After modelling for numerous advertisements and companies, John made his film debut with Jism (2003), which earned him a Filmfare Best Debut Award nomination.

This was followed by his first commercial success, Dhoom (2004). He received two Filmfare Award nominations, for his negative roles in Dhoom, and in Zinda (2006).

He was nominated for a Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor for the film Baabul (2006).

Abraham has starred in many critically and commercially successful films including Dostana (2008), New York (2009), Force (2011), Shootout at Wadala (2013), and Madras Cafe (2013).

In 2012, he produced his first film Vicky Donor, which was a critical and commercial success, and earned him a National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.

He then established his own production house, John Abraham Entertainment.

His second movie as a producer was Madras Cafe, which garnered fantastic critical acclaim.

He is the co-owner of the Indian Super League football team NorthEast United FC.

John Abraham was born to a Malayali Nasrani father and a Parsi mother. His father, Abraham John, is an architect from Aluva, Kerala; his mother is Firoza Irani.

John studied at Bombay Scottish School in Mumbai. He got his bachelor's degree in economics from Jai Hind College. John also received an MMS from MET college.