There is perhaps no more of an iconic child star than Macaulay Culkin was. By age 12, he became the most successful child actor of all time. He is, of course, best known for playing Kevin in the Christmas movie “Home Alone” and “Home Alone 2.” With a promising career like his, it was surprising to see him retire at age 14.
Perhaps this had to do with his estrangement from his father. While he has appeared in some things here and there, he has mostly chosen to stay out of the spotlight.
Robert Blake
Robert Blake had one of the longest acting careers. He began acting as a child in 1939 in the movie "Bridal Suite" which starred Annabella and Robert Young and after being drafted into the army, he proceeded to become a seasoned Hollywood actor.
He enjoyed a long career in Hollywood until 2001 when he had to quit the business after he was accused of murdering his wife, Bonnie Lee Bakley. Blake was acquitted for the murder and has since maintained a low profile.
Ariana Richards
You might remember Ariana Richards for her role as Lex Murphy in none other than Steven Spielberg's 1993, "Jurassic Park." Ariana had appearances in various television programs throughout the 90s and early 2000's, like "The Golden Girls," "Empty Nest" and "Boy Meet World."
However, her acting career did not continue on to adulthood and the child star retired in order to pursue her passion as a painter.
Mara Wilson
Mara Wilson was a busy kid, acting in films like "Mrs. Doubtfire" and "Matilda." However, she quit acting long ago in 2000 so that she could experience a normal childhood.
She has since focused on writing, and has published her own memoir in 2016 called "Where Am I Now? True Stories of Girlhood and Accidental Fame." While Matilda was released already 23 years ago, it still lives on as one of the most iconic children's movies of all time.
Geena Davis
Born as Virginia Elizabeth Davis, Geena was a big star back in the 80s and 90s. She is most recognized for the roles she played in films like "The Fly," "Beetlejuice," "Thelma & Louise," and "A League of Their Own." The Academy Award and Golden Globe winner has since taken on roles in television, starring in "Commander in Chief" as well as "Grey's Anatomy."
We are glad to see her focusing her time on social activism for gender equality in the media in recent years. Oh, and she has also been married four times, but who's counting?