Chad Michael Murray was born in Buffalo, New York. Abandoned at a young age by his mother, Chad grew up before his years as he had to take up the responsibility of bring up his younger siblings along with his father. Chad's talent for acting was recognized by his father who continuously encouraged him to polish his skills and before Chad was five years old, he found a willing audience for whom he performed skits and sang songs that he himself had composed. His, was a large family that included four brothers and a sister. At the age of fifteen, Chad was injured in a high school football injury that that in a way changed his career goals and he shifted his focus from football to modeling.
Two years down the line, Chad was able to win a scholarship from large modeling House in hometown Buffalo, and was given the opportunity to attend a modeling conference in Orlando. It was there that he met his dream job, when a big time agent from Los Angles spotted this young bundle of raw talent, chiseled looks, and convinced Chad to become a professional actor.

In 1999, Chad headed for Hollywood determined to break into the big time scene, though for the initial years he was forced to support himself through modeling. However, clients were numerous and he lent his face to such prestigious brands as Tommy Hilfiger, Gucci and several others as he struggled for a role that would get him noticed. H made the best of his opportunities and appeared in bit-roles in several television serials, including an episode of the serial "Diagnosis Murder". Finally, lady luck smiled at him and he received the opportunity that he had been so desperately waiting. A call he'd been hoping for. He was given a part in WB's "Gilmore Girls" (2000). They thought that Chad was perfect for the role and he soon proved the producers how right they were in their decision.

Chad is a role model for kids and is actively involved in numerous charities for kids and teens all during his free time. He married Sophia Bush on the 16th of April 2005.

Sophia later filed for Divorce from Chad just five months after the nuptials and the divorce was finalized in 2006. Chad is currently engaged to an extra that he met on the set of One Tree Hill after his split with Bush. His new fiancee is 17 year old Kenzie Dalton. The two have been engaged for quite some time with no date in the near future, but Murray always says, "It can happen at any moment."