Born and raised in Hemet, California, Lafferty began work as an extra at the tender age of 7 after his mother encouraged him and his younger brother to get involved in the entertainment industry as a way to have fun. Enjoying the times they had on the movie set, he stuck with it and by age 10 was awarded his first speaking part. Commercials followed soon after.

Lafferty's first series regular role was on the sitcom Emeril, where he played Emeril's son. He followed that up with a turn in the television movie A Season on the Brink opposite Brian Dennehy. Lafferty played Steve Alford, the star player of the Indiana University basketball team, The Hoosiers. He has also made guest appearances on the series Once and Again, Boston Public and Get Real.

Lafferty had the starring role in the independent feature Boys on the Run.

Currently living in Hemet with his parents and brother, Lafferty is an avid basketball fan and, similar to his character, a star player. He played on his varsity team in high school and was awarded the MVP award. He also enjoys trips to the beach and playing football with his friends.