10 Child Actors Who Now Work Normal Jobs

While some young actors stay in Hollywood as adults, many choose a different path. They want a more “normal life” away from the stress of fame. These people have given up the red carpet for regular jobs. They show that success can look different. Their stories include being lawyers, doctors, teachers, and entrepreneurs. They all have talents and want a different kind of happiness.

• Many child actors have moved on to successful jobs outside Hollywood.
• Some have chosen careers in law, medicine, education, and other areas.
• They often want a normal life and a slower pace.
• Many keep in touch with their creativity through writing, music, or other interests.
• Their experiences show that you can have a happy life away from fame.

Exploring the New Careers of 10 Former Child Actors

It’s interesting to see what happens to young stars after they leave the spotlight. Many former child actors often choose to work in different areas. These changes show us their wide-ranging dreams and talents.

The ten actors listed below, known from popular shows and movies, show that a happy life after being a child star doesn’t mean staying in the entertainment world. They have found “normal jobs” and have created success and purpose away from showbiz. Their stories inspire us, showing that it’s always a good time to explore new paths and uncover hidden interests.

1. Jeff Cohen: From “The Goonies” to Lawyer

Jeff Cohen is famous for playing Chunk in the 1985 movie “The Goonies.” He took a different path in his career after his early success in Hollywood.

He graduated from Berkeley with a business degree and later got his law degree from UCLA.

Now, he is a successful entertainment lawyer in Beverly Hills. He co-founded the law firm Cohen & Gardner. Interestingly, he negotiated the deal for his former “Goonies” co-star Ke Huy Quan’s role in the award-winning film “Everything Everywhere All at Once.”

2. Mara Wilson: “Matilda” Star Turned Writer

Mara Wilson is well-loved for her roles in movies like “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Miracle on 34th Street,” and “Matilda.” She chose to leave behind the pressure of being a child actor. Mara has talked openly about the challenges of early fame, especially after her mother passed away when she was young.

This tough time made her focus on her own well-being and try different paths for her creativity.

Mara found her true passion in writing. She is now a successful author. She has written a memoir, essays, and articles that often look back on her life as a child actor and support mental health awareness.

3. Danny Lloyd: The “Shining” Actor Who Became a Professor

Danny Lloyd played Danny Torrance in the scary movie “The Shining” with the creepy Grady twins. After his time in Hollywood, he chose a different path. Unlike many child stars, Danny did not find a lasting love for acting.

Instead, he went into academia.

Now, Danny is a well-respected biology professor in Kentucky. He has mentioned that he rarely talks about his acting career with his students. He likes to focus on science and education instead.

4. Charlie Korsmo: Child Star to Law Professor

Charlie Korsmo, famous for his parts in movies like “Dick Tracy” and “Hook,” loved learning from a young age. After his time as a child actor, Korsmo decided to concentrate on his studies. He earned a physics degree from MIT, showing how bright he is. But Korsmo didn’t stop there.

He then got a law degree from Yale University, broadening his knowledge even more.

Now, Korsmo works as a law professor. He brings his rich experience and unique background to his classes. His path from child actor to legal scholar shows his love for learning and curiosity.

5. Jennifer Stone: “Wizards of Waverly Place” to Nursing

Jennifer Stone, known for playing Harper Finkle on the Disney Channel show “Wizards of Waverly Place,” opted for a career focused on helping others. After “Wizards of Waverly Place,” she acted in a few more projects. However, she was drawn to a different path that felt more fulfilling.

This inspiration led her to nursing.

Stone finished nursing school in 2019. She quickly began working on the front lines during the tough times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her choice to work in healthcare shows her commitment to serving others and her wish to make a real difference in people’s lives.

6. Ross Bagley: “Fresh Prince” Alum to Realtor

Ross Bagley is best known for playing Nicky Banks on the popular show “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” He also played Buckwheat in “The Little Rascals” and appeared in “Independence Day” with his old co-star, Will Smith.

But he chose to leave acting to follow other interests.

Now, Bagley is doing well as a realtor. He enjoys helping people find their dream homes. He shows a lot of care and pays attention to details in his new job.

7. Lisa Jakub: From “Mrs. Doubtfire” to Author and Yoga Instructor

Lisa Jakub, famous for playing Lydia Hillard in “Mrs. Doubtfire” with Robin Williams, chose a new path after her acting career. She began writing and became a published author.

Jakub’s books mostly talk about self-discovery, mindfulness, and dealing with life’s ups and downs. They show her own journey of personal growth.

Besides writing, Jakub is also a certified yoga instructor. She discovered her love for yoga and uses it to boost both physical and mental health.

8. Josh Saviano: “The Wonder Years” to Corporate Lawyer

Josh Saviano, known for playing Paul Pfeiffer on “The Wonder Years,” chose a different path after the show. He shifted his focus to a career in law.

He went to Yale University and later worked as a corporate lawyer in New York.

In his legal career, Saviano used his sharp mind to help his clients in the challenging area of corporate law.

9. Clayton Snyder: “Lizzie McGuire” to Real Estate Agent

Clayton Snyder is well-known for playing Ethan Craft on the popular Disney Channel show “Lizzie McGuire.” He chose a different path for his career. While he still acts in some projects, Snyder found an interest in real estate.

He got his real estate license and now assists clients with buying and selling homes.

His career change shows that you can follow more than one passion and succeed outside the entertainment world.

10. Danielle Spencer: “What’s Happening!!” Star to Veterinarian

Danielle Spencer, famous for playing Dee Thomas on the show “What’s Happening!!”, has always loved animals. While she was on the show, she started working towards a career in veterinary medicine.

Spencer graduated from the University of California, Davis, with a degree in veterinary medicine.

Her strong commitment to animals took her to a rewarding career. Spencer’s story shows the strong connection between people and animals. It also highlights the different paths that former child actors, like her, can take.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the changes these former child actors made in their careers show how important it is to adapt and follow personal passions beyond fame. They have gone into law, education, healthcare, and business. Their journeys show that they can be strong and grow in many areas. This reminds us that careers don’t always follow a straight path. Success can appear in surprising ways. These people have created new paths for themselves. They prove that life after being famous as a child can be meaningful in different ways. Their stories inspire us to embrace change and pursue our true calling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What drives child actors to switch careers?

Many child actors, especially those who become famous young, often discover that they really enjoy things outside of acting. They may want a more normal life with regular jobs. They crave the independence and privacy that is hard to find in the spotlight.

How do child actors balance education with their acting careers?

Balancing school and acting jobs needs good time management. Many child actors have tutors on set or go to special schools made for their busy schedules. This way, they can get a good education while also working in their acting careers.

Are there any child actors who returned to Hollywood after pursuing a different career?

Yes, some child actors go back to Hollywood after trying out other jobs. This usually happens after they have time to look at different areas, learn new ideas, and find their love for acting again with a fresh goal.

What support systems are in place for child actors transitioning to normal jobs?

Support systems for child actors moving to normal jobs can be very different. Some actors lean on family and friends. Others look for help from career counselors or groups that focus on guiding former child stars in life after acting.