1. Susan Olsen – From Cindy Brady to Animal Advocate
If you grew up watching The Brady Bunch, you probably remember Cindy Brady, the adorable youngest sister with her signature pigtails and lisp. Susan Olsen played that role, charming audiences for five seasons. But after The Brady Bunch ended, Susan found that Hollywood wasn’t all sunshine and smiles. Unlike some of her co-stars, she didn’t transition easily into adult roles. The industry had typecast her as Cindy, making it hard for her to find work outside of the Brady household. After years of struggling to stay in the business, she decided to step away and forge a different path.
So where did she go? While she never completely left the entertainment world—dabbling in radio and occasional Brady reunions—Susan found a new passion: animal rights. She became an outspoken advocate for pet adoption and even worked as a graphic designer. She also revealed the darker side of being a child star, opening up about the pressures, financial struggles, and even exploitation that young actors face. While she may not be the Cindy Brady we once knew, Susan Olsen carved out a life for herself beyond Hollywood’s flashing lights.
2. Mason Reese – The Commercial King Who Chose a Different Spotlight
Mason Reese was everywhere in the ’70s, even if you didn’t know his name. The cherubic, red-haired kid was the face of some of the most iconic commercials of the era, including spots for Underwood Deviled Ham and Dunkin’ Donuts. His unusual voice and mature demeanor made him stand out, and soon, he was a regular guest on talk shows like The Mike Douglas Show. Hollywood took notice, but despite his early fame, Mason never quite made the jump to major film or TV roles. By the time he reached his teenage years, the jobs started drying up, and Mason faced a choice—keep chasing Hollywood or step away.
He chose the latter. Instead of fading into obscurity, Mason reinvented himself in the restaurant business, opening a series of successful bars and eateries in New York City. While he occasionally pops up in documentaries and interviews reminiscing about his child star days, he’s more focused on real-world success. In a world where former child actors often struggle to find their footing, Mason proved that sometimes, walking away is the smartest move. He may not be in commercials anymore, but his business savvy kept him in the spotlight in a different way.
3. Lance Kerwin – Teen Idol to Minister
If you were a fan of heartfelt dramas in the ’70s, you probably remember Lance Kerwin. He starred in James at 15, a coming-of-age series that tackled real teenage struggles—something rare for its time. Lance wasn’t just another pretty face; he was considered one of the most talented young actors of his generation. He appeared in numerous TV movies, including Salem’s Lot, which remains a horror classic. But despite his early success, Lance’s career began to stall as he transitioned into adulthood. Roles became scarce, and like many child stars, he faced personal struggles that made Hollywood even harder to navigate.
So, what happened next? Lance walked away from the business entirely and found a new purpose—faith. He moved to Hawaii, where he worked as a youth pastor, guiding young people through their own struggles. His departure from Hollywood wasn’t just about career challenges; it was a deeper search for meaning beyond fame. While he occasionally took small roles later in life, his focus remained on ministry. Sadly, Lance passed away in 2023, but his journey from teen idol to mentor showed that sometimes, life’s greatest roles happen off-screen.
4. Quinn Cummings – Oscar Nominee Turned Entrepreneur
Quinn Cummings had a career most child actors could only dream of. At just 10 years old, she earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in The Goodbye Girl, and soon after, she landed a recurring part on Family. She had the talent, the opportunities, and Hollywood at her feet. But instead of chasing stardom into adulthood, Quinn made a surprising choice—she walked away. Unlike many child stars who struggle with fame’s ups and downs, Quinn saw the industry for what it was and decided she wanted something more stable and fulfilling.
So where did she go? Quinn became a writer and inventor, proving that creativity doesn’t have to be confined to the screen. She authored several humorous books, giving readers an inside look at Hollywood and parenthood with her signature wit. She also founded a company that designed ergonomic baby slings, showing that reinvention is possible at any stage in life. Quinn’s departure from acting wasn’t dramatic—no scandals, no breakdowns. She simply realized that Hollywood wasn’t the only place where she could thrive. And judging by her success, she was absolutely right.
5. Johnny Whitaker – From Family Affair to Addiction Recovery Advocate
Johnny Whitaker was one of the most recognizable child actors of the late ’60s and early ’70s. As Jody on Family Affair, he won hearts with his adorable curls and sweet demeanor. When the show ended, Johnny kept working, appearing in movies like Tom Sawyer and The Littlest Angel. But as he grew older, Hollywood’s love affair with him started to fade. Like many child stars, Johnny struggled with the transition into adulthood, and without the structured life of a TV show, he found himself lost. Unfortunately, his post-Hollywood years were marked by personal battles, including addiction.
But Johnny didn’t let his struggles define him. After years of battling substance abuse, he turned his life around and became a certified addiction counselor. His focus shifted from entertaining people to helping them, using his own experiences to guide others toward recovery. He also co-founded a non-profit organization dedicated to helping former child stars navigate life after fame. Johnny’s story is a reminder that even the brightest stars can face dark times, but redemption is always possible. His journey from Hollywood to healing is one worth remembering.
6. Erin Murphy – Tabitha from Bewitched Who Found Success Elsewhere
If you grew up watching Bewitched, you definitely remember Tabitha, the adorable daughter of Samantha and Darrin. Erin Murphy played the role from the age of two, enchanting audiences with her tiny nose wiggles and mischievous magic. But when the show ended in 1972, Erin, like many child stars, faced the challenge of figuring out what came next. Unlike some of her peers, she didn’t chase acting roles relentlessly. Instead, she decided to explore other passions, dabbling in everything from stunt work to fashion and even journalism.
Her career path has been nothing short of fascinating. Erin became a successful entrepreneur, launching multiple businesses, including one focused on eco-friendly products. She also worked as a motivational speaker, sharing her experiences in Hollywood and beyond. While she occasionally returns to the industry for reality TV and nostalgic reunions, she never let it define her entire identity. Instead of being just “Tabitha from Bewitched,” Erin Murphy built a career on her own terms. And considering how many former child stars struggle to find their place, that’s pretty magical in itself.
7. Andrea McArdle – Broadway’s Annie Who Found a New Stage
Andrea McArdle didn’t just act in Hollywood—she took Broadway by storm. In 1977, she became the original Annie, belting out “Tomorrow” with a voice that sent chills down everyone’s spine. At just 13 years old, she became a theater icon, earning a Tony nomination and setting the standard for future Annies. But after her rise to fame on stage, Andrea faced the same challenge many child stars do: what’s next? While she continued acting in smaller roles, she never quite reached the same level of stardom.
Instead of chasing the Hollywood dream, Andrea stayed true to her theatrical roots. She continued performing on stage but also found joy in teaching and mentoring young performers. Rather than clinging to fame, she embraced a quieter, more fulfilling career path. Though she occasionally pops up in nostalgic Broadway events, Andrea’s life today is about inspiring the next generation of performers rather than constantly being in the spotlight herself. She may not be belting out “Tomorrow” on the big stage every night, but she’s still making a lasting impact in the world of theater.
8. Peter Ostrum – The Original Charlie Bucket Who Chose a Real-Life Golden Ticket
You may not recognize his name, but you definitely know his face. Peter Ostrum played Charlie Bucket in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, the lucky boy who found the golden ticket and entered a world of pure imagination. Unlike many child actors, Peter had only one major role—just one. And then? He walked away. Hollywood came calling after Willy Wonka, offering him more roles, but Peter realized acting wasn’t the life he wanted. Instead of chasing stardom, he quietly disappeared from the industry.
So, where did he go? Believe it or not, Peter became a veterinarian. Inspired by a local vet who treated his family’s horse, he decided that caring for animals was his true passion. Today, he works in upstate New York, helping animals instead of chasing cameras. He rarely gives interviews, but when he does, he talks about how grateful he is for his Willy Wonka experience—even if it wasn’t the career path he ultimately chose. His story proves that sometimes, walking away from fame can lead to an even sweeter life.
9. Tatum O’Neal – The Youngest Oscar Winner Who Struggled with Stardom
Tatum O’Neal made history at just 10 years old when she won an Academy Award for Paper Moon. She was the youngest person ever to win an Oscar, and Hollywood seemed to have big plans for her. But behind the scenes, Tatum’s life wasn’t as glamorous as it seemed. Her childhood was filled with family drama, struggles with addiction, and the weight of being a young girl in an unforgiving industry. Despite starring in more films throughout the ’70s and ’80s, her personal battles often overshadowed her career.
Eventually, Tatum stepped away from acting for long stretches of time, focusing instead on getting her life back on track. She wrote a memoir detailing the hardships of her Hollywood childhood, including her strained relationship with her father, Ryan O’Neal. While she occasionally returns to the screen, her main focus has been on healing and rebuilding. Her story is a cautionary tale of the dark side of fame, but also a testament to resilience. Even after the struggles, she continues to fight for her own happy ending.
10. Mike Lookinland – From The Brady Bunch to a Quiet Life Behind the Scenes
Mike Lookinland will always be remembered as Bobby Brady, the youngest son in The Brady Bunch. For five seasons, he was a part of one of the most beloved TV families in history. But after the show ended, Mike found himself at a crossroads. He dabbled in acting for a bit but quickly realized Hollywood wasn’t where he wanted to be. Unlike some of his co-stars, he had no desire to stay in front of the camera, so he made a bold choice—he left acting entirely.
Instead, Mike found his passion behind the scenes. He became a cameraman and worked on major film and TV productions, preferring to operate cameras rather than be in front of them. In recent years, he’s also pursued another unexpected career—owning a concrete business in Utah. While he’s occasionally participated in Brady Bunch reunions, he’s largely stayed out of the public eye. His decision to step away proves that sometimes, the best way to stay in the industry is to change how you’re involved.
11. Lisa Gerritsen – From The Mary Tyler Moore Show to a Private Life
Lisa Gerritsen was a rising star in the ’70s, best known for playing Bess Lindstrom on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and its spin-off Phyllis. She had a promising career, working steadily as a child and teenage actor. But unlike many of her peers, Lisa made a conscious decision to leave acting behind before Hollywood could chew her up and spit her out. As she reached adulthood, she simply walked away from the industry, choosing a normal life over the uncertainty of show business.
So, what did she do instead? Lisa transitioned into a career in business and technology, working behind the scenes in corporate America. She rarely gives interviews and has kept her life extremely private, proving that not every former child star needs to stay in the spotlight. While she’s not involved in Hollywood anymore, fans of The Mary Tyler Moore Show still remember her fondly. And for Lisa, that’s probably enough—she got her taste of fame, and then she moved on to something more stable and fulfilling.
12. Jeffrey Byron – From Sci-Fi Star to the World of Medicine
Jeffrey Byron might not be a household name today, but in the ’70s, he was a familiar face in sci-fi and adventure films. He appeared in shows like The Bold and the Beautiful and movies like Star Trek: The Motion Picture. But as he grew older, he realized that acting wasn’t the only thing he wanted to do. While he still dabbled in entertainment, he decided to shift gears and focus on a completely different career—medicine.
Jeffrey eventually became involved in medical technology, using his influence and knowledge to help develop new healthcare innovations. While he never completely left Hollywood, his main focus has been on improving people’s lives through science. It’s a rare transition for a former child star, but one that has given him purpose beyond the entertainment industry. His story is proof that reinvention is possible, no matter how early you start in life.
13. Radames Pera – Kung Fu’s Young Grasshopper Who Became a Tech Expert
Radames Pera is best known for playing young Kwai Chang Caine, also known as “Grasshopper,” in the 1970s series Kung Fu. He was wise beyond his years on-screen, but once the show ended, Hollywood wasn’t as kind to him. He struggled to find steady acting work and eventually decided to leave the industry. Instead of chasing roles, Radames took a completely different path—one that had nothing to do with acting.
He found success in the tech world, working in lighting and home theater design. His career change proved that sometimes, stepping away from the limelight is the best decision a former child star can make. While he occasionally makes appearances at fan conventions, he’s much happier in his life now. His story serves as a reminder that childhood fame doesn’t have to define someone forever—there’s always another way forward.
