Celebrities Who Got Their Start as Child Actors: Where Are They Now?

Child actors have been a fixture in Hollywood for generations, bringing a unique energy and talent to the screen. While many of these young performers eventually move on to other pursuits, some go on to become major stars in their own right. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most notable child actors of the past few decades and see where they are now.

Drew Barrymore

Drew Barrymore burst onto the scene as a child actor in the 1982 blockbuster “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” From there, she went on to star in a number of successful films throughout the ’80s and ’90s. In recent years, Barrymore has transitioned to a successful career as a producer and talk show host, with her own program, “The Drew Barrymore Show,” airing on CBS.

Neil Patrick Harris

Neil Patrick Harris made his mark as a child actor in the ’80s, starring in the popular sitcom “Doogie Howser, M.D.” After the show ended, Harris continued to work in Hollywood, eventually landing a breakout role as Barney Stinson in the long-running sitcom “How I Met Your Mother.” These days, Harris is still a familiar face on television, with recent roles in shows like “A Series of Unfortunate Events” and “It’s a Sin.”

Macaulay Culkin

Macaulay Culkin became an overnight sensation with his starring role in the 1990 holiday classic “Home Alone.” He went on to star in a number of other successful films throughout the ’90s, but his career eventually slowed down. In recent years, Culkin has made a bit of a comeback, with a series of appearances in the television series “American Horror Story.”

Emma Watson

Emma Watson first rose to fame as Hermione Granger in the “Harry Potter” film series. She continued to work in Hollywood after the series ended, with roles in films like “The Bling Ring” and “Little Women.” Watson has also become an outspoken advocate for women’s rights, serving as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and launching her own feminist book club.

Jodie Foster

Jodie Foster started her career as a child actor in the ’70s, with roles in films like “Taxi Driver” and “Freaky Friday.” She continued to work in Hollywood as an adult, winning Academy Awards for her performances in “The Accused” and “The Silence of the Lambs.” In recent years, Foster has taken on a variety of roles, including directing and producing.

Christina Ricci

Christina Ricci first gained fame as Wednesday Addams in the 1991 film “The Addams Family.” She went on to star in a number of successful films throughout the ’90s and 2000s, including “Sleepy Hollow” and “Monster.” In recent years, Ricci has transitioned to television, with roles in shows like “Z: The Beginning of Everything” and “Yellowjackets.”

Jonathan Lipnicki

Jonathan Lipnicki first captured hearts as the adorable Ray Boyd in the 1996 film “Jerry Maguire.” He went on to star in a number of other successful films throughout the late ’90s and early 2000s, including “Stuart Little” and “Like Mike.” In recent years, Lipnicki has continued to act, but has also become involved in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and mixed martial arts.

Mara Wilson

Mara Wilson made her film debut in the 1993 hit “Mrs. Doubtfire,” and went on to star in a number of other successful films throughout the ’90s, including “Matilda” and “Miracle on 34th Street.” However, Wilson eventually stepped away from acting to focus on her writing and activism. She has written a memoir, “Where Am I Now?: True Stories of Girlhood and Accidental Fame,” and is a vocal advocate for mental health and LGBTQ+ rights.

Conclusion

Child actors have been a fixture in Hollywood for generations, and many of them have gone on to become major stars in their own right. From Drew Barrymore to Jodie Foster, these talented performers have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. While some have transitioned to other careers, others continue to work in Hollywood, bringing their unique talents to the screen for generations to come.