Remember those child stars who lit up our screens and became household names? Some went on to achieve even greater fame, while others chose to step away from the limelight entirely. Let’s catch up with some of your favorite former child actors and see what they’re up to now. It’s like reuniting with old friends—only this time, they’ve got some pretty incredible stories to share!
Jerry Mathers: Leave It to Beaver
When you think of Jerry Mathers, you probably picture him as the lovable Beaver Cleaver. But life after the show took him in a completely different direction. “After 'Leave It to Beaver,' I went to UC Berkeley and earned a degree in philosophy,” reveals Jerry, now 75, in an interview with Closer. These days, Jerry keeps a low profile, attending the occasional autograph show but mostly enjoying retirement. He and his wife, Teresa, spend their time cultivating heirloom roses and doting on their five grandchildren. “The best part? Getting them all riled up, then sending them home,” he jokes with a smile.
Ron Howard: The Andy Griffith Show
From the moment he appeared as Opie Taylor on The Andy Griffith Show, Ron Howard was destined for greatness. “By the time I was 15, I knew I wanted to be behind the camera,” says Ron, now 69. His passion for filmmaking led him to USC, though his education was briefly paused when he was cast in Happy Days. Since then, Ron has become one of Hollywood’s most celebrated directors, earning two Academy Awards. He and his wife, Cheryl, have been together for decades and have four children, two of whom followed in their dad’s footsteps as actors.
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Maureen McCormick: The Brady Bunch
Maureen McCormick may have played the sweet Marcia Brady, but off-screen, she’s all about making a difference. Inspired by her brother Denny, Maureen has become a devoted supporter of Best Buddies International, an organization that empowers individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. “It’s been such a rewarding experience,” she shares. Beyond her philanthropy, Maureen has been happily married to Michael for 38 years and cherishes her role as a mother. “Family is everything,” she says warmly.
Kristy McNichol: Family
For Kristy McNichol, fame wasn’t the end goal—it was just the beginning. “I stepped away from Hollywood to discover who I truly am,” explains Kristy, now 61. Over the years, she’s shared her talents by teaching acting and raising funds for school music programs. In 2012, she made headlines when she came out as gay. “Being open about who I am has been incredibly liberating,” she reflects. Kristy continues to inspire others with her authenticity and dedication to meaningful causes.
Mayim Bialik: Blossom
Mayim Bialik isn’t just a TV star—she’s a renaissance woman. With a Ph.D. in neuroscience, two sons, a popular podcast, and a gig hosting Jeopardy!, Mayim, 47, is busier than ever. And if that wasn’t enough, she’s also working on something fans are sure to love: a reboot of Blossom. “We’re bringing the whole original cast back, along with the creator and producers,” she reveals. “This time around, it’ll be a drama instead of a comedy!” Whether she’s juggling science, entertainment, or motherhood, Mayim proves that you can do it all.
Jay North: Dennis the Menace
Jay North may have played the mischievous Dennis Mitchell, but today, he’s found happiness far from the Hollywood spotlight. “I’ve built a fulfilling life without being tied to the entertainment industry,” says Jay, 72. After serving in the Navy, he worked in the health food industry and spent two decades as a corrections officer in Florida. “It’s been interesting meeting inmates who remember my show,” he quips. Jay has been happily married to Cindy since 1993, and together, they’ve created a peaceful life away from the chaos of show business.
Ricky Schroder: Silver Spoons
Ricky Schroder may have grown up in front of the camera, but his interests extend far beyond acting. “At 18, I won the Toyota Grand Prix, which was an amazing experience,” recalls Rick, now 53. This NYPD Blue alum is also a devoted father of four, an avid hunter, and a passionate fisherman. In recent years, he’s taken on new challenges, including playing Dolly Parton’s father in two TV movies based on her life. “Every role is an opportunity to learn and grow,” he says with enthusiasm.
Melissa Gilbert: Little House on the Prairie
Melissa Gilbert’s journey from Laura Ingalls to modern-day matriarch is nothing short of inspiring. “Right now, I’m proudest of learning how to quilt,” says Melissa, 59. As a mom and grandmother, she balances her time between New York City and her Catskills home, where she lives with her husband, Timothy Busfield, two dogs, and three chickens. In 2022, Melissa launched Modern Prairie, a lifestyle brand inspired by her roots. “It’s all about celebrating simplicity and tradition,” she explains.
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Keshia Knight Pulliam: The Cosby Show
Keshia Knight Pulliam, once the spunky Rudy Huxtable, has carved out a successful career beyond her childhood role. She currently hosts Married at First Sight and shares her culinary creations on KeshiaSKitchen.com. “Cooking is one of my greatest passions,” she says. As a mother of two, Keshia enjoys a peaceful life with her husband, Brad James, on their farm outside Atlanta. “We’re surrounded by animals—chickens, goats, you name it!” she gushes. Keshia’s warmth and authenticity continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
Johnny Whitaker: Family Affair
Johnny Whitaker’s life has been anything but ordinary since his days as Buddy on Family Affair. “I speak five languages, which has been invaluable,” says Johnny, 63, in an interview with Closer. But his most meaningful work lies in helping others. For the past 20 years, Johnny has served as a drug and alcohol counselor. He also founded Paso Por Paso Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to assisting non-English speakers in finding treatment and recovery. “It’s deeply rewarding to make a difference,” he says. Johnny is set to return to acting in the upcoming film Prepper’s Grove, proving that there’s still plenty of adventure ahead.
