1. Alana Thompson Finding Her Own Way
Sometimes we look back at the kids we watched on reality TV and wonder how life shaped them after the cameras stopped. Alana Thompson grew up in the whirlwind of Honey Boo Boo but today she is calmer and more focused. She finished high school, talks openly about wanting to build a career in nursing, and spends more time creating a peaceful routine. She still shares moments online yet avoids the loudness that once defined her childhood. Alana’s shift into adulthood feels steady and gentle, showing how someone who started big can grow into someone who prefers quiet strength.
2. Jazz Jennings Learning Balance
Jazz Jennings stepped into millions of homes through I Am Jazz and her honesty made her unforgettable. Now older, she has learned to slow down and protect her peace. College, personal growth, and intentional breathing space shape her everyday life. She still cares about advocacy but now places her well being first. Jazz spends more time with family, takes breaks when needed, and focuses on living at her own pace. Her journey into adulthood feels grounded and thoughtful, proving that even those raised on television can redefine themselves with patience and self understanding.
3. Mason Disick Growing Up Quietly
Mason Disick grew up surrounded by one of the most famous families in modern pop culture, yet he has chosen a path far calmer than the one he was born into. He rarely appears on camera, stays private on social media, and enjoys being a regular teen. His mother often mentions how much he appreciates his space and that shows in how he carries himself. Mason’s childhood was filled with bright lights and constant attention, but his teen years reflect the opposite. He seems happy stepping back and choosing quiet moments over a public spotlight.
4. Bella Robertson Staying Creative
Bella Robertson from Duck Dynasty has grown into adulthood with a gentle mix of creativity, simplicity, and learning. She married young and often shares that marriage has been a journey of patience, discovery, and building something meaningful. Bella enjoys moments of stillness, writes, explores her interests, and chooses privacy over pressure. Though she grew up in a lively household that millions watched, her adult life feels softer and more controlled. She continues to grow at her own pace, showing that stepping into adulthood can look humble, warm, and quietly fulfilling.
5. Jonah Johnston Finding His Path
Jonah Johnston from 7 Little Johnstons has grown through a mix of challenges and progress. His transition into adulthood has not always been smooth, but he continues to work toward independence with honesty and determination. He explores jobs that help him build confidence and practices better ways to manage stress. His family often cheers him on, reminding him that every step forward counts. Jonah’s journey may be imperfect, but it is real and relatable. He is learning to trust himself and move steadily toward the life he wants, one thoughtful decision at a time.
6. Eden Wood Crafting a New Identity
Eden Wood from Toddlers and Tiaras amazed viewers with her pageant personality, yet she stepped into a new chapter long before many child stars do. She shifted from pageants to school activities, music, and creative hobbies that allowed her to feel more like a regular kid. Today she lives with far less pressure and more personal freedom. Eden occasionally shares updates but keeps most of her life quiet and grounded. Her adulthood reflects a softer identity built on her real interests rather than the expectations placed on her in early childhood.
7. Jinger Duggar Vuolo Building a Calmer Life
Jinger Duggar Vuolo grew up in the strict environment of 19 Kids and Counting, but adulthood has opened doors to reflection and personal change. She moved to California, found a rhythm with her husband and daughters, and began exploring her own beliefs. She writes, shares her thoughts on personal growth, and embraces a lifestyle filled with more freedom. Jinger is still connected to her family but chooses a balanced path that feels lighter than her early years. Her story shows how growing older often means choosing your own pace and creating a life that feels truly yours.
8. Brandon Quinton Choosing Privacy
Brandon Quinton from Here Comes Honey Boo Boo has taken a quiet approach to adulthood. While viewers remember his sweet personality from the show, he now prefers a peaceful life away from television. He keeps a low profile, spends time on personal goals, and avoids online noise. His journey may not be flashy, yet it reflects a healthy desire for calm. Brandon’s path reminds us that not every former reality child wants fame to follow them forever. Sometimes the best growth happens silently, far from cameras, in the comfort of everyday routines.
9. Noah Brown Growing Stronger
Noah Brown from Alaskan Bush People has continued to grow into a grounded adult shaped by creativity and family values. He is a dedicated husband and father who enjoys building, crafting, and solving everyday problems with his hands. Noah balances being part of a well known family with creating a home that feels steady and private. His days are filled with simple routines, caring for his children, and pursuing small projects that bring him joy. As he moves forward, he shows how reality TV kids can evolve into adults who appreciate hard work and quiet strength.
10. Sophia Pippen Finding Independence
Sophia Pippen grew up in a famous household and still managed to carve out her own identity. She has explored modeling and fashion while keeping school and friendships at the center of her life. Sophia enjoys expressing her style through photos and creative projects, yet she does so with balance instead of pressure. Her childhood connections to basketball and entertainment shaped her early years, but her teen years reflect a more grounded young woman who values independence. Sophia’s path shows how kids from well known families can stay mindful and build confidence in gentle, natural ways.
11. Mady Gosselin Staying Focused
Mady Gosselin from Jon and Kate Plus 8 has grown into a thoughtful adult who values honesty and privacy. She speaks openly about her childhood only when necessary and spends more time focusing on her education and personal life. Mady enjoys creativity, shares occasional reflections, and carries herself with calm maturity. Even though the world watched her grow up, she now chooses her own boundaries. Her journey feels steady and intentional, reminding us that former child stars can thrive when they understand themselves and decide how much of their story the world should see.
12. Alexis Gosselin Keeping Things Steady
Alexis Gosselin has chosen an extremely quiet life compared to her early years on Jon and Kate Plus 8. She rarely appears online, focuses on school, and enjoys normal routines without cameras following her. Unlike some child stars who stay connected to fame, Alexis has embraced privacy fully. She spends her time building her own identity, away from TV narratives. Her peaceful approach to adulthood shows how some kids grow best when they step back completely. Alexis’s story is gentle and steady, shaped by personal choice rather than public expectation.
13. Reign Disick Growing Confident
Reign Disick has been part of the Kardashian world since birth, yet he is slowly growing into his own personality. His playful nature still appears in family photos, but he enjoys a mix of normal childhood routines and special moments. His mother often shares that he loves expressing himself freely, and that confidence shows in the way he interacts with family. Reign’s journey is still unfolding, but he is learning to balance being part of a famous family with enjoying a regular childhood. His early life reflects warmth, creativity, and honest youthful energy.
14. Aubree Lind Embracing Stability
Aubree Lind from Teen Mom 2 has grown into a grounded young teen surrounded by love and structure. Her mother Chelsea has been intentional about giving her a more private and stable life as she grows older. Aubree enjoys school, sports, friendships, and simple routines that keep her grounded. She rarely appears on screen now, and when she does, it feels natural and relaxed. Aubree’s adulthood is being shaped by security and support. Her story shows how thoughtful parenting can rewrite the early script of a reality TV childhood.
15. Sophia Abraham Exploring Interests
Sophia Abraham from Teen Mom has been discovering who she is through creativity and personal exploration. She enjoys fashion, digital projects, and expressing herself through small artistic outlets. While her childhood included many public moments, her current path blends privacy with selective sharing. Sophia often tries new things and uses trial and error to figure out what feels right. Her journey into adolescence is layered and genuine, showing that her identity is still taking shape. She continues to grow with curiosity and a desire to understand herself more clearly.
16. Anna Johnston Gaining Confidence
Anna Johnston from 7 Little Johnstons has grown into a confident and cheerful young woman who enjoys independence. She works, studies, spends time with friends, and travels when she can. Anna loves expressing her personality through her style and shares glimpses of her journey with warmth. Her transition into adulthood feels natural and honest as she learns more about relationships, responsibilities, and her own goals. Anna’s growth reflects a steady rhythm of self discovery and courage, showing how young adults can evolve beautifully when supported and encouraged.
17. Collin Gosselin Carving His Path
Collin Gosselin has had one of the more complex journeys among former reality TV kids. His transition into adulthood includes moments of reflection, rebuilding, and creating structure. He has taken steps to form a disciplined future and has been working toward long term stability. Collin’s early years were heavily shaped by public attention, but his current path is guided by personal choice and determination. He continues to focus on growth, clarity, and forming a life that reflects who he wants to become. His story reminds us that resilience can carry someone far beyond their beginnings.
18. Ella Thompson Growing Naturally
Ella Thompson from Here Comes Honey Boo Boo has grown up with much less attention than she received in her younger years. She enjoys regular school routines, family time, and quiet days that allow her to develop normally. She appears occasionally in family updates, yet she maintains a comfortable distance from public life. Ella is growing at a pace that suits her, shaped by stability rather than pressure. Her journey feels warm and grounded, showing that sometimes the healthiest path for former reality kids is simply being allowed to grow without constant eyes watching.
19. Josie Duggar Thriving Quietly
Josie Duggar has grown into a cheerful young girl who enjoys a more private life than her earlier years on television. Her family often shares small updates that show her smiling, healthy, and involved in everyday childhood activities. Josie’s early life came with unique challenges, but today she thrives in calm routines, school activities, and time spent with siblings. She grows without public pressure and embraces her own rhythm. Josie’s journey shows how stepping out of the spotlight can give kids the space they need to flourish in the most natural way.
20. Leah Messer Growing Gracefully
Leah Messer from Teen Mom 2 has been growing into a warm, talented teen with her own gentle personality. She enjoys school, cheerleading, friendships, and spending time with her family. Her mother often describes her as someone with a big heart and that energy shows in how she carries herself. Aleeah still appears occasionally on screen, but her life feels more grounded and balanced than before. Her growth reminds us that even kids who grew up in front of millions can find peace through normal routines, steady love, and quiet moments that shape who they become.
21. The Olsen Twins, From Screen to Style Icons
Some childhood stars don’t just grow up, they transform entirely. The sisters Mary-Kate Olsen and Ashley Olsen started on TV as the shared role of Michelle Tanner in the sitcom Full House. Today, they’re known less for acting and more for their influence in fashion, having built a high-end luxury label that’s widely respected in the industry. This shift shows how former child actors can reinvent themselves, turning early fame into a sophisticated, successful adult career.
22. Chloé Lukasiak, Dance Star Becomes Multi-Talented Creator
Chloé started young as one of the original dancers on Dance Moms, a show that spotlighted the highs and sometimes harsh realities of dance competitions. As she grew older, she transitioned smoothly out of that chapter into acting, modeling, writing, and content creation. She has appeared in multiple films, built a strong social media presence, and even published written work. Her evolution demonstrates resilience and versatility, she didn’t let early pressure define her forever, choosing instead to expand her talents and explore new creative paths.
23. Morgan York, From Child Actress to Author & Podcaster
Morgan York started acting when she was still very young, appearing in family comedies and a hit series aimed at teens. But by the time she was a teenager, she decided acting wasn’t her long-term path and stepped away from the spotlight. Since then, Morgan reinvented herself as an author, podcaster, and creative writer, pursuing a more private, self-directed life focused on her love for storytelling. Her story shows that not all who start in entertainment stay there: sometimes growth means changing direction completely.
24. Ryan Gosling, From Child TV Guest to Hollywood Star
Many know Ryan Gosling as the talented actor behind major blockbuster films, but fewer remember his humble beginnings as a child performer on television. As a kid, he made guest appearances on shows like Are You Afraid of the Dark? and other youth-oriented series. Over time, his raw potential, talent, and determination carried him far beyond children’s TV, evolving into one of Hollywood’s most respected leading men. His transformation reminds us that early roles don’t limit future potential, they can be stepping stones to amazing things.
25. Frankie Bridge, From Pop Teen to Balanced Adult Life
When she was just a pre-teen, Frankie Bridge joined the pop group S Club Juniors through a reality-style competition, quickly becoming a name in music. She later moved on to the popular group The Saturdays and experienced life on tour, in the spotlight, and under public scrutiny. In recent years, she has stepped back from constant fame to focus on her personal life, including motherhood and other passions outside of music. For Frankie, growing up in public didn’t mean staying there forever, she chose balance, peace, and purpose beyond childhood stardom.
26. Willow Smith Growing Into Her Voice
Willow Smith began her public life with a hit song at just ten years old, but her transformation in the years that followed has been thoughtful and intentional. Today she is an artist, performer, and writer who values calmness, introspection, and personal expression. Willow often explores themes of identity, creativity, and emotional growth in her music, showing a deeper maturity than most expect from someone who started so young. She has stepped away from traditional fame and embraced a more grounded lifestyle focused on learning and expanding her artistic style. Willow’s evolution from child entertainer to self-aware young adult highlights how early fame can evolve into meaningful personal growth.
27. Gaten Matarazzo Balancing Spotlight and Real Life
Gaten Matarazzo became widely recognized through Stranger Things, but his journey began much earlier with theater roles and small productions. As he grew up onscreen, he also learned how to navigate the balance between fame and normal teenage life. Gaten remains close to his family, continues his advocacy for cleidocranial dysplasia, and uses his platform in a positive way. Offscreen, he enjoys gaming, music, and spending time with friends. His ability to stay grounded while starring in a global hit series shows a level of maturity that many young actors strive for. Gaten’s path highlights how steady support and authenticity help young stars evolve into confident adults.
28. JoJo Siwa Redefining Herself
JoJo Siwa burst into the spotlight on Dance Moms and quickly became a household name with her energetic personality and signature bows. But as she grew older, she began carving out a new, more mature identity while still embracing the bright, expressive spirit that made her famous. JoJo has expanded into television hosting, acting, and music, showing she is more than a childhood brand. She openly shares her personal journey, future goals, and creative evolution with her audience. JoJo’s transition from child star to empowered young adult reflects a determination to grow on her own terms and build a long-lasting, multifaceted career.
29. Maddie Poppe Finding Her Musical Lane
Maddie Poppe gained attention long before winning American Idol. As a child, she performed at local events, posted early music online, and built a following through her warm voice and relatable personality. After Idol, she began shaping her adult career with a gentler, singer-songwriter style that reflects her natural storytelling ability. Maddie remains connected to her fans, touring across the country, releasing new music, and collaborating with other artists. Even with rising fame, she keeps her life grounded through family, creativity, and maintaining control over her artistic direction. Her story shows how early passion can grow into a steady, meaningful career.
30. Parker Schnabel Growing Into Leadership
Parker Schnabel entered the spotlight as a teen on Gold Rush, where viewers watched him learn the ropes of mining from seasoned mentors. Over time, he grew from a determined young helper into a skilled leader managing large-scale operations. Parker’s maturity shows in the way he handles responsibilities, solves on-site challenges, and guides his crew through demanding seasons. Despite the intensity of the work, he stays humble, focused, and committed to improving his craft. Parker’s evolution from a hardworking teen to a capable young adult reflects how real-world experience can shape someone far beyond what reality TV captures.
31. Jazz Smollett Staying Behind the Scenes
Jazz Smollett first appeared on television alongside her talented siblings, but as she grew older, she leaned toward building her career off-camera. Today she works in producing, cooking, and lifestyle content, choosing creativity and privacy over constant visibility. Jazz enjoys raising her family, developing her own projects, and sharing helpful, uplifting insights in a way that feels authentic and relaxed. Her early TV experience helped shape her confidence, but her adulthood reflects a quieter, more intentional path. Jazz’s story shows how some former child stars thrive best when they shift from the spotlight to spaces where they can grow privately and purposefully.
32. Rico Rodriguez Finding His Next Chapter
Rico Rodriguez won hearts as Manny on Modern Family, playing a character who felt wise beyond his years. After the show ended, he took time to focus on school, personal growth, and deciding what he wanted his adult life to look like. Rico remains open to future acting roles but has also explored voice work, writing, and developing his own creative ideas. He continues to spend time with loved ones and shares occasional updates with fans who watched him grow up. His transition into adulthood has been steady and thoughtful, showing that child fame can evolve into a new chapter filled with patience and self-discovery.
33. Kylie Jenner Managing a Public Childhood
Kylie Jenner grew up in one of the most documented families in modern entertainment, with her early years unfolding on reality television. As she transitioned into adulthood, she shifted her attention toward business, launching beauty and lifestyle brands that gained global recognition. Though she remains in the public eye, Kylie balances her career with raising her children and managing her personal life with intentional boundaries. Her journey from reality TV teen to young entrepreneur shows how early fame can be transformed into long-term opportunity. Kylie’s evolution is shaped by creativity, business focus, and a desire to create stability despite growing up under constant attention.
34. Bella Ramsey Growing Through Storytelling
Bella Ramsey became known at a young age for powerful performances in television and film, beginning with a breakout role in Game of Thrones. As they moved into adulthood, Bella continued to grow artistically, taking on emotionally deep roles and using storytelling to express identity and compassion. Offscreen, Bella focuses on personal well-being, creative exploration, and connecting with fans in a calm and honest way. Their journey reflects a thoughtful balance between career demands and inner growth. Bella’s shift from child performer to respected young actor shows how talent, resilience, and self-awareness shape a meaningful path forward.
35. Lauryn “Pumpkin” Shannon Stepping Into Adulthood
Lauryn “Pumpkin” Shannon stepped into the public eye as a young teen on Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, but adulthood has reshaped her life in significant ways. Now a mother of several children, she balances family life with occasional TV appearances and content creation. Pumpkin often steps into a leadership role within her family, offering support and structure for her siblings while managing her own household. Despite the challenges of growing up in reality television, she remains grounded and focused on giving her children a stable environment. Her journey reflects strength, growth, and the ability to build something steady after a chaotic childhood.
36. Skai Jackson Growing With Purpose
Skai Jackson rose to fame through Disney Channel but her transition into adulthood has been shaped by intentional growth and thoughtful choices. She continues to act, write, and advocate for positive causes, using her platform to encourage kindness and confidence in younger audiences. Skai enjoys connecting with fans in a balanced way, sharing insights into her real life while keeping certain parts private for her own well-being. As she matures, her career expands into new roles, creative projects, and brand partnerships that reflect her evolving identity. Skai’s journey reinforces that childhood stardom can develop into a meaningful, purposeful adult life when guided with care and determination.
37. Finn Wolfhard Navigating Creative Freedom
Finn Wolfhard became globally known through Stranger Things, but his growth as an adult has taken him far beyond that single role. Alongside acting, he explores directing, writing, and music, showing a desire to create stories instead of just starring in them. Finn maintains a grounded outlook despite the immense attention that comes with his career, often emphasizing the importance of friends, family, and personal creative time. His shift into adulthood feels natural and artistically driven, with each new project highlighting his curiosity and evolving skills. Finn’s journey reflects how young stars can balance pressure with passion to carve out a diverse future.
38. Millie Bobby Brown Building Her Own World
Millie Bobby Brown’s rise from a young Netflix star to an internationally recognized actress has been fast yet purposeful. As she matured, she built a brand that includes acting roles, production work, and business ventures, including her own beauty line. Millie has openly discussed the challenges of growing up in the public eye, choosing to emphasize boundaries, family support, and emotional well-being. Her career continues to expand with film roles, entrepreneurial projects, and creative collaborations. Millie’s evolution into adulthood shows how talent, focus, and strong values can help a former child star build a powerful and grounded identity.
39. Jaden Smith Creating His Own Lane
Jaden Smith entered the entertainment world at a young age through acting but quickly expanded his identity into music, fashion, and social impact. As he grew older, he focused on creative self-expression and launched projects centered around innovation, sustainability, and individuality. Jaden’s adulthood includes artistic experimentation, philanthropy, and speaking out about causes he believes in. While he still appears in select film and music projects, he also values personal growth and spiritual development. Jaden’s journey shows how early fame can transform into a unique, self-directed path built on curiosity, compassion, and creativity.
40. Mackenzie Ziegler Developing Her Own Voice
Mackenzie Ziegler first appeared on Dance Moms as the youngest dancer on the team, but her growth since then has been steady and inspiring. She expanded into singing, acting, content creation, and fashion collaborations, showing a passion for many creative outlets. As she moves into young adulthood, Mackenzie prioritizes balance, friendships, and projects that reflect her evolving personality. She continues to explore who she wants to become while maintaining a warm relationship with her supporters. Her story illustrates how children who grow up on competitive reality TV can transform their early experiences into diverse opportunities filled with choice and confidence.
This story Where Are They Now? 40 Former Reality TV Kids Who Grew Up in the Spotlight was first published on Daily FETCH
