Remember These 90s Icons? Discover Their Surprising New Lives Away from Fame
20 stars from the '90s who turned their backs on Hollywood, embracing new careers and personal passions.
In an era filled with denim jackets, boy bands, and iconic TV shows, the 1990s delivered a slew of celebrities who defined a generation. But not all of these stars remained under the bright lights of Hollywood. Instead, many chose paths of their own, leading to fulfilling and fascinating careers outside the entertainment industry. According to Yardbarker, here are 20 such iconic figures from the ‘90s who embarked on new adventures.
From Prime Time to Ivy Halls
Jonathan Taylor Thomas, the teen heartthrob of Home Improvement, turned heads when he decided to leave Hollywood for academia. Ditching the spotlight, Thomas pursued higher education at esteemed institutions like Columbia and Harvard. His departure from the entertainment circle took fans by surprise but also symbolized the quest for personal growth many celebrities yearn for.
Michael C. Maronna may be remembered as “Big Pete” from The Adventures of Pete & Pete, yet he found his calling behind the camera, contributing his skills on film sets as a crew member. Similarly, Danny Tamberelli, the “Little Pete,” pivoted to podcasting, exploring creative avenues without the glare of cameras.
Past the Neon Runways
Yasmeen Ghauri’s presence on the runway was impossible to ignore during the ‘90s. A stunning figure in fashion, Ghauri decided on a life fillled with advocacy rather than catwalks after starting her family. Her departure underscored a shift from glamorous appearances to meaningful initiatives, a change echoed by many former stars.
In a similar vein, Phoebe Cates transitioned out of acting to dedicate herself to her family, eventually developing her entrepreneurial streak in New York City.
From Scripts to Books
Lisa Jakub, beloved for her role in Mrs. Doubtfire, walked away from acting to put pen to paper. Her memoir, You Look Like That Girl: A Child Actor Stops Pretending and Finally Grows Up, delves into the challenges of carving a new identity beyond the screen.
Mara Wilson, a familiar face from Matilda, decided to pursue writing after the rejections Hollywood dealt. Despite moving away from acting, her contributions in writing and voice acting maintain her creative flair.
Transitioning Beyond the Screen
Rick Moranis and Bridget Fonda both epitomized Hollywood’s golden era. Yet, Moranis gracefully stepped back to focus on family, while Fonda retreated from acting following an unexpected car crash, opting for privacy and a quieter existence.
Charlie Korsmo and Josh Saviano pursued law, swapping scripts for statutes, and embodying a determined leap from one influential sphere to another.
While attentive fans may remember their roles vividly, these stars have woven new stories of authenticity and inspiration beyond the sound stages and red carpets. Their choices highlight the courage to pivot, prioritize personal values, and rediscover personal happiness in the unlikeliest of places, ultimately proving that life in Hollywood is just a chapter in their ever-evolving narratives.
