Peter Ostrum ("Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory"): From Golden Tickets to Barnyard Visits
After starring as Charlie Bucket in the 1971 classic Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Peter Ostrum was offered a three-movie contract. Surprisingly, he turned it down, famously stating that he wanted to keep his options open. He reportedly grew fond of the veterinarian who tended to his family's horse and decided that animal medicine was his true calling. He later earned his Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University.
Today, he is a retired large-animal veterinarian, having spent decades caring for cows and horses in rural New York rather than chasing fame in Hollywood.
Erin Murphy ("Bewitched"): From Witchcraft to Wellness Advocacy
Known to millions as the adorable Tabitha Stephens on Bewitched, Erin Murphy spent her early years surrounded by TV magic. When the show ended in 1972, she didn’t just fade away; she diversified her talents in a way few expected. Murphy reportedly worked as a casting director, a makeup artist, and even a motivational speaker. She has also spent significant time as an advocate for autism awareness, inspired by her personal family experiences.
While she occasionally pops up on reality television or at nostalgia events, her primary focus has been on her six children and various business ventures.
Danny Bonaduce ("The Partridge Family"): The Bass Player Turned Radio Royalty
As the wisecracking Danny Partridge on The Partridge Family, Danny Bonaduce was a 1970s staple. His life after the show was reportedly filled with significant ups and downs, but he found his footing in a surprising place: behind a microphone. Instead of acting, he became one of the most successful and recognizable radio personalities in the country. His quick wit, honed as a child star, translated perfectly to the morning talk format.
Though he has appeared in various reality shows over the years, his long-standing career in radio remains his most enduring and successful professional pivot.
Susan Dey ("The Partridge Family"): From Teen Idol to Serious Legal Eagle
Susan Dey played the stylish Laurie Partridge, becoming a poster girl for a generation of young women. While many child stars struggle to find adult roles, Dey successfully transitioned to the gritty world of L.A. Law in the 1980s, winning a Golden Globe for her portrayal of Grace Van Owen. After leaving the spotlight in the mid-90s, she chose a very private life. Reportedly, she has been involved in various philanthropic efforts.
She has stayed largely out of the public eye, choosing a quiet existence away from the glitz and glamour that defined her youth.
Jay North ("Dennis the Menace"): Dennis the Menace Finds Peace in Public Service
Jay North was the quintessential "troublemaker" as the star of Dennis the Menace from 1959 to 1963. However, the pressure of childhood fame reportedly took a heavy toll on him. After a brief stint in the Navy and some theater work, North walked away from the industry entirely. He eventually found a stable, fulfilling career working as a correctional officer in Florida. Additionally, he became a key member of "A Minor Consideration."
It was an organization dedicated to supporting child actors and protecting them from the pitfalls of the entertainment industry he knew so well.
Mike Lookinland ("The Brady Bunch"): Bobby Brady’s Artistic Concrete Path
As the youngest Brady brother, Bobby, Mike Lookinland was a central figure in the 1970s' most famous TV family. When the series concluded, Lookinland found he was more interested in what was happening behind the camera than in front of it, reportedly working as a camera operator for many years. However, his most unique turn came later in life when he moved to Utah to start a business making decorative concrete countertops.
He traded the "Sunshine Day" of television for the hands-on satisfaction of craftsmanship, proving that a Brady can build just about anything.
Christopher Knight ("The Brady Bunch"): Peter Brady’s Tech Revolution
Christopher Knight, the middle Brady boy, famously struggled with self-confidence during his time on the show. Once the cameras stopped rolling, he allegedly decided that the erratic nature of acting wasn't for him. He transitioned into the burgeoning world of 1980s technology, becoming a very successful businessman in the computer industry. He founded several companies, including a pioneering firm in 3D graphics. He occasionally returns for Brady reunions or reality TV.
But his primary legacy is that of a tech-savvy entrepreneur who successfully navigated the high-stakes world of Silicon Valley.
Maureen McCormick ("The Brady Bunch"): Marcia Brady’s Journey to Healing
Maureen McCormick was the "perfect" Marcia Brady, but her life behind the scenes was reportedly anything but easy. She has been very candid about her struggles with health and personal hurdles following the show's end. However, her "where are they now" story is one of incredible resilience. She became a best-selling author with her memoir and found a new niche in home renovation and design.
Recently, she starred in A Very Brady Renovation, combining her TV history with her genuine passion for interior style, showing fans that it is never too late to reinvent yourself.
Barry Williams ("The Brady Bunch"): Greg Brady’s Musical Stage Success
Barry Williams played the eldest Brady son and was a major teen heartthrob. While he never left the entertainment world entirely, his path was quite different from the sitcom life. He reportedly dedicated himself to musical theater, touring in productions like Pippin and The Music Man. Williams also became a successful author and a popular DJ. Today, he often performs in his own variety show in Branson, Missouri.
He leans into the nostalgia of the 70s while showcasing a level of musical talent that his "Johnny Bravo" character could only dream of achieving.
Eve Plumb ("The Brady Bunch"): Jan Brady’s Flourishing Art Career
"Jan, Jan, Jan!" While her character was often caught in Marcia's shadow, Eve Plumb has stepped into a very bright light of her own. Since the 1970s, Plumb has continued to act in theater and television, but her most surprising success has been as a professional painter. Her artwork, which often features still lifes and scenes from daily life, has been featured in galleries across the United States for over two decades.
She reportedly treats her painting as a full-time profession, finding a sense of peace and creative control that child acting rarely provides.
Ron Howard ("The Andy Griffith Show"): From Opie to the Director’s Chair
Ron Howard is perhaps the gold standard for child star transitions. After playing Opie on The Andy Griffith Show and Richie Cunningham on Happy Days, he reportedly felt a stronger pull toward the director’s monitor. He transitioned into filmmaking in the late 70s and never looked back. As the co-founder of Imagine Entertainment, he has directed Oscar-winning masterpieces like A Beautiful Mind. He is no longer seen as "little Ronny."
Rather, he is seen as one of the most influential and respected filmmakers in Hollywood history, a true titan of the industry.
Jerry Mathers ("Leave It to Beaver"): The Beaver’s Life in Finance and Health
Jerry Mathers became a household name as the lead in Leave It to Beaver. After the show ended in 1963, he took a break from acting to focus on his education and served in the Air Force Reserve. He reportedly found success in the world of private business, working as a commercial loan officer and a real estate agent. In his later years, Mathers became a prominent spokesperson for diabetes awareness after a personal health scare.
He successfully used his platform to educate others, proving that "The Beaver" grew up to be a very responsible advocate.
Tony Dow ("Leave It to Beaver"): Wally Beaver’s Transition to Fine Art Sculpture
Tony Dow played the dependable older brother Wally on Leave It to Beaver. While he continued to work as a director and actor for several years, his true passion was reportedly found in the world of fine art. Dow became a world-renowned bronze sculptor, with his work even being displayed in the Louvre in Paris. He allegedly found the solitary and creative nature of sculpting to be a perfect balance to the hectic world of television production.
Until his passing in 2022, he was highly respected in the international art community.
Butch Patrick ("The Munsters"): Eddie Munster’s Life in the Fast Lane
As the werewolf-child Eddie on The Munsters, Butch Patrick was an icon of 1960s television. Following the show, he reportedly struggled to find his footing but eventually found a unique niche in the world of automotive enthusiasm and horror fandom. He spent years touring with the famous "Munster Coach" and "Dragula" cars from the show. Patrick eventually settled into a life of promoting car shows and nostalgia events.
He reportedly found peace in his later years, embracing his quirky TV legacy while helping fans celebrate the "monster" culture of the 60s.
Bill Mumy: From "Lost in Space" to Musician, Photographer, and Author
Bill Mumy played the brilliant Will Robinson on Lost in Space, but his real-life intellect was focused on music and writing. After the 1960s, Mumy didn't just stay an actor; he became a prolific musician and songwriter, forming the quirky musical duo Barnes & Barnes (famous for the song "Fish Heads"). He also became a respected writer for comic books and television. He reportedly voiced many animated characters.
He remained a staple in the sci-fi community, proving that the boy who was "lost in space" actually knew exactly where he was going.
Pamelyn Ferdin ("Peanuts"): The Voice of Lucy Van Pelt Becomes an Advocate
If you watched cartoons in the 60s and 70s, you heard Pamelyn Ferdin’s voice. She was Lucy in Peanuts specials and starred in The Odd Couple. As she grew older, her interests shifted dramatically from the stage to the streets—specifically in the realm of animal rights. Ferdin reportedly became a high-profile and sometimes controversial activist, leading protests and serving as a spokesperson for various animal protection organizations.
She largely left acting behind to dedicate her life to what she considers a much higher calling: defending those who cannot speak for themselves.
Johnny Whitaker: From "Family Affair" to Helping Other Child Stars Heal
Johnny Whitaker, with his signature red hair, was a 1960s favorite on Family Affair. Following the show and his starring role in Tom Sawyer, he reportedly faced significant personal challenges during the late 70s. However, he turned those experiences into a career of service. Whitaker became a certified addiction counselor and founded a non-profit organization to help those struggling with similar issues. He reportedly worked as a talent agent as well.
He used his insider knowledge of Hollywood to protect and guide young performers, ensuring they had the support he once lacked.
Marc Copage: The "Julia Star" Who Found His Rhythm in Jazz
Marc Copage made history in the late 60s starring in Julia, one of the first shows to depict an African American woman in a non-stereotypical lead role. As an adult, Copage didn't pursue the Hollywood leading-man path. Instead, he followed his passion for music. He reportedly became a professional jazz musician and singer, performing at various clubs and events. While he has occasionally appeared in documentaries about television history.
He seems most content when he is at a piano or on a stage, letting the music tell his story rather than a script.
Mason Reese ("Borgasmord" Commercials): The Commercial King Who Became a Mogul
Mason Reese was the red-headed kid with the "borgasmord" commercial that everyone knew in the 70s. He was a talk-show staple and a pint-sized celebrity. Instead of trying to transition into adult acting, Reese reportedly used his fame and natural charisma to enter the world of New York City nightlife. He became a successful restaurateur and nightlife mogul, owning and operating several popular bars and eateries in Manhattan.
He eventually moved into the world of independent film production, proving that the kid from the commercials had a very sharp mind for business.
Quinn Cummings: From "The Goodbye Girl" to Inventive Entrepreneur
Quinn Cummings earned an Oscar nomination at age 10 for The Goodbye Girl. By the early 90s, she decided that the acting life was no longer for her. Cummings reportedly became a successful writer and entrepreneur. She invented the "HipHugger," a device for carrying babies, after becoming a mother herself. She also became a popular blogger and author, known for her sharp wit and humorous takes on modern life.
She reportedly finds much more satisfaction in writing her own narrative than she ever did in performing someone else’s lines on a movie set.
Mark Lester: The "Oliver! " Star Who Chose Healing Over Hollywood
Mark Lester captured the world's heart as the lead in the 1968 musical Oliver!. After a few more roles in the 70s, he reportedly grew tired of the industry. At the age of 19, he gave up acting entirely. Lester decided to pursue a career in medicine, specifically osteopathy. He eventually opened his own clinic in the UK, where he has worked as a successful osteopath for decades.
While he remained a close friend of Michael Jackson for many years, his daily life has been dedicated to physical therapy and helping his patients live pain-free lives.
Jack Wild ("Oliver! "): The Artful Dodger’s Journey Back to the Stage
Jack Wild received an Oscar nomination for his role as the Artful Dodger in Oliver! and later starred in the psychedelic 70s show H.R. Pufnstuf. He reportedly faced a very difficult transition into adulthood, struggling with personal health issues for many years. However, in a surprising and heart-warming turn, he staged a comeback in the 1990s and early 2000s. He appeared in films like Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and returned to the stage.
Until his passing in 2006, he reportedly found joy in performing again, proving that his "Artful" spirit never truly left him.
Leif Garrett ("Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice" & "The Odd Couple"): The Teen Idol Who Found Truth in Writing
Leif Garrett was the face on every bedroom wall in the late 70s, a music and TV sensation. His life after the height of fame was reportedly marked by significant public struggles. However, in recent years, Garrett has turned to writing as a form of reflection and healing. He published an autobiography titled Idol Truth, where he candidly discussed the realities of child stardom. He reportedly continues to work on music.
He remains a figure of interest for his honesty about the industry, transforming from a manufactured idol into a man who values authenticity above all else.
Tatum O’Neal ("Paper Moon"): The Youngest Oscar Winner’s Path to Authorship
Tatum O'Neal made history by winning an Academy Award at age 10 for Paper Moon in 1973. Her life in the 70s and 80s was reportedly lived under a microscope, filled with high-profile relationships and personal battles. In her later years, O'Neal found a new voice as a writer. She wrote two memoirs that were highly praised for their raw honesty about her childhood and her journey toward health.
While she still acts occasionally, she is now respected as a courageous narrator of her own life, proving she is much more than a childhood trophy.
Kristy McNichol ("Family"): The Family Star Who Chose Privacy and Teaching
Kristy McNichol was a two-time Emmy winner for her role as "Buddy" on the 1970s drama Family. She was one of the most sought-after young actresses of her time. In the early 90s, she made the surprising decision to retire from acting permanently to focus on her mental health and personal happiness. She reportedly spent years traveling and eventually began teaching acting at a private school in Los Angeles.
She has lived a very private, low-key life for the last thirty years, reportedly finding the peace that the high-pressure world of stardom never allowed.
Mackenzie Phillips: From "One Day at a Time" to Substance Use Counseling
Mackenzie Phillips was a breakout star in the 70s, but her personal life was reportedly fraught with complications. After decades of being in and out of the spotlight, she underwent a radical transformation. Phillips became a certified drug and alcohol counselor, working at a major recovery center in California. She used her own highly public struggles to help others navigate their path to sobriety.
Today, she is a sought-after speaker and an advocate for recovery, proving that your past does not have to define your future, and can instead be used to save lives.
Angela Cartwright ("The Sound of Music" and "Lost in Space"): From Von Trapp Singer to Photography Pro
Angela Cartwright had a legendary childhood, starring in The Sound of Music and Lost in Space. However, by the 1970s, she began to shift her focus away from the screen. She reportedly discovered a deep love for photography and the arts. Cartwright became a professional photographer and author, publishing several books on altered art and creative techniques. She also opened a boutique that focused on unique art pieces.
While she still makes appearances at fan conventions, her daily life is dedicated to the visual arts, capturing beauty from behind a lens.
Kim Richards ("Escape to Witch Mountain"): From Disney Princess to Reality TV Maven
As a child, Kim Richards was a Disney staple, starring in Escape to Witch Mountain. She was the "it" girl of 70s family films. After a long hiatus from the screen to raise her four children, she made a surprising return to the spotlight in 2010—not as an actress, but as a star of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Her life has reportedly been a journey of public highs and lows since then.
But she remains a fixture in the pop culture zeitgeist, showing that the transition from child star to reality icon is a modern phenomenon.
Kyle Richards ("Little House on the Prairie" & "Halloween"): The Child Actress Turned Television Producer
Like her sister Kim, Kyle Richards was a busy child star, appearing in Little House on the Prairie and the classic horror film Halloween. While she stayed in the industry, her path took a very different turn toward entrepreneurship and production. She became a mainstay of reality television and launched several successful business ventures, including clothing lines and retail stores. She reportedly served as a producer on the show American Woman.
It was a series inspired by her childhood in the 70s. Kyle has successfully leveraged her early fame into a multifaceted business empire.
Melissa Gilbert ("Little House on the Prairie"): Half-Pint’s Journey to Politics and Writing
Melissa Gilbert grew up before our eyes as Laura Ingalls on Little House on the Prairie. After the show ended in 1983, she remained active in the industry but also branched out into leadership roles. She reportedly served two terms as the President of the Screen Actors Guild, advocating for her fellow performers. She also pursued a career in politics, running for Congress in Michigan in 2016.
Today, she is a successful author and lifestyle brand creator, focusing on "modern rustic" living, proving that the values she learned on the "prairie" still resonate in her adult life.
Alison Arngrim ("Little House on the Prairie"): From Nellie Oleson to Comedy and Activism
Everyone loved to hate Nellie Oleson on Little House on the Prairie. Alison Arngrim played the "mean girl" so well that it reportedly made it difficult for her to find other roles initially. However, she took that persona and turned it into a successful career as a stand-up comedian and author. Her memoir, Confessions of a Prairie Bitch, became a best-seller. She also became a dedicated activist for child protection and AIDS awareness.
She has spent her adulthood proving that the "nasty" girl on screen was actually one of the kindest and funniest people in the business.
Danielle Spencer: The "What’s Happening!! " Star Who Became a Vet
Danielle Spencer was the hilarious, "I'm tellin' Mama!" little sister, Dee Thomas, on the 1970s hit What's Happening!!. Despite her success as a comedic actress, she always harbored a different dream. After the show and its 80s sequel, Spencer reportedly left Hollywood to pursue a degree in veterinary medicine. She became a licensed veterinarian, fulfilling a lifelong passion for animal care. Unfortunately, she has dealt with significant health challenges as an adult.
Yet she has continued to practice and advocate for animal welfare, showing that her heart was always in the clinic rather than the studio.
Peter Billingsley ("A Christmas Story"): Ralphie Becomes a Hollywood Power Player
Peter Billingsley will forever be known as the boy who wanted a Red Ryder BB gun in A Christmas Story. While he continued to act in the 80s, his most surprising move was behind the scenes. Billingsley reportedly became a highly successful producer and director. He formed a close professional partnership with Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau, producing hit movies like Iron Man and The Break-Up.
He is now a significant power player in Hollywood, proving that the kid with the glasses had a very keen eye for what makes a blockbuster movie.
Kathy Coleman: From "Land of the Lost" to Inspiring Author
Kathy Coleman played Holly Marshall in the 70s cult classic Land of the Lost. After the show, she reportedly stepped away from the industry to focus on her personal life. For many years, she lived a quiet life outside of the spotlight. In recent years, she has re-emerged as an author, writing about her experiences on the show and her life journey in her autobiography. She reportedly enjoys meeting fans at conventions.
She loves sharing the nostalgic magic of the "sleestaks" and dinosaurs, proving that even a "lost" child star can always find their way home.
Gary Coleman: The "Diff’rent Strokes" Star’s Struggles and Spirit
Gary Coleman was the biggest star on television in the late 70s with his catchphrase, "Whatcha talkin' 'bout, Willis?" His life after the show was reportedly marked by significant financial and legal battles. However, he never lost his fighting spirit. He famously ran for Governor of California in 2003, finishing in 8th place out of 135 candidates. He also worked as a security guard for a time, a move that was often unfairly mocked by the press.
Until his passing in 2010, he remained a symbol of the complicated and often difficult legacy of childhood fame.
Todd Bridges ("Diff'rent Strokes"): From Child Star to Author and Mentor
Todd Bridges played Willis Jackson on Diff'rent Strokes and was a 70s household name. His journey after the show was reportedly very turbulent, but his "where are they now" story is one of total redemption. Bridges became a clean and sober advocate, a director, and a successful author. He wrote a book about his experiences and became a mentor to other actors. He also found a new generation of fans with his role on Everybody Hates Chris.
Today, he is respected as a survivor who uses his platform to warn others about the dangers of the industry.
Helen Hunt ("The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "The Swiss Family Robinson," & "The Bionic Woman"): The 70s Guest Star Who Conquered the Oscars
Many people forget that Helen Hunt was a very busy child star in the 70s, appearing in shows like The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Swiss Family Robinson, and The Bionic Woman. Unlike many who peaked early, Hunt’s career just kept climbing. She transitioned from a TV teen to a sitcom superstar on Mad About You and eventually won an Academy Award for As Good as It Gets.
She is one of the few child stars of that era who managed to achieve the highest level of respect as both an actress and a director in adulthood.
Jodie Foster ("Taxi Driver" & "Freaky Friday"): The Prodigy Who Became a Legend
Jodie Foster was a seasoned pro by the age of 12, starring in Taxi Driver and Freaky Friday in the mid-70s. She reportedly took a break to attend Yale University, proving that her intellect matched her talent. Foster successfully transitioned into one of the most respected adult actresses and directors in history, winning two Academy Awards. She has maintained a remarkably private life while remaining a powerful force in Hollywood.
Her journey from the Coppertone girl to an industry icon is perhaps the most impressive "where are they now" story of her generation.
Shirley Temple: From Curly Top to United States Ambassador
Shirley Temple was arguably the most famous child star in history, saving 20th Century Fox from bankruptcy during the Great Depression. While she attempted a few roles in the 1940s, she reportedly realized her heart was no longer in acting by her early twenties. Surprisingly, she transitioned into a high-stakes career in international diplomacy. She was appointed as a delegate to the United Nations and later served as the U.S. Ambassador to both Ghana and Czechoslovakia.
She allegedly took her roles so seriously that she became a respected figure in the State Department, proving her brilliance extended far beyond the soundstage.
Elizabeth Taylor: The "National Velvet" Star Who Conquered Philanthropy
Elizabeth Taylor became a sensation in the 1940s with National Velvet, but her path was anything but a typical child star’s decline. While she became one of the greatest leading ladies of the Golden Age, her most surprising "second act" was her fierce dedication to humanitarian work. Following the loss of close friends, she reportedly became one of the first major celebrities to lead the fight against the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
She co-founded the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR). By the time of her passing, she was arguably as well-known for her massive fundraising efforts as she was for her two Academy Awards.