These Celebrities Left Hollywood For Normal Jobs

Making it in Hollywood is a dream for many and one that only a select few get the chance to fulfill. Some people become stars after breakout roles while very young, even as child actors, leading to years of success in show business. But that’s not always the case.

Unfortunately, all too often, we’ve seen many of the past’s brightest stars leave the limelight and go into downward spirals. One day they’re on screens all over on top of the world, and the next, they’re crashing hard back down to Earth, usually very publicly. We know you’ll recognize some of these familiar faces whose personal lives took a turn for the worse…

Erik Estrada – Reserve Police Deputy

Erik Estrada was born in the neighborhood of East Harlem in New York City. His mother, Carmen, worked as a seamstress. From a young age, Estrada wanted to become an actor, and his breakthrough came with his role in the 1970 film “The Cross and the Switchblade.”

This beloved series became a flagship show on NBC, which is owned by Comcast. Currently, Estrada, an actor and former activist, serves as a reserve deputy in the state of Idaho. His most prominent acting role is portraying Officer Frank Poncherello, affectionately known as “Ponch,” in the police procedural drama series CHiPs.

Tiffany – Clothing Store Owner

Tiffany, a prominent figure in the music scene of the 1980s, gained fame as a teenage singing sensation, primarily recognized for her hit track “I Think We’re Alone Now.” In addition to this, Tiffany covered The Beatles’ classic “I Saw Her Standing There,” reimagining the lyrics as “I Saw Him Standing There.”

Tiffany’s hit song “I Think We’re Alone Now” reached number one on the Billboard charts and gained popularity from its use in a vintage Apple ad. While still involved in music, Tiffany now primarily manages her own small clothing store. She also regularly performs at coffee shops and festivals, using her 1980s fame to promote her clothing business.

Freddie Prinze Jr. – Chef

Freddie Prinze Jr. gained fame through his roles in movies such as “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” where he crossed paths with his future spouse, the actress Sarah Michelle Gellar. Despite his enduring connection to the entertainment industry, Prinze Jr. has ventured into a different role behind the scenes, transitioning to a producer’s role for WWE.

His initial involvement with WWE spanned from 2008 to 2009. During this period, he shared his insights on wrestling matches through blogging and contributed content to WWE’s media channels. Subsequently, Freddie Prinze Jr. embarked on a completely new endeavor, co-founding the culinary enterprise Foodstirs alongside his wife.

Charlie Korsmo – Law Professor

Charlie Korsmo, once a renowned child actor known for his role in the Disney comedy “What About Bob?”, made a significant career shift toward academia. Although he made occasional appearances in films, his most recent being the 1998 movie “Can’t Hardly Wait,” he decided to leave his Disney days behind.

Korsmo pursued higher education, earning his undergraduate degree in physics from MIT in 2000 and his J.D. from Yale Law School six years later. He has worked at the EPA and in politics. Currently, Charlie Korsmo is a law professor at Case Western Reserve, specializing in corporations and corporate finance law.

Geena Davis – Documentarian

Geena Davis, known for her acting and modeling, started her career in 1982 with the film “Tootsie.” Her breakthrough came with the thriller “The Fly,” and she gained international fame for her role in “Beetlejuice.” Despite a slowdown in her career during the 1990s, Davis continued acting and briefly hosted “The Geena Davis Show,” produced by Disney.

After leaving Disney, Davis turned her attention to directing and business. She founded The Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, which aims to improve the portrayal of women in the media industry. In 2018, Davis used her business connections to finance the documentary “This Changes Everything.”

Angus T. Jones – Management at a Media Company

Angus T. Jones gained fame for his role on the TV show “Two and a Half Men.” He started his acting career at age five in the film “Simpatico.” He also appeared in movies like “The Rookie,” “George of the Jungle 2,” “Bringing Down the House,” “See Spot Run,” and “The Christmas Blessing.”

After retiring from acting, Jones moved into the private sector. Despite his departure from the screen, his works, including “Two and a Half Men,” can still be streamed on platforms like Amazon and Hulu. He currently works at Tonite, a multimedia company that finances and produces various communication services.

Macaulay Culkin – Publisher

As a child, Macaulay Culkin achieved widespread fame through his role in the Home Alone series. In 1991, he further solidified his acting career by starring in the coming-of-age film “My Girl.” Following these successes, he appeared in The Good Son in 1993 and “Getting Even with Dad” a year later. During the peak of his career, he held the distinction of being one of the most accomplished child actors in the history of cinema.

Today, Culkin is the owner and operator of the satirical website known as Bunny Ears. Through this platform, he creates content and engages in cross-promotions, including several noteworthy collaborations with RedLetterMedia. In addition, he has gained a dedicated following on Twitter, where he is celebrated for his clever and humorous tweets.

Josh Saviano – Lawyer

Josh Saviano, a New York native, transitioned from acting to a career in law. He is known for playing Paul in the sitcom “The Wonder Years” from 1988 to 1993. After the show ended, Saviano took a break from acting, but later appeared as a lawyer in a few episodes of “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.”

After NBC, Saviano went to Yale University, majoring in political science. He was president of the Sigma Nu fraternity. After graduating, he worked as a paralegal and later earned a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Cardozo School of Law. In 2000, he joined a law firm and eventually started his own practice fifteen years later.

Taran Noah Smith – Company Owner and Tech Manager

Taran Noah Smith played Mark in the sitcom “Home Improvement,” one of the most successful TV shows of the nineties. However, Smith retired from acting after the show ended, citing a loss of interest. After retiring from acting, Smith started his own company called Playfood, which focused on making non-dairy cheese products. However, Playfood did not become successful right away and is not currently sold in popular stores like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s.

Besides being an entrepreneur, Smith also opened a vegan restaurant with the same name. He has now shifted to the tech industry, working as a tech manager for Community Submersibles, an organization involved in submarine piloting and educational projects. This shows Smith’s diverse interests and career transitions.

Geoffrey Owens – Company Director

Geoffrey Owens, famous for “The Cosby Show,” appeared in TV shows like “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” “That’s So Raven,” “Lucifer,” and others. In 2018, he gained attention when photos of him working as a cashier at Trader Joe’s were published.

Owens received public support for taking a job at a grocery store, despite competition with Whole Foods. This attention led to new acting opportunities, including a role in a Tyler Perry project. Today, Geoffrey Owens is the artistic director of the Brooklyn Shakespeare Company, which he co-founded.

Gene Hackman – Novelist

After a successful acting career, Gene Hackman has retired from cinema and is now a novelist. At the age of ninety, he received numerous awards during his six-decade journey in the entertainment industry, starting in 1956. He took a break in 2004 but returned in 2016.

Bidding farewell to his acting career in 2017, Hackman now focuses on writing novels. His portfolio includes three historical fiction novels, a Western tale, and a gripping police thriller. His most recent publication is the thriller masterpiece, “Pursuit,” released in 2013. It has received a commendable 4/5-star rating on Amazon, showcasing Hackman’s storytelling skills. His writing journey began with his debut novel, “Wake of the Perdido Star,” in 1999.

George Foreman – Ringside Boxing Analyst

Former boxer George Foreman achieved significant success in the 1960s and 1970s. His boxing career came to a close in 1977 after a defeat at the hands of Jimmy Young. Following a profound “spiritual awakening,” Foreman was ordained as a Christian minister.

In a surprising turn of events in 1994, at 45, he made a remarkable return to the boxing ring. George Foreman, at an advanced age, knocked out Michael Moorer to become the oldest heavyweight boxing champion in history. He also holds the patent for the Foreman grill and works as a ringside analyst for HBO.

Mara Wilson – Writer and Podcaster

Mara Wilson, born in 1987, gained fame as a child actress in movies like “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” “Matilda,” and “Thomas and the Magic Railroad.” However, she retired from acting in 2000.

Today, Mara Wilson has transitioned her career into writing and podcasting, earning a devoted following on Twitter. She penned a play titled “Sheeple” for the New York International Fringe Festival, but her primary focus has shifted toward novel writing. In 2016, she released her book, “Where Am I Now?,” which delves into her experiences with childhood fame.

Sarah Michelle Gellar – Cookbook Writer and Business Owner

Sarah Michelle Gellar started her entertainment career at the age of four with her first film appearance in “Invasion of Privacy” (1980s). Her breakthrough role was Kendall in the soap opera “All My Children,” which led to her iconic portrayal of Buffy in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”

In addition to acting, Gellar has also started her own lifestyle brand, Foodstirs, which focuses on cooking. She launched the brand in 2015 with her debut cookbook, which became a best-seller. Foodstirs can be found in popular retailers like Whole Foods and Giant Eagle.

Phoebe Cates – Clothing Store Owner

Phoebe Cates, renowned for her roles in iconic 1980s films such as “Gremlins” and “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” openly admitted in a later interview that her passion for acting and the entertainment industry was lacking. She candidly expressed that her motivation for pursuing acting was purely financial.

Phoebe Cates, true to her feelings, now owns and runs her own clothing store, “Blue Tree,” on Madison Avenue in New York City. Notably, Blue Tree is a privately owned business, setting it apart from corporate giants like Levi Strauss.

Jeff Cohen – Lawyer

Jeff Cohen, born in Los Angeles, had a successful acting career in the 1980s and 1990s, notably for his role as Chunk in Steven Spielberg’s “The Goonies.” However, he retired in 1991 to focus on higher education. In 2000, Cohen obtained his JD from the UCLA School of Law. Transitioning into the legal field, Cohen became an entertainment attorney in Los Angeles.

In 2002, he started his own law firm, Cohen & Gardner, a major milestone in his career. His outstanding accomplishments caught the attention of Variety and Hollywood Reporter in 2008, where he was acknowledged as a distinguished “Top Executive” in Hollywood. Jeff Cohen, a lawyer and author, has written a book called “The Dealmaker’s Ten Commandments,” available on Amazon for those interested in his insights and expertise.

Peter Ostrum – Veterinarian

Peter Ostrum’s claim to fame came through a singular significant role, portraying the character of Charlie in the iconic film “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory,” released in 1971. At the tender age of twelve, talent scouts discovered him, leading to his selection for this memorable role. However, upon the movie’s conclusion, he made a deliberate choice not to commit to a three-movie contract, opting to remain reticent about his association with the film.

Rather than pursuing a career in acting, Ostrum followed a different path rooted in his lifelong passion for animals. His fascination with horses from a young age ultimately steered him toward veterinary studies. Graduating from Cornell University with a veterinary degree, he established himself as a dedicated practitioner specializing in large animals, serving in Lowville, New York. Ostrum’s on-screen appearances have remained sparse, with a solitary cameo documented in the YouTube-available documentary titled “Role Model: Gene Wilder.”

Julia Stiles – Philanthropist

During the late 1990s and early 2000s, Julia Stiles rose to prominence as a teenage actress, featuring in popular films such as “Save the Last Dance” and “10 Things I Hate About You.” However, after some time, she deliberately took a step back from the film industry to concentrate on her charitable endeavors.

Rather than pursuing roles in front of the camera, she dedicated her efforts to collaborating closely with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and Amnesty International. Following several years of working in a non-entertainment capacity, she made her return to the screen in the TV series “Riviera” in 2017.

Bridget Fonda – Unknown

Bridget Fonda comes from a family of actors and effortlessly entered the entertainment industry. She had a successful career in well-known movies like “Single White Female” and “It Could Happen To You.” However, in 2002, Fonda decided to retire from acting, despite her accomplishments.

Fonda married Danny Elfman, a well-known composer and long-time collaborator of filmmaker Tim Burton, coinciding with her departure from acting. This played a key role in her decision to step away from the public eye. Currently, there is limited information available about Bridget Fonda’s current activities. In early 2022, she surprised fans with her return after a 12-year absence, showing a noticeable transformation.

Jeri Ryan – Occasionally Acting, Cooking

Star Trek: Voyager initially struggled with ratings. To boost viewership, a new character, 7of9, was introduced and became a fan-favorite. Jeri Ryan quickly gained a dedicated following and continued to play her role in different parts of the franchise.

Besides acting, Ryan has diversified her professional pursuits. She owned a restaurant called Ortolan in Los Angeles and occasionally works as a chef in places like The House, showcasing her culinary talents.

Jonathan Taylor Thomas – Director

Jonathan Taylor Thomas gained fame for his roles in “Home Improvement” and as the voice of Simba in “The Lion King” (1994) and Pinocchio in “The Adventures of Pinocchio” (1996). He took a break from the entertainment industry in 2006 but made a brief comeback from 2013 to 2016.

After his acting career, Jonathan Taylor Thomas pursued higher education. He completed high school in California in 2000 and studied in Scotland as part of his academic journey at Harvard University. He eventually graduated with a General Studies degree from Columbia University. Today, he is a director but also makes occasional guest appearances on the FOX show “Last Man Standing.”

Jack Gleeson – Theater Owner

Jack Gleeson, like Peter Ostrum, became famous for his role as Joffrey in “Game of Thrones” (2011-2014). However, in 2014, he quit acting to pursue academics. After leaving HBO, Gleeson attended Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, where he furthered his education. He also started his own theater company called “Collapsing Horse” in Dublin.

This company was founded while he was at Trinity, with Gleeson and his co-owners being part of the DU Players group. Despite retiring from acting, he has made occasional appearances on-screen, indicating that his future in the entertainment industry is still interesting. Stay tuned for his next moves.

Andrew Shue – Website Owner

Born in Delaware, Andrew Shue pursued his education at Dartmouth College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. His notable financial success can be attributed to his prominent role in the popular soap opera, “Melrose Place,” where he portrayed the character Billy Campbell from 1992 to 1999.

After retiring from acting on the FOX series, Shue focused on serving on the board of directors for his foundation, “Do Something.” This nonprofit organization aims to involve young people in community activism. Currently, Shue owns and runs CafeMom, a social networking platform for mothers.

Karyn Parsons – Writer

Karyn Parsons, recognized as both an actress and comedian, gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Hilary Banks, the eldest daughter in the family, in the television series “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” from 1990 to 1996. In addition to her television work, she starred alongside Damon Wayans in the 1995 film “Major Payne.”

Parsons now focuses on writing. She has appeared in films, such as “The Ladies Man” by SNL Studios, but her primary pursuit is writing. She created “Sweet Blackberry,” an animated series that celebrates unsung Black heroes. She also wrote a middle-school novel called “How High the Moon,” inspired by her mother’s upbringing in the South.

MC Hammer – Preacher

MC Hammer accumulated a substantial fortune during his music career, yet he had a penchant for lavish spending. Despite declaring bankruptcy in the 1990s, he successfully made a comeback and remains a pivotal figure in the evolution of the pop-rap genre.

Following his retirement from music, he became a preacher. In the late 1990s, he had his own TV show called “MC Hammer and Friends” on the Trinity Broadcast Network. He also tried reality TV with “Hammertime” in 2009. Although he occasionally releases new music, his main focus is preaching.

Rick Moranis – Stay-At-Home Dad

In the 1980s, Rick Moranis achieved comedy greatness through his work on “Second City Television” and starred in iconic films like “Ghostbusters,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids,” and “Parenthood.” However, Moranis retired from the entertainment industry to be a stay-at-home dad, focusing on raising his children.

Although he mentioned the chance of returning to Hollywood in the future, even two “Ghostbusters” reboots couldn’t persuade him to come back to the limelight. Until the unexpected events of 2020, Rick Moranis surprised everyone by signing on for a sequel to “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids,” reprising his role as Wayne Szalinski.

Lisa and Louise Burns – Lawyer and Scientist

Lisa and Louise Burns gained fame as the unsettling twins in Stephen King’s “The Shining” movie adaptation. The film, true to King’s style, explores psychological horror. Jack Nicholson plays Jack Torrance, a struggling writer who takes a job at a haunted hotel in the Colorado Rockies.

After their successful acting careers, the Burns sisters, known as “The Shining Twins” on Twitter, decided to leave Hollywood. They felt excluded by the industry and chose different paths. Lisa became a lawyer and Louise pursued research science. However, they still make appearances at horror conventions for fans to enjoy their iconic film moments.

Jennie Garth – Business Owner

Jennie Garth achieved success in acting through her roles in “Beverly Hills, 90210” (1990-2000) and “What I Like About You” (2002-2006). She also had her own reality TV show, “Jennie Garth: A Little Bit Country”, on CMT.

Apart from her CMT roles, Garth also pursued modeling in print, ads, and infomercials. In 2017, she founded MomGiftBox.com, an online subscription service for mothers offering lifestyle and pampering products. A portion of the proceeds from these boxes goes to charitable causes. Additionally, she has collaborated with Dune Jewelry on a fashion line.

Keith Thibodeaux – Company Executive Director

“I Love Lucy” owes much of its charm to the inclusion of Little Ricky, a character brought to life by the five-year-old Keith Thibodeaux. His adorable presence added an extra layer of appeal to Lucille Ball’s beloved show. Following his stint on the series, Thibodeaux transitioned into the music industry and found success as a member of the band David and the Giants.

In the 1970s, Thibodeaux faced personal challenges but ultimately discovered solace and renewal through his embrace of Christianity. Today, he holds the position of Executive Director at “Ballet Magnificat!”, an international dance company founded by his wife, Kathy Denton, in 1986. Together, they continue to contribute to the world of performing arts and dance.

Jay North – Correctional Officer

Dennis the Menace started as a live-action troublemaker in the 1960s. Jay North, a young actor, got the main role in the CBS sitcom, which was a big step in his career. However, like other child actors, North found the entertainment industry and his treatment on set difficult.

After the television show ended, North continued to pursue acting but faced limited opportunities. He served in the Navy and tried to revive his acting career with only modest success. Now retired, North has transitioned to a new role as a correctional officer in Florida’s juvenile justice system.

Angela Cartwright – Photographer

Angela Cartwright gained fame after her role as one of the von Trapp children in the 1965 musical “The Sound of Music.” She also appeared on television, playing Linda Williams on “The Danny Thomas Show” and gaining recognition as Penny in “Lost in Space.”

In 1976, after marrying Steve Guillon, Cartwright transitioned behind the camera, establishing a thriving photography business in Studio City, Los Angeles. Her venture has proven successful, with Cartwright now involved in both commercial and art photography, serving a diverse range of clients, from large corporations to individuals who appreciate her creative vision.

Jerry Mathers – Commercial Loan Officer

Sioux City native Jerry Mathers began his professional career at the age of two. Despite his lack of initial interest in the entertainment industry, Mathers auditioned for the role of Beaver Cleaver. Surprisingly, he was hired on the spot, propelling him to stardom.

In his teenage years, Mathers enlisted in the U.S. Air Force before becoming a commercial loan officer. By 1978, he retired from the corporate world. However, he continued to make guest appearances and promote the classic show “Leave It To Beaver” on the MeTV channel. Jerry Mathers, now in his 70s, remains a testament to his early career success.

Lauren Chapin – Formerly A Dog Groomer (Retired)

Lauren Chapin, famous for her role in the 1954 show “Father Knows Best,” had a difficult childhood despite portraying a perfect family life on television. In her autobiography, she revealed her struggles. After the show ended, finding work became a major challenge for her.

By 1981, Chapin had taken on multiple jobs, including as an air hostess and a dog groomer, to make ends meet. Recently, she has been running live adaptations of “Father Knows Best,” performing at events and on cruises. She also has an evangelist license as a backup. Lauren Chapin’s life has had unexpected turns, from her difficult past to her varied career choices and current role as a live performer.

Quinn Cummings – Writer and Businesswoman

Quinn Cummings, known for her Oscar nomination in “The Goodbye Girl,” transitioned from acting to business in 1991. She started HipHugger, a baby sling company, and later sold it in 2006.

Today, Quinn Cummings primarily earns her livelihood as a writer. She has authored a memoir titled “Notes From The Underwire,” along with works like “The Year of Living Dangerously” and a collection of essays titled “Pet Sounds.” Her most recent book was published in 2013, marking her continued journey as a writer and storyteller.

Danny Bonaduce – Radio Personality

“The Partridge Family” was a beloved television show during the 1970s, with the charming David Cassidy captivating audiences with his teen heart-throb status. However, it was Danny Bonaduce’s portrayal of the character Danny that consistently brought the most laughter to viewers.

In the following years, Danny Bonaduce pursued different ventures in the entertainment industry. He entered reality TV with his VH1 show, released an album, tried professional wrestling, and gained fame as a radio personality. Bonaduce is also an ordained minister, showcasing his diverse talents. He also took part in charity boxing matches against notable opponents like Donny Osmond and Robert Shapiro, adding to his dynamic career.

Lisa Loring – Makeup Artist

In the 1960s, besides The Munsters, another eerie and eccentric family was captivating television audiences: The Addams Family. While Christina Ricci is a familiar face as Wednesday Addams to contemporary viewers, it’s important to note that the role initially belonged to Lisa Loring.

Today, Lisa Loring has transitioned into a career as a makeup artist, working in both the film industry and the private sector through her own small business. Regrettably for her devoted fans, Loring has chosen to keep a considerable distance from the public eye in recent years, leading a more private life away from the spotlight.

Jon Gosselin – DJ and Prep Cook

Jon Gosselin, initially propelled into the spotlight alongside his wife, Kate Gosselin, achieved celebrity status through their popular reality show, Jon & Kate Plus 8. The series provided a glimpse into their unique family dynamic, as they navigated the challenges of raising sextuplets and a pair of twins.

As their show grew, fame strained their relationship and hindered their ability to lead normal lives. This led to Jon and Kate’s separation, and the show was rebranded as Kate Plus 8. Since leaving the show, Jon has pursued DJ’ing as a career.

Mark Ruffalo – Environmentalist Activist

Mark Ruffalo’s career started in the late 80s, gaining fame as an actor in successful films. Recently, he has shifted towards environmental activism, inspired by his role in ‘Dark Waters,’ where he raised awareness about the PFAS public health crisis.

In 2011, Ruffalo established Water Defense, a New York-based non-profit organization. Its main goal is to advocate against hydraulic fracturing in New York, aiming to protect clean water sources from contamination and industrial degradation. It works towards safeguarding our waterways and drinking water. Ruffalo’s dedication to this cause reflects his commitment to the environment and public health.

Mike Vitar – Firefighter

“The Sandlot” is a beloved and heartwarming film that revolves around a group of young, baseball-loving children. In the 1993 movie, Mike Vitar portrayed the character Benny, but he later decided to step away from his acting career, leaving the entertainment industry on a positive note.

After leaving Hollywood, Vitar took EMT courses to become skilled in emergency medical care. He used this knowledge to join the Los Angeles Fire Department in 2002. In his current role, Vitar saves lives and makes a meaningful contribution to his community.

Angelina Pivarnick – EMT

Angelina Pivarnick, a former cast member of “Jersey Shore”, has transitioned into a life of service, showing there is more to her than meets the eye. Currently, Angelina is an EMT with the Staten Island Fire Department.

She is dedicated to providing essential assistance to the community, responding to emergencies as they arise. She recently got married and is excited to start a family. This transition highlights Angelina Pivarnick’s selflessness and dedication to her career as an EMT and journey into motherhood.

Kevin Jonas – Social Media-Marketing Business Owner

From an external perspective, Kevin Jonas may appear to grapple with middle-child syndrome, positioned between his accomplished brothers Joe and Nick. Nevertheless, the middle Jo Bro appears to be thriving.

After their Disney Channel program ended and their boy band disbanded, the Jonas Brothers went on separate journeys. Kevin got married, settled in the suburbs of New Jersey, and built a successful career in marketing. Even though the band has reunited, Kevin still focuses on his own entrepreneurial pursuits.

Ali MacGraw – Author and Activist

Ali McGraw, known for her role in “Love Story,” transitioned from acting to embrace yoga. Her dedication to yoga exemplified her commitment to personal well-being and contributed to a cultural shift towards mindfulness and physical wellness.

After her acting career, McGraw became an activist for animal welfare. She appeared in PETA ads and supported initiatives to raise awareness about ethical treatment of animals. McGraw’s dedication to this cause earned her recognition and praise, leaving a lasting impact beyond her film career.

Dylan Sprouse – Brewery Owner and Operator

Dylan Sprouse’s early success catapulted him into the limelight as he starred alongside his twin brother, Cole, in a Disney Channel series. The show revolved around two mischievous brothers residing in an upscale hotel, chronicling their misadventures and escapades.

After his time in the entertainment industry, Dylan Sprouse pursued higher education at New York University’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study. Along this academic journey, he discovered a passion for mead brewing. Unlike beer, mead is made from honey instead of grains like barley. Sprouse established a mead brewery in Brooklyn to revive interest in this ancient beverage and make it popular again.

Jamie Walters – EMT and Firefighter

Jamie Walters gained fame on the TV show “Beverly Hills, 90210”, created by the same person as “Sex and the City”. He played Ray Pruit from seasons 4 to 7, starting as a recurring character and becoming a regular cast member.

After leaving the show, Walters briefly pursued a career in country music. However, he decided to shift gears and dedicate himself to helping others. He became an EMT and joined the Los Angeles Fire Department as a firefighter, marking a significant change in his professional journey.

Jimmie Walker – Radio Host

Jimmie Walker’s notable achievements include winning two Golden Globes for his portrayal of J.J. Evans, the eldest son of the Evans family in the CBS series Good Times. Perhaps even more iconic is his creation of the enduring catchphrase, “Dy-n-omite!” which remains widely quoted to this day.

Hailing from Brooklyn, this talented star later expanded his career into the realm of radio, serving as a host on various stations including WHIO, WOAI, WLS, and KKAR. In 2012, Walker penned his autobiography, titled “Dyn-o-mite! Good Times, Bad Times, Out Times – A Memoir.” Currently, he continues to captivate audiences with his stand-up comedy routine as he tours the country.

Vanilla Ice – Jet Ski Racer

In 1989, Vanilla Ice became a music sensation with his hit song “Ice Ice Baby.” This groundbreaking track topped the Billboard charts, making it the first hip-hop single to achieve such success and introducing the genre to a wider audience. The song’s popularity not only established Vanilla Ice as a cultural icon but also influenced the future of rap music.

Today, Vanilla Ice has moved on from the music industry and now focuses on water sports as a world-class jet ski racer. While he occasionally appears on television retrospectives, his career as a professional athlete is now his main priority, showcasing his remarkable transformation from a music sensation to a renowned sportsman.

Nikki Blonsky – Cosmetologist

In 2007, a young Nikki Blonsky emerged from anonymity and achieved global fame when she secured the lead role in “Hairspray.” Sharing the screen with Oscar-winning actor John Travolta, Blonsky’s performance received widespread acclaim, and many anticipated her rapid ascent to becoming a permanent fixture in Hollywood’s constellation of talents.

However, fate had different plans in store. Today, Blonsky has found her calling as a cosmetologist, occasionally making appearances in sitcoms. While the possibility of her once again dominating a major blockbuster remains open, Blonsky appears content for the time being, preferring to work behind the scenes in the realm of hair and makeup.

Danielle Fishel – Works in Health Products

After “Boy Meets World” ended, Danielle Fishel, who played Topanga, had a varied career. She tried different shows and fashion journalism, but eventually ended up with a regular job at Bloomingdale’s.

In more recent times, Danielle Fishel has discovered a newfound passion that has proven to be both fulfilling and profitable: health products. Notably, she has launched her own line of vegan hair products, aptly named Be Free. This venture aligns perfectly with her iconic portrayal of Topanga, known for her vibrant and flowing hair.

Jonathan Bennett – Spin Instructor

The heartthrob who stole the scene in Mean Girls enjoyed a string of supporting roles in the years that trailed the film’s triumphant release. While he left an indelible mark on the hearts of Millennial moviegoers, his acting career has noticeably receded into the background in recent times.

Yet, for those who still long to see the former teen idol, Bennett now works as a spin instructor in Los Angeles. In this role, he may be helping other famous people shape their bodies, all in the pursuit of fleeting fame. And so, the cycle continues endlessly.

Danielle Spencer – Veterinarian

Danielle Spencer’s entertainment career started at 13 with the lead role in ABC’s “What’s Happening!!”. Sadly, her stepfather, a major influence in her life, died in a car accident, leaving Danielle hospitalized and facing a difficult period.

After her time on “What’s Happening!!”, Danielle Spencer honored her late stepfather’s memory by studying veterinary medicine. She fulfilled her dream by establishing her own veterinary practice in California, making a positive impact on animals and their owners.