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 – A Brady 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.
14. Ron Howard – From Opie to Acclaimed Director
Ron Howard first won hearts as Opie on The Andy Griffith Show and later as Richie Cunningham on Happy Days. Rather than stay in front of the camera, he built a lasting career as a director with hits like Apollo 13, A Beautiful Mind, and Solo. His work reflects a natural storyteller’s instinct shaped by years of acting. Howard’s path proves that child stardom can be a springboard into decades of creative achievement. Today, his name is synonymous with quality filmmaking, and his journey remains a rare example of early fame evolving into an enduring Hollywood legacy.
15. Mara Wilson – From Matilda to Writer
Mara Wilson became a familiar face in the 90s with her roles in Matilda and Mrs. Doubtfire. By her teens, she stepped away from acting, feeling Hollywood was not where she wanted to be. She later found her creative voice in writing, publishing books and sharing personal essays that explore life beyond child fame. Wilson has also embraced podcasting and speaking openly about mental health. Her candid, often humorous reflections have made her relatable to fans who grew up watching her. While many remember her as Matilda, she has built a fulfilling life defined on her own terms.
16. Jonathan Lipnicki – From Jerry Maguire to Martial Arts Mentor
Jonathan Lipnicki was just six when he made audiences smile in Jerry Maguire with his memorable lines and bright energy. He went on to star in Stuart Little before taking a long break from acting. During that time, he earned black belts in multiple martial arts and began mentoring young people. Lipnicki works with anti-bullying programs, showing his passion for guiding kids toward confidence and respect. Though he occasionally returns to independent film roles, his most important work happens away from the spotlight. His journey shows how childhood fame can inspire a life dedicated to helping others.
17. Mayim Bialik – From Blossom to Neuroscientist
Mayim Bialik became a teen icon in the 90s as Blossom Russo, admired for her charm and wit. After the show ended, she chose an unexpected path, earning a Ph.D. in neuroscience. Eventually, she returned to television as Amy Farrah Fowler on The Big Bang Theory, earning new fans and awards. Bialik now co-hosts Jeopardy! and writes about topics from parenting to mental health. She has shown that talent and intellect can go hand in hand, proving a career can evolve in surprising ways. Her life reflects a balance between creativity and academic achievement that inspires many.
18. Brian Bonsall – Family Ties to Punk Rock
Brian Bonsall’s time as Andy Keaton on Family Ties made him a lovable face of 80s television. After leaving acting in his teens, he faced personal challenges but found his way forward through music. Bonsall became a punk rock guitarist, touring with different bands and fully embracing the energy of live performance. He has said that music gave him purpose and helped him build a new identity. Today, his creativity thrives far from scripted lines and laugh tracks. Bonsall’s transformation is a reminder that life after early fame can take a completely different yet rewarding direction.
19. Lisa Whelchel – Blair from Facts of Life to Faith Leader
Lisa Whelchel brought glamour and humor to television as Blair Warner in The Facts of Life. After the show ended, she devoted her time to faith-based work, becoming an author and public speaker. She also surprised fans by competing on Survivor, where her strategic skills shone. Whelchel embraces the idea that life unfolds in seasons, each offering new opportunities to grow. While she is no longer a regular on television, her influence continues through the communities she supports. Her path shows how fame can serve as a foundation for building a meaningful and service-focused life.
20. Peter Billingsley – Ralphie to Producer
Peter Billingsley’s role as Ralphie in A Christmas Story remains one of the most beloved performances in holiday film history. While he occasionally acted afterward, he found his true place behind the camera. Billingsley has produced major films including Elf and Iron Man, building a career that focuses on shaping stories rather than starring in them. In 2022, he returned to his iconic role for A Christmas Story Christmas, delighting fans with a wave of nostalgia. Most of the time, though, his work happens quietly behind the scenes, where his influence on modern movies is both lasting and significant.
21. Danny Bonaduce – From Partridge Kid to Radio Rebel
Danny Bonaduce made his name as the cheeky middle child on The Partridge Family, a staple of 70s television. His life after acting was anything but quiet, with ventures into professional wrestling, reality television, and a successful radio career. Known for his bold personality, Bonaduce has never shied away from speaking his mind. While his journey has had its challenges, he has remained in the public eye through reinvention and resilience. Today, his radio work allows him to connect with audiences in a candid, entertaining way that keeps his legacy alive while offering something fresh.
22. Josh Saviano – From Wonder Years to Law
Josh Saviano played Paul Pfeiffer on The Wonder Years, becoming part of one of television’s most beloved coming-of-age stories. After the show ended, he chose a very different path, leaving acting to study law. Saviano built a successful career as an attorney before founding a brand consultancy, helping individuals and businesses tell their stories in a strategic way. The urban legend that he grew up to be a rock star was amusing to fans, but the truth is more grounded. Saviano’s journey proves that childhood fame can simply be one chapter in a much broader professional life.
23. Barret Oliver – NeverEnding Story to Photography
Barret Oliver’s role as Bastian in The NeverEnding Story made him a memorable figure in 80s fantasy films. Rather than stay in Hollywood, he stepped away in his teens to pursue a passion for photography. Specializing in historical photographic processes, Oliver became an expert in 19th-century techniques, teaching and sharing his craft with others. His work has been displayed in galleries and collected by enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry of traditional methods. Though he left acting long ago, his creative spirit thrives in another medium, showing that the urge to create can find new forms beyond the big screen.
24. Keshia Knight Pulliam – Rudy Huxtable to Philanthropy
Keshia Knight Pulliam became the youngest Emmy nominee ever for her role as Rudy Huxtable on The Cosby Show. She continued acting into adulthood, but her work now extends into philanthropy, particularly in programs supporting young girls and underserved communities. Pulliam’s mentorship efforts aim to inspire confidence and opportunity for those who need it most. She has built a life that blends her visibility with a commitment to service. While audiences will always remember her as Rudy, her lasting impact may come from the lives she changes through her dedication to giving back and creating pathways for others.
25. Wil Wheaton – From Stand By Me to Advocate
Wil Wheaton’s performances in Stand By Me and Star Trek: The Next Generation made him a favorite among sci-fi and drama fans. In adulthood, he focused on writing and speaking openly about mental health, particularly his experiences with anxiety and depression. Wheaton’s honesty has resonated deeply with fans, making him a trusted voice for those navigating similar struggles. Though he still acts occasionally, his advocacy work and creative projects define his career today. Wheaton’s willingness to share his story proves that the influence of a former child star can extend far beyond their most famous on-screen moments.
26. Taran Noah Smith – Home Improvement to Organic Farming
Taran Noah Smith grew up on television as Mark Taylor in Home Improvement. By the age of 16, he chose to leave acting entirely, preferring a quieter and more purposeful life. Smith founded an organic food company, dedicating his energy to sustainable living and healthy eating. He later became involved in disaster relief efforts, lending his time and skills to communities in need. His decision to step away from Hollywood allowed him to focus on work that brings direct, tangible benefits to others. Smith’s story is one of choosing impact over recognition and finding satisfaction in meaningful contributions.
27. Danny Lloyd – The Shining to Teaching
Danny Lloyd was only five years old when he played Danny Torrance in The Shining, delivering a hauntingly memorable performance. After that film, he retired from acting and focused on growing up out of the spotlight. Lloyd eventually became a biology professor in Kentucky, living a quiet and fulfilling life far from Hollywood. He occasionally appears for interviews or anniversary events related to the film, but his career is firmly rooted in education. Lloyd’s path shows that leaving the industry entirely can lead to a life that is steady, grounded, and rewarding in ways fame cannot always offer.
28. Noah Hathaway – Atreyu to Tattoo Artist
Noah Hathaway became an 80s fantasy hero as Atreyu in The NeverEnding Story. After acting in a few more projects, he pursued other passions, including martial arts and motorcycle racing. Eventually, Hathaway found a creative outlet in tattoo artistry, opening his own shop and working with clients to design meaningful body art. He occasionally appears at fan conventions, reconnecting with those who remember his iconic role. Hathaway’s life illustrates how early fame can be just one part of a much bigger journey, one where personal interests take the lead and creativity finds new ways to make an impact.
29. Ariana Richards – Jurassic Park to Painting
Ariana Richards will always be remembered as Lex in Jurassic Park, the clever girl who outran dinosaurs and won audiences over. As an adult, she stepped away from acting to focus on fine art, specializing in portrait painting. Her work has been exhibited in galleries across the United States, earning her recognition for her talent with a brush. Richards occasionally reconnects with her Jurassic Park roots through fan events, but her primary joy comes from capturing people’s stories on canvas. Her transition from screen to studio reflects a deep and lasting passion for creativity in all its forms.
30. Ross Malinger – Sleepless in Seattle to Business
Ross Malinger charmed viewers as Jonah in Sleepless in Seattle, delivering one of the most memorable child performances of the 90s. He acted in several more projects before stepping away from Hollywood altogether. Malinger eventually built a career in business management and later moved into the automotive industry. He has kept a low profile, focusing on work and family rather than public appearances. While fans still remember his sweet on-screen presence, his life today is centered on practical goals and stability. His story shows that leaving the spotlight can lead to a fulfilling and grounded personal journey.
31. Amanda Bynes – From Nickelodeon Darling to Fashion Student
Amanda Bynes became a household name on Nickelodeon’s All That and The Amanda Show before starring in popular teen films. After years in the public eye and some personal challenges, she chose to step back from acting. Bynes enrolled in fashion school, focusing on her studies and personal growth. Her shift from screen to classroom has allowed her to explore new creative outlets while maintaining a more private life. Though she remains a figure many grew up watching, her current path reflects a deliberate choice to move forward at her own pace and on her own terms.
32. Danny Cooksey – Diff’rent Strokes to Country Music
Danny Cooksey joined Diff’rent Strokes in its later seasons as the lovable Sam and later voiced characters in many 90s animated shows. He transitioned into music, performing in country and Southern rock bands for years. Cooksey has toured extensively, recorded albums, and continued voice acting for animated series. His career shows how skills learned in childhood acting can translate into other creative arenas. While many still remember his sitcom days, he has built a lasting presence in the music industry, blending performance with versatility and proving that early fame can be a starting point for many artistic paths.
33. Andrea Barber – Full House to Mental Health Advocacy
Andrea Barber became famous as the quirky Kimmy Gibbler on Full House, a role she reprised decades later in Fuller House. Between those shows, she stepped away from acting to focus on raising her family. Barber has since become a strong advocate for mental health, speaking openly about her own experiences with anxiety and depression. Her honesty has encouraged many to seek help and talk openly about wellness. While she remains connected to fans through her character, Barber’s influence now extends into an area that changes lives in lasting and personal ways beyond the television screen.
34. Jeff Cohen – Chunk from The Goonies to Entertainment Lawyer
Jeff Cohen’s role as Chunk in The Goonies, complete with the unforgettable “Truffle Shuffle,” made him a beloved 80s figure. He left acting and pursued law, eventually becoming a successful entertainment lawyer. Cohen represents actors, writers, and directors, using his industry knowledge to help others navigate their careers. His work keeps him close to the world of film, though now in a very different capacity. Cohen occasionally shares memories from The Goonies with fans, but his focus is firmly on supporting creative talent and ensuring that the next generation of storytellers thrives in a competitive industry.
35. Frankie Muniz – Malcolm to Race Car Driver
Frankie Muniz starred as the quick-witted Malcolm in Malcolm in the Middle, earning award nominations and a devoted fan base. After the show, he pursued professional race car driving, drumming in a band, and running several small businesses. Muniz has embraced variety in his career, exploring interests that keep him engaged and curious. He still acts occasionally but prefers projects that fit into his adventurous lifestyle. His path reflects a willingness to take risks and try new things, showing that life after child stardom can be just as exciting, even without the constant glare of Hollywood lights.
This story From Hollywood’s Brightest Kids to Life Beyond the Spotlight: 35 Former Child Stars and Where They Are Now was first published on Daily FETCH
