where Hillis played a werewolf. Working closely on the film sparked a connection, and their friendship turned into romance after production wrapped.
Angela Cole confirmed their relationship publicly on Instagram in July 2022, sharing photos and heartfelt captions about their bond. Since then, the couple has appeared together at several film and charity events, drawing attention for their chemistry and shared creative interests.
Angela is not only an actress but also a writer and choreographer. With a background in dancing and creative arts, she complements Hillis’ more athletic profile. Their relationship reflects a strong mutual respect—both have publicly supported each other’s pursuits and personal growth.
Family and Values
While Angela Cole does not have children from previous relationships, she is often seen engaging warmly with Peyton’s kids. According to sources close to the couple, Angela shares a nurturing bond with Orry and Olivia and respects Peyton’s deep commitment to fatherhood.
Peyton continues to live a relatively low-profile life, focusing on health, family, and occasional media work. The couple splits time between Arkansas and Florida, keeping close to both family and work commitments.
Heroic Act in 2023
In January 2023, Hillis made headlines for a heroic act that captured national attention. While on a beach in Florida, Peyton rescued his two children from drowning in a rip current. The incident left him critically injured, requiring hospitalization and a long recovery.
Hillis, however, rejected the hero label, stating that he simply did what any loving parent would do. This event further highlighted his devotion to family and earned widespread admiration from fans and former teammates alike.
Peyton Hillis’ Net Worth and Life Today
As of 2024, Peyton Hillis’ estimated net worth stands between $5 million and $8 million. His income includes NFL earnings, endorsements during his playing days, brief ventures in film and media, and investments made post-retirement.
Angela Cole, while not as financially established as Hillis, has been building her portfolio with acting and creative writing projects. Their combined efforts reflect a dynamic partnership focused on both personal and professional growth.
Despite stepping away from football, Hillis occasionally makes guest appearances in sports commentary and public speaking, especially focusing on mental health, parenting, and post-career transitions for athletes.
Final Thoughts
Peyton Hillis’ life off the field is just as compelling as his football career. From his college romance with Amanda Hillis to his challenging years in the NFL and his current relationship with Angela Cole, his story is filled with lessons on resilience, love, and transformation.
While his first marriage ended, his dedication to his children has never wavered. Today, alongside Angela, he’s writing a new chapter that blends love, creativity, and a quieter but fulfilling post-NFL life. Whether he’s acting in indie films or spending time with his family, Peyton Hillis remains a figure of strength, character, and compassion.