The '90s It Girls Who Walked Away from Hollywood: A Look at Their Post-Fame Lives
The '90s was a decade of intense celebrity culture, where fame and fortune were the norm for many young stars. However, for some of the era's most beloved "It Girls," the price of fame was too high, and they chose to walk away from the spotlight. These talented women have since led quiet, normal lives, away from the prying eyes of Hollywood.
Bridget Fonda: From Star to Reclusive Mother
Bridget Fonda, with her famous surname and impressive acting credits, seemed destined for a lifelong career in the limelight. From acclaimed dramas to tense thrillers, she was a '90s favorite. However, after a car crash in 2003, she decided to take a break from acting, and then stepped away entirely. Fonda is now living a quiet life as a mother to son Oliver and wife of composer Danny Elfman. Her last on-screen appearance was in 2002's Snow Queen, and she has since enjoyed a life away from the camera.
Leelee Sobieski: From Teen Superstar to Private Citizen
Leelee Sobieski, a '90s teen superstar who co-starred with Hollywood A-listers, decided to permanently step back from Hollywood in 2016. Her last major role was in The Last Film Festival (2010), but she had been scaling down her roles since around 2012. Sobieski's decision to leave the industry was likely influenced by the intense pressure and lack of privacy that comes with fame. She now leads a more private, contented existence, away from the spotlight.
Karyn Parsons: From TV Star to Charity Work
Karyn Parsons, best known for her role as the eldest Banks sibling on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, has only worked on five full-length projects since 2000. Instead, she's dedicated her energy to children's non-profit Sweet Blackberry, which aims to share untold stories from Black history. Parsons is also a mother of two, sharing her life with director Alexandre Rockwell. Her decision to focus on charity work and family suggests a desire for a more meaningful and fulfilling life, away from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
Phoebe Cates: From '80s and '90s Star to Boutique Owner
Phoebe Cates, who found success in the '80s and early '90s with roles in Gremlins 2: The New Batch and Drop Dead Fred, initially stepped away from acting to raise her two children. Today, she focuses on running her successful New York City boutique, Blue Tree, which she opened on the Upper East Side in 2005. Cates' decision to prioritize her family and business suggests a desire for a more stable and secure life, away from the unpredictable nature of Hollywood.
Amanda Bynes: From TV and Movie Star to Cosmetology Student
Amanda Bynes, who found fame in the '90s and '00s with roles on The Amanda Show and All That, has moved away from the spotlight. She is currently focusing on earning her manicurist license and has recently released an EDM track, 'GIRLFRIEND', developed with friends. Bynes' decision to pursue a career in cosmetology and music suggests a desire for a more creative and fulfilling life, away from the traditional Hollywood path.
Lisa Jakub: From Child Star to Mental Health Advocate
Lisa Jakub, who rose to fame in films like Mrs. Doubtfire, The Beautician and the Beast, and Independence Day, decided that a career on screen wasn't for her. Instead, she's focusing on a career in writing, having released two books, You Look Like That Girl and Not Just Me: Anxiety, Depression, and Learning to Embrace Your Weird. Jakub's decision to help others manage their mental health suggests a desire to make a positive impact and contribute to society in a more meaningful way.
These '90s It Girls have all made the choice to walk away from Hollywood, and their post-fame lives are a testament to the diverse paths that former child and teen stars can choose. While some have found success in new ventures, others have prioritized family, charity work, or personal growth. Their stories remind us that fame is not the only measure of success, and that a quiet, normal life can be just as fulfilling and meaningful.
