“Willy Wonka’s” Peter Ostrum Became a Veterinarian
Peter’s only film role was as Charlie in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, for good reason. He declined Hollywood’s offers, opting instead to follow his love of animals. After graduating from Cornell with a DVM, he built a career caring for farm and equine animals and occasionally visits schools to share his story. Even today he earns a small royalty every few months from the film, a sweet echo of his cinematic days.
“Wonder Years” Danica McKellar became a Mathematician
Danica captured our hearts on The Wonder Years, but her real spotlight came afterward. Graduating summa cum laude with a math degree from UCLA, she co‑authored the Chayes‑McKellar‑Winn theorem, a serious contribution to mathematical physics. Bored solving for x? Not Danica. She’s a New York Times bestselling author of fun, empowering math books like Math Doesn’t Suck and The Times Machine!, reaching millions of kids and reframing math as cool.
“Facts of Life” Lisa Whelchel Followed Her Spiritual Journey
Known to millions as the posh Blair Warner on The Facts of Life, Lisa gracefully shifted gears. She released a Grammy‑nominated Christian music album and became a sought‑after author and speaker in faith and family circles. With over ten books on parenting, homeschooling, prayer, and more, she also founded Momtime Ministries to support mothers worldwide, using her platform to inspire compassion and connection.
“Wonder Years” Josh Saviano Became an Attorney
Paul Pfeiffer was the heart and soul of The Wonder Years, and Josh’s real‑life arc wasn’t far off. He left Hollywood, graduated from Yale, earned his J.D. at Cardozo, and became a corporate and intellectual property attorney. Later, he founded Act 3 Advisors and co‑founded Spotlight Advisory Group, helping artists and influencers shape their brands, bringing storytelling and commerce together under one roof.
“Benson’s” Missy Gold Became a Psychologist
Missy Gold became known to audiences as Katie Gatling on Benson, a role that showcased her talent and charm. However, after her acting career, she pursued a different passion: psychology. She earned a Ph.D. from the California School of Professional Psychology and now practices as a licensed psychologist in Maine. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to understanding and helping others, demonstrating that success can take many forms beyond the entertainment industry.
“Goonies” Jeff Cohen Became an Entertainment Lawyer
Jeff Cohen, best known for his role as Chunk in The Goonies, transitioned from acting to law after puberty ended his Hollywood career. He earned a J.D. from UCLA School of Law and co-founded Cohen Gardner LLP in 2002, focusing on transactional representation in entertainment, media, and technology. Cohen has been recognized in Variety’s Dealmakers Impact List and Legal Impact List. He has represented clients like Michelle Yeoh and Ke Huy Quan, the latter of whom won an Oscar for Everything Everywhere All at Once. Cohen’s journey from child star to legal professional showcases the power of reinvention and adaptability.
“Family Ties” Tina Yothers Went into Music and Reality TV
Tina Yothers is best known for her role as Jennifer Keaton on Family Ties. After the show, she pursued a music career, forming the band Jaded in 1996. The band released a debut CD and video, seeking a record contract. Yothers also released a 12″ vinyl single titled “Over and Over” in 1987. In recent years, she has appeared on reality TV shows like Celebrity Fit Club and Celebrity Wife Swap. Yothers’s journey reflects a commitment to personal growth and exploring new avenues of expression.
“Growing Pains” Jeremy Miller Became a Chef and Motivational Speaker
Jeremy Miller, best known for his role as Ben Seaver on Growing Pains, faced personal challenges after the show ended, including struggles with alcoholism. He began drinking at just four years old, and by his early twenties, he was battling addiction. However, after hitting rock bottom, Jeremy turned his life around. He found solace in cooking, a passion he had developed during his childhood. Today, he is a chef and motivational speaker, using his experiences to inspire others and advocate for sobriety.
“Full House’s” Andrea Barber Became an Educator and Author
Andrea Barber, who portrayed Kimmy Gibbler on Full House, stepped away from acting after the show concluded. She pursued higher education, earning a degree in English from Whittier College and a master’s degree in Women’s Studies from the University of York in England. Andrea worked in international education before returning to acting for the Fuller House reboot. She also authored a memoir, Full Circle, reflecting on her experiences in Hollywood and her life after fame.
“Full House’s” Jodie Sweetin Became an Advocate for Recovery
Jodie Sweetin, beloved for her role as Stephanie Tanner on Full House, faced personal struggles with addiction after the show ended. She began using substances at 14 and battled addiction for years. In 2008, Jodie got sober and has since become an advocate for recovery. She hosts the podcast How Rude, Tanneritos! with fellow Full House star Andrea Barber, where they discuss their experiences and the impact of the show. Jodie also speaks publicly about addiction, mental health, and personal growth.
This story Sitcom Kids from the ’70s and ’80s Who Found Bigger Success After They Left Acting Behind was first publidhed on Daily FETCH
