Stars Who Left Hollywood to Become Teachers, Nurses, or Small Business Owners

Many former Hollywood stars have chosen to leave the entertainment world for more conventional careers. While fame can be exciting, some discover they’re more passionate about giving back to their communities or starting their own businesses. These actors and actresses have successfully moved from filming movies to roles like teaching, nursing, and entrepreneurship. Their experiences show that true happiness often comes from a life lived outside the spotlight.

Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz left acting to concentrate on her personal life and new business projects. She created Avaline, an organic wine company that prioritizes clear labeling and environmentally friendly farming practices. Diaz spent years perfecting the wine to meet her strict quality standards. She’s said she finds running a business more rewarding than acting and continues to oversee her company while enjoying a more private life.

Phoebe Cates

Phoebe Cates was a popular actress in the 1980s, but she later chose to focus on her family and business ventures. She opened Blue Tree, an upscale boutique on Madison Avenue in New York City, offering clothing, jewelry, home goods, and toys. Cates is known for personally managing the store and selecting items for her customers. This marked a big change from her acting career, including films like ‘Fast Times at Ridgemont High,’ to owning and running a retail business.

Michael Schoeffling

I’ll always remember Michael Schoeffling as Jake Ryan from ‘Sixteen Candles’ – he was such a dream! What a lot of people don’t know is that he walked away from acting pretty quickly after that. He moved to Pennsylvania and started a family, and honestly, it sounds like he found exactly what he wanted. He’s a really skilled woodworker and now runs a handcrafted furniture business, making beautiful pieces for people in his community. He traded the Hollywood life for a quiet one, and it’s clear he’s much happier doing something he loves and keeping his life private. It’s a really inspiring story, actually.

Danny Lloyd

Danny Lloyd is best known for his role as young Danny Torrance in the classic horror film, ‘The Shining.’ After filming, he chose to step away from acting to concentrate on his studies and pursue a different career. He later became a biology professor at a community college in Kentucky, a job he’s held for many years. He enjoys the peaceful life of teaching and prefers it to the pressures of being a child actor. Many of his students are surprised to learn that their professor once starred in such a famous movie.

Charlie Korsmo

Charlie Korsmo was a young actor in popular nineties films like ‘Hook’ and ‘Dick Tracy’. He later left acting to concentrate on his studies, eventually earning a law degree from Yale. Today, he’s a law professor at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, specializing in corporate law. He’s had a successful career in law, a far cry from his days as a child actor, and his story shows a remarkable change in professional direction.

Gene Hackman

Gene Hackman is a highly acclaimed actor with a long and award-winning career. After appearing in ‘Welcome to Mooseport,’ he retired from acting to pursue his love of writing. He’s now a successful novelist, publishing several historical fiction books. Hackman enjoys the quiet focus of writing and has said he doesn’t miss the pressures of making movies. This new chapter allows him to continue sharing stories, but in a different way.

Jeff Cohen

Jeff Cohen is best known for playing Chunk in the classic movie ‘The Goonies’. After finishing his acting career as a child, he focused on his education and went to the University of California, Berkeley. He later became a lawyer and started his own firm in Los Angeles. Now, he’s a successful entertainment lawyer, representing people in the same industry he used to be a part of as an actor. He’s become well-respected in the legal world thanks to his strong business skills.

Geoffrey Owens

Geoffrey Owens was once a familiar face on the hit TV show ‘The Cosby Show.’ Recently, he gained attention for working at Trader Joe’s while pursuing acting roles – a job he took to provide for his family. Beyond acting, Owens is a dedicated Shakespeare teacher and theater director. He’s become known for speaking about the value of any honest work and finding ways to support your creative dreams. His determination and passion have earned him admiration from many people, both within and outside the acting world.

Andrea Barber

Andrea Barber is best known for playing Kimmy Gibbler on the popular TV show ‘Full House’. After the show ended, she prioritized her education and got a master’s degree in women’s studies. For many years, Barber worked at Whittier College, helping students as an assistant to the director of international programs. She enjoyed the academic world and found it rewarding to guide students through college. While she later reprised her role in the show’s sequel, her time working in higher education was an important part of her career.

Erik Estrada

Erik Estrada is best known for playing Officer Frank Poncherello on the TV show ‘CHiPs’. After the show ended, he stayed passionate about law enforcement and public safety. He eventually became a reserve police officer in Muncie, Indiana, and later worked with a team dedicated to protecting children online. Today, he travels the country giving talks about safety and the value of community policing. His commitment to these issues in real life mirrors the role he famously played on television.

Kevin Jonas

Kevin Jonas first became famous as part of the Jonas Brothers and through his role in the movie ‘Camp Rock’. When the band took a break, he pursued other passions, including building and technology. He started his own construction company and worked as a contractor building high-end homes. He also created a food app designed to help people discover new places to eat. This demonstrates his skills as a successful business owner and entrepreneur, proving he can excel even outside of music.

Freddie Prinze Jr.

Freddie Prinze Jr. was a popular actor in teen movies like ‘She’s All That,’ but he later chose to prioritize his family and pursue his passion for cooking. He’s since become a cookbook author and worked as a chef and host on food-related shows. He also started a production company creating digital and streaming content, successfully blending his culinary interests with his background in entertainment.

Nikki Blonsky

Nikki Blonsky first gained recognition for her starring role as Tracy Turnblad in the movie ‘Hairspray’. When she wasn’t acting, she decided to build a reliable career in the beauty world. She became a licensed cosmetologist and started working at a hair salon near her home in New York. She loves getting to know her clients and helping them feel good about how they look. Her commitment to her work at the salon demonstrates how dedicated and adaptable she is.

Taran Noah Smith

Taran Noah Smith, best known for playing Mark Taylor on the popular TV show ‘Home Improvement,’ decided to leave acting to focus on his passions for the environment and food. He launched a vegan food company, creating plant-based cheeses and organic snacks. Beyond that, he worked as a builder and volunteered with groups providing aid after natural disasters. This change in career path shows how much he values sustainability and healthy living.

Omri Katz

Omri Katz, best known for playing Max Dennison in the popular movie ‘Hocus Pocus,’ stepped away from acting to pursue a career in the cannabis industry. He started his own company, The Mary Danksters, where he focuses on growing and managing the business side of things. He’s found success in this new field and enjoys the unique challenges of running a specialized company. Leaving his child acting days behind to become an entrepreneur has been a significant chapter in his life.

Carrie Henn

Carrie Henn is best known for her unforgettable performance as Newt in the movie ‘Aliens.’ Surprisingly, after the film’s success, she decided to leave acting and focus on her studies. She became an elementary school teacher and has happily spent her career helping children learn and develop. While she cherishes her experience making ‘Aliens,’ she’s found her greatest passion and reward in teaching.

Barret Oliver

I’ll never forget Barret Oliver as Bastian in ‘The NeverEnding Story’ – he was amazing! It’s incredible to learn that he stepped away from acting to dedicate himself to historical photography. He’s become a real expert in old-fashioned nineteenth-century printing methods, even writing a book about it! Now, he shares his knowledge with students as a teacher and researcher. It’s so cool to see how successful he’s been, building a thriving artistic career in the world of fine art and photography.

Ariana Richards

Ariana Richards is best known for playing Lex Murphy in the hit movie ‘Jurassic Park’. Though she acted for a while after that, she ultimately decided to pursue her love of art. Now, she’s a successful oil painter with her own gallery and studio. Inspired by classic art, her work has won her awards and praise within the art world. She enjoys being a professional artist because it lets her express herself creatively and personally.

Peter Ostrum

Peter Ostrum became famous as a child for his role as Charlie Bucket in the beloved film ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.’ Surprisingly, he decided not to continue acting after the movie’s success. Instead, he went back to a normal life and eventually became a veterinarian, earning his doctorate from Cornell University. For many years, he worked as a large animal vet in rural New York, focusing on the care of horses and cows. His career change demonstrates his commitment to animal health.

Bridgit Mendler

Bridgit Mendler was a star on Disney Channel shows like ‘Good Luck Charlie’ and ‘Lemonade Mouth’. She later left acting to concentrate on her studies, earning degrees from MIT and Harvard Law School. Now, she’s the CEO of a new space technology company that works with satellites. This move shows both her impressive intelligence and her ability to lead a business.

Frankie Muniz

Frankie Muniz, best known for starring in the comedy ‘Malcolm in the Middle’ and several movies, stepped away from acting to follow other passions. He became a professional race car driver and, with his wife, opened an olive oil and vinegar shop in Scottsdale, Arizona. They actively ran the store, and Muniz particularly enjoyed the direct connection with customers and the challenges of owning a small business. He’s found success in these varied pursuits, proving his talents extend beyond Hollywood.

Dylan Sprouse

Dylan Sprouse first became well-known as a child actor alongside his brother in the Disney Channel show ‘The Suite Life of Zack and Cody’. Since then, he’s shifted his focus to business, opening All-Wise Meadery in Brooklyn, New York. There, he’s in charge of making traditional mead – a honey-based wine. He dedicated years to learning how to brew it and also handles the business side of things. This allows him to combine his love of history with his entrepreneurial spirit.

Jennifer Stone

Jennifer Stone, known for her role as Harper Finkle on the Disney Channel’s ‘Wizards of Waverly Place,’ left acting to become a nurse. She finished nursing school and began working as a registered nurse, even during a challenging global health crisis. Stone has talked about how rewarding it is to combine her medical work with her desire to help others, finding fulfillment in a career outside of entertainment.

Tiffany Brissette

Tiffany Brissette is best known for her role as the robot VICI in the 1980s TV show ‘Small Wonder’. After the series finished, she decided to leave acting and focus on her own growth. She later became a registered nurse, dedicating years to working in healthcare and caring for patients. This change from child star to medical professional demonstrates her desire to help others.

Mary-Kate Olsen

Mary-Kate Olsen became famous as a child star alongside her sister on the TV show ‘Full House.’ She later left acting to pursue a career in fashion. Together with her twin sister, she created The Row, a highly successful luxury fashion brand that has won numerous awards. Based in New York, Olsen oversees all aspects of the business, from daily operations to creative design. Her move into high fashion has established her as a well-respected figure in the business world.

Ashley Olsen

I’ve always been impressed by Ashley Olsen. Most people remember her as a little girl on ‘Full House,’ but what she’s done since then is incredible. She and her sister really stepped away from acting to build something amazing in fashion. Ashley’s a co-founder and executive at brands like Elizabeth and James, and she’s not just a figurehead – she’s truly involved in the design and how the businesses run. It’s amazing to see how she’s transitioned from being a child star to a respected leader in the fashion world, and a lot of people in the industry have definitely noticed!

Kal Penn

Kal Penn is a well-known actor, famous for his roles in the TV show ‘House’ and the ‘Harold and Kumar’ movies. He stepped away from acting for a while to work in the Obama administration, focusing on public engagement. Later, he taught classes at the University of Pennsylvania, sharing his expertise in film and international studies. Penn has managed to combine a career in public service with his acting work, demonstrating his dedication to social and political issues.

Lisa Jakub

Lisa Jakub, known for her roles in films like ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and ‘Independence Day,’ chose to leave acting at age twenty-two to pursue a more genuine lifestyle. She reinvented herself as a writer and yoga teacher, now leading workshops focused on mental health and well-being. Jakub has written several books sharing her personal journey and guides others in managing anxiety. This career change has allowed her to find a calmer, more fulfilling life outside the spotlight.

Maia Brewton

Maia Brewton is remembered for her acting roles in shows like ‘Parker Lewis Can’t Lose’ and the movie ‘Adventures in Babysitting.’ However, she later decided to prioritize her education and went on to graduate from Yale University. She pursued a career in law and has been a practicing attorney for many years, all while keeping her personal life private. Her story is a great example of how someone can successfully change careers and find fulfillment in a new path.

Ross Malinger

Ross Malinger, known for playing Tom Hanks’ son in the classic movie ‘Sleepless in Seattle,’ stepped away from acting as he grew older. He pursued a career in business, working as a manager for various car companies and administrative offices. He discovered he preferred the challenges of organizing and leading teams in a business setting. Today, he’s focused on his career and success in the business world, a far cry from his early days as a child actor.

Josh Saviano

Josh Saviano, best known for playing Paul Pfeiffer in the TV show ‘The Wonder Years,’ pursued his education at Yale University after the series ended. He went on to become a lawyer in New York City, eventually starting his own law firm and a business helping other entrepreneurs. This shift allowed him to build a successful career that aligned with his passions and skills.

Leanna Creel

Leanna Creel, famous for playing Tori on ‘Saved by the Bell’, transitioned from acting to become a producer and business owner. She started her own video production company, focusing on creating top-quality commercials and photography. Creel has received awards for her producing work and continues to successfully manage her company, demonstrating her diverse talents within the creative world.

Lori Beth Denberg

Lori Beth Denberg, known for her work on the Nickelodeon show ‘All That,’ has moved into a variety of interesting careers. While she still makes occasional appearances, she now works as a wedding officiant and a creative writer for businesses. She finds fulfillment in these personal roles, especially being part of people’s special moments. This change demonstrates her ability to use her comedic skills in fresh and impactful ways.

Angus T. Jones

Angus T. Jones earned a lot of money as a young actor on the show ‘Two and a Half Men,’ but he ultimately chose to leave acting and focus on his faith and studies. He worked in production and management in Los Angeles, and has been looking for ways to build a more typical life for himself, exploring different business ventures away from the spotlight. His decision represents a personal search for meaning beyond the world of television fame.

Kel Mitchell

Kel Mitchell became well-known in the nineties thanks to his roles on ‘All That’ and ‘Kenan and Kel’. He’s continued working in entertainment, but also dedicated time to serving as a youth pastor and community leader. Currently, he leads at a local church, offering mentorship and support to young people. Beyond that, Mitchell is an entrepreneur, running several small businesses and clothing lines. His faith and dedication to his community are now key parts of who he is professionally.

Danica McKellar

Danica McKellar, famous for playing Winnie Cooper on ‘The Wonder Years’, has successfully combined acting with a passion for math. She’s now a bestselling author who creates books that make learning math enjoyable for kids. McKellar also has a business focused on her educational materials and promoting STEM education. Through her teaching and mentoring, she’s positively influenced students nationwide.

Hayden Christensen

Hayden Christensen became famous worldwide for playing Anakin Skywalker in the ‘Star Wars’ prequels. After that, he decided to take a break from the intense public attention to pursue his passions for farming and design. He bought a farm in Ontario, Canada, and dedicated himself to learning how to manage land and restore it to health. He also explored his creative side by working on a clothing line and other small business ventures. This move to a quieter, rural lifestyle helped him find a better balance after achieving huge success early in his career.

Tony Danza

Tony Danza is a well-known actor, famous for his roles in shows like ‘Taxi’ and ‘Who’s the Boss.’ He later pursued a long-held ambition by becoming a high school English teacher, spending a year at Northeast High School in Philadelphia. He shared his experiences to shed light on the difficulties teachers face. Since then, Danza has consistently championed public education and the need to support educators, proving his dedication to helping young people and giving back to his community.

Jack Gleeson

Jack Gleeson became famous for playing King Joffrey in the hit series ‘Game of Thrones’. Surprisingly, after his character left the show, he decided to step away from mainstream acting. He wanted to concentrate on finishing college and started his own small theater company. He enjoys the freedom and teamwork of working on smaller, more creative projects rather than the stress of large-scale productions. This new path lets him follow his artistic passions and be his own boss.

Mike Vitar

Mike Vitar is best known for playing Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez in the beloved movie ‘The Sandlot’. After appearing in films like ‘D2: The Mighty Ducks’, he decided to leave acting and dedicate himself to public service. Vitar became a firefighter with the Los Angeles Fire Department and has been serving the community for years. He finds the collaborative spirit and physical challenges of firefighting more rewarding than life in Hollywood, and his fans greatly admire his shift from a young actor to a community hero.

Brittany Ashton Holmes

Brittany Ashton Holmes, known for her charming role as Darla in ‘The Little Rascals’, chose to leave acting when she was young to have a more private life. She focused on her education and has since worked in retail and business. She’s said she’s happy with her decision and doesn’t miss being in the entertainment industry, preferring a simpler life. Her story demonstrates that childhood fame doesn’t necessarily mean a lifelong career in the public eye.

Brian Bonsall

Brian Bonsall, best known as Andy Keaton on the popular 1980s sitcom ‘Family Ties,’ also had a role in ‘Star Trek: The Next Generation.’ He chose to leave acting as a teen and later found a career in the construction industry. He now works as a contractor in Colorado, enjoying the practical work and preferring it to the world of acting. Bonsall focuses on his family and running his own small construction projects.

Danny Tamberelli

Danny Tamberelli, best known for playing Little Pete on ‘The Adventures of Pete and Pete,’ now works as a musician and runs his own creative business. He manages a band and creates digital content like podcasts and comedy sketches. He also shares his knowledge by teaching workshops and appearing at events for fans of classic TV. By turning his passions into a business, he’s built a successful career beyond acting.

Bradley Pierce

Bradley Pierce, known for playing young Peter Shepherd in the first ‘Jumanji’ and voicing Chip in ‘Beauty and the Beast,’ later changed careers. He now works in the hospitality and beverage industry, co-founding a company that consults bars and creates special cocktail ingredients. While still doing some voice acting, Pierce is now an entrepreneur focused on building a distinctive brand through his expertise in mixology.

Mara Wilson

Mara Wilson was a popular child actor, known for starring in films like ‘Matilda’ and ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’. She chose to leave acting to concentrate on her studies and her love of writing. Now a successful author and playwright, she also teaches writing classes. Wilson often writes about the difficulties of growing up in the spotlight and how important it is to prioritize mental health. Through teaching and writing, she shares her own experiences and helps others develop their creativity.

Nate Richert

Nate Richert is famous for playing Harvey Kinkle on the TV show ‘Sabrina the Teenage Witch’. After the show ended, he turned his attention to music and starting his own small businesses. To support himself, he’s worked jobs like maintenance and janitorial work while continuing to write and record music. He’s been open about the challenges actors face after being on a successful show and the importance of having a stable income. His experiences highlight the realities of building a life after a career in television.

Reed Alexander

Reed Alexander, best known for playing the mischievous Nevel Papperman on ‘iCarly’, shifted gears after his acting days and pursued a career in journalism. He studied at Columbia University and now works as a journalist and professor, teaching courses in news writing and media studies. He’s written for prominent financial publications, often focusing on the business of entertainment. This change demonstrates his commitment to both academic and professional success.

Share your thoughts on these career changes in the comments.

2026-02-22 06:52