Hollywood is a tough place to make a living. Just ask these former stars who have quit the business to pursue regular day jobs. Whether they’ve had enough of the drama or just want to settle down and raise a family, these celebrities prove that there’s more to life than being in the spotlight. Check out their surprising new careers!

 

Kristin Davis

Formerly From: Sex and the City

Currently: Philanthropist

Net Worth: $60 million*

Kristin Davis, best known for her role as Charlotte York on Sex and the City, has taken on a new job: designing a clothing line for Belk. The collection, which is inspired by her time on the show, includes dresses, skirts, blouses, and accessories. Davis said that she was inspired by her Southern upbringing to create the line.

This isn’t the first time that Davis has tried her hand at fashion design. In 2006, she launched a line of petite women’s clothing called “Wear all Day.” The line was sold in stores like Nordstrom and Neiman Marcus, but it was discontinued after a few seasons.

 

Elizabeth Hurley

Formerly From: Supermodel

Currently: Charity Ambassador

Net Worth: $35 million

Liz Hurley is a celebrity supermodel who is best known for her association with the global cosmetics company Estee Lauder. She first signed with Estee Lauder when she was just twenty-nine years old and had little to no experience in the modeling industry. Thanks to her successful contract with Estee Lauder, Hurley’s net worth is now in the millions.

Although Hurley still takes on occasional modeling jobs, she is now mostly focused on her work as a charity ambassador. She is actively involved in the Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign by Estee Lauder, designing her own lipstick as part of the campaign. All proceeds from the sale of the lipstick go to breast cancer research.

 

Daniel Day-Lewis

Formerly From: Lincoln

Currently: Charity President

Net Worth: $50 million

According to reports, Daniel Day-Lewis is quitting his job as an actor. The sixty-two-year-old has reportedly told friends that he doesn’t feel compelled to take roles anymore. This news comes as a shock to fans all over the world, as Day-Lewis is considered one of the greatest actors of his generation.

He has won three Academy Awards for Best Actor, and has also been awarded the prestigious BAFTA Fellowship. Day-Lewis’ retirement will no doubt saddened many people, but it seems like he has found a new passion in life. He is now the honorary president of a charity called the Poetry Archive.

 

Portia de Rossi

Formerly From: Arrested Development

Currently: Philanthropist

Net Worth: $60 million*

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to change up their jobs every now and then. After all, they often have the luxury of being able to pick and choose what projects they want to work on. But sometimes, a celebrity will totally walk away from their chosen profession – as Portia de Rossi did when she quit acting.

De Rossi is best known for her role on Arrested Development. The former model said that she has taken a break from acting, though she would make an exception for her role as Lindsay Bluth on the show if Arrested Development producers wanted to bring it back. De Rossi, who is married to talk show host Ellen DeGeneres, now focuses on philanthropy.

 

Meg Ryan

Formerly From: When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle

Currently: Producer

Net Worth: $45 million*

Quitting your day job to become a celebrity is a risky proposition, but it can pay off big time if you’re successful. Just ask Meg Ryan, who made the transition from actress to director and producer.

Ryan has been in the business for over 30 years, and her experience has paid off with some great films. Lives of Saints, Long Time Gone, Half the Sky, The Human Comedy, and more have all been well-received by critics and audiences alike. And she’s worked with some big names, including John Lithgow, Kat Dennings, and Kevin Zegers. Her first film as a director premiered in 2015 at the Middleburg Film Festival, and she’s been going strong ever since.

 

Terrence Howard

Formerly From: Empire

Currently: Producer

Net Worth: $5 million*

It’s always sad when a celebrity announces their retirement. We become so used to seeing them on the big (or small) screen that it feels like they’re part of our family. So when actor Terrence Howard announced his retirement from acting after Empire ended, fans were understandably upset.

Howard stated that he was “tired of pretending” when it came to acting, and he felt that his heart was no longer in it. This is understandable – acting can be a demanding job, both emotionally and physically. And while we as fans might want Howard to keep entertaining us, we also have to respect his decision to step away from the spotlight.

 

Taylor Momsen

Formerly From: Gossip Girl

Currently: Musician

Net Worth: $6 million*

In 2012, Taylor Momsen shocked the world when she announced that she was quitting her successful acting career. Momsen, who was famous for her role as Jenny Humphrey on the CW drama Gossip Girl, said that she no longer had any interest in acting. “I’ve never really felt comfortable in front of the camera,” Momsen told Elle magazine. “I don’t like being celebrity…It’s not something I ever aspired to be.”

Momsen’s decision to leave Hollywood behind came as a surprise to many, but it seems that she has found her true passion in music. Momsen is the frontwoman and lead singer of the band The Pretty Reckless, and the group has had four number-one hits on the US rock charts.

 

Lauryn Hill

Formerly From: Musician

Currently: Film Narrator

Net Worth: $10 million*

Rapper Lauryn Hill was a celebrity in the music industry before she quit her job and embarked on an even more successful solo career. Her album, The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill, is one of the classics of the past fifty years, and, despite not really releasing new music, she is still referenced often in music.

Hill had a difficult time after the album was dropped and she was able to regain a recording and performing career, although it ultimately didn’t work out. Hill currently works as a voiceover artist and narrator.

 

Adam Lamberg

Formerly From: Lizzie McGuire

Currently: Writer

Net Worth: $1.5 million*

Adam Lamberg’s time as a celebrity and writer is coming to an end, as Disney Plus announced that he would be reinstating him in his role of Gordo in the new Lizzie McGuire series. Lamberg first became famous for his role as Lizzie’s best friend/crush in the 2001-2004 Disney Channel show.

He also had that same role in the movies associated with Lizzie McGuire. His other roles include Lionel in When Do We Eat? and Reggie in Beautiful Loser. After that, he stopped working in film and began focusing on writing indie movies. He is reportedly excited to rejoin the McGuire cast.

 

Mary Kate & Ashley Olsen

Formerly From: Full House

Currently: Designers

Net Worth: $400 million*

When they were just six months old, Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen stole America’s hearts as the lovable little actresses on Full House. After that, they formed their own company, called Dualstar Entertainment, which featured the twins in a variety of hit films, such as Passport to Paris, Winning London, Holiday in the Sun, Getting There, and more.

The twins eventually decided to retire from acting. Mary Kate and Ashley co-founded the luxury apparel company The Row. They then founded another luxury company, called Elizabeth and James. Their line of affordable clothing is called Olsenboye, and they have another line called StyleMint.

 

Bill Murray

Formerly From: Ghostbusters

Currently: Restaurant & Baseball Team Owner

Net Worth: $140 million*

When Bill Murray quit acting in the early 2000s, he left Hollywood behind for good. The star of Caddyshack, Ghostbusters, and other classic comedies has no agent and can only be booked through a voicemail inbox that he rarely checks. His inaccessibility is purposeful – since retiring from acting, Murray has turned to more fun pursuits, including owning a restaurant and a baseball team.

Murray and his brothers own Caddy Shack, which has two locations. He’s also a part owner of the Saints, a minor league baseball team in St. Paul, Minnesota. In addition to his restaurant and baseball ventures, Murray has stakes in several other minor-league teams as well.

 

Gene Hackman

Formerly From: Unforgiven

Currently: Novelist

Net Worth: $80 million*

Gene Hackman has had a long and successful career in both acting and writing. However, at the age of ninety, he has decided to retire from both pursuits. Hackman’s acting career began in 1956 and spanned six decades. During that time, he appeared in many iconic films, including The French Connection, The Conversation, Superman: The Movie, Unforgiven, and Enemy of the State. He won two Oscars, a SAG Award, two BAFTAs, and four Golden Globes over the course of his career.

In 2004, Hackman took a break from acting but returned in 2016 with a role in the satirical film Welcome to Mooseport. His final film role was in The Unknown Flag Raiser of Iwo Jima, a 2016 documentary. Since retiring from acting, Hackman has focused on his writing career. He is currently working on his next novel, which is due to be published later this year.

 

Sarah Michelle Gellar

Formerly From: Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Currently: Cookbook writer/business owner

Net Worth: $20 million*

Sarah Michelle Gellar made her debut as an actress when she was just four years old, appearing in the film Invasion of Privacy. She had her big break a few years later when she landed the role of Kendall Hart on the soap opera All My Children. But it was her starring role as Buffy Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer that made her a household name.

Gellar has since left acting behind to focus on her own lifestyle brand, Foodstirs. The company produces baking kits and other cooking products with an emphasis on organic and sustainable ingredients. In 2015, Gellar formalized her business entity and released her first cookbook, Stirring Up Fun with Food, which went on to become a best seller.

 

Frankie Muniz

Formerly From: Malcolm in the Middle

Currently: Olive Oil Store Owner

Net Worth: $40 million*

Frankie Muniz is best known for his role as Malcolm in the Middle. But did you know that he’s also an entrepreneur? After retiring from acting, Muniz decided to try his hand at open-wheel racing. But after a few years, he decided to switch gears and go into business with his girlfriend, Paige Price.

Together, they bought a specialty olive oil store in Arizona called “Outrageous Olive Oils and Vinegars.” Muniz handles the logistics for the store, while Price manages the inventory. And together, they make a great team! Thanks to their hard work and dedication, their store has become a success.

 

Eva Amurri

Formerly From: Californication

Currently: Blogger

Net Worth: $5 million*

Eva Amurri is one celebrity who has decided to quit acting. The daughter of Meryl Streep, Eva got her start early with a role in a movie in 2002. Since then, she’s appeared in Californication and other projects. But now, Eva is expecting her third child and has taken a step back from acting.

It’s not clear if this is a permanent decision or not, but for now, Eva is focusing on her small business as a YouTuber and blogger. She’s still keeping busy, but in a different way than she was before. It’ll be interesting to see what the future holds for Eva Amurri!

 

Ron Howard

Formerly From: Director

Currently: Teacher

Net Worth: $160 million*

Ron Howard is one of those celebrities who has managed to make a successful career in both acting and directing. He’s had roles in some iconic TV shows and movies, and his work as a director has earned him critical acclaim and box office success. But what you might not know about Ron Howard is that he almost quit show business altogether.

Howard got his big break as an actor on the hit TV show Happy Days. But after a few years of being typecast as the lovable goofball Richie Cunningham, Howard began to feel like he was stuck in a rut. He seriously considered quitting acting and going back to school to become a teacher.

 

Erik Estrada

Formerly From: CHiPs

Currently: Reserve police deputy

Net Worth: $4 million*

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to take on Reserve Deputy positions. In fact, many of them have done so over the years. One celebrity, in particular, is Erik Estrada, best known for his role in the police procedural drama CHiPs.

Estrada was born in East Harlem, New York City, and knew from a young age that he wanted to be an actor. It wasn’t until his role in the 1970 movie The Cross and the Switchblade that he was able to get his foot in the door. After CHiPs ended its run, Estrada took on a number of smaller roles before quitting acting altogether in the early 2000s.

 

Nikki Blonsky

Formerly From: Hairspray

Currently: Cosmetologist

Net Worth: $625,000*

It’s always a shame when a promising young celebrity fizzles out after just a few years in the spotlight. Such was the case with Nikki Blonsky, who shot to fame in 2007 after starring in the hit movie Hairspray. Many predicted that she would go on to have a long and successful career in Hollywood.

Unfortunately, things didn’t quite work out that way. Blonsky has mostly faded from the public eye in recent years, working as a cosmetologist instead of an actor. She does occasionally pop up on television sitcoms, but it seems her days as a major Hollywood star are behind her. Still, you never know – maybe she’ll make a comeback one day and we’ll all be singing her praises once again. For now, we can only look back at her brief moment in the spotlight and wonder what could have been.

 

Tiffany

Formerly From: “I Think We’re Alone Now” – 80s Popstar Fame

Currently: Clothing store owner  

Net Worth: $4 million*

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to walk away from their careers. Sometimes they take a break to pursue other interests, and sometimes they just retire altogether. Tiffany, an 80s teen singing icon, is one celebrity who has quit her career – or at least, she’s taken a long hiatus. Tiffany was best known for her song “I Think We’re Alone Now.” But in recent years, she’s been out of the spotlight.

So what has Tiffany been up to? Well, she’s still modeling – although now she models for Playboy, instead of mainstream brands. She’s also starred on a number of reality shows, including Celebrity Fit Club, I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here (the Australian version), and Hulk Hogan’s Celebrity Championship Wrestling.

 

Freddie Prinze Jr.

Formerly From: She’s All That

Currently: WWE producer

Net Worth: $19 million*

Did you know that Freddie Prinze Jr. is now a producer for the WWE?

That’s right, the actor famous for movies like I Know What You Did Last Summer has swapped Hollywood for the world of professional wrestling. It’s an unlikely move, but one that makes sense when you consider Prinze Jr.’s background. He first worked with the WWE from 2008 to 2009, creating content and blogging about his thoughts on the matches. Though he left in 2010, he returned shortly thereafter.

Nowadays, he resides in LA with his wife Sarah Michelle Gellar and their two kids. And while he isn’t acting anymore, he’s still very much involved in showbusiness – just from behind the camera this time.

 

Charlie Korsmo

Formerly From: What About Bob?

Currently: Law professor

Net Worth: $500,000*

Charlie Korsmo was a celebrity child actor who famously appeared in the Disney comedy What About Bob? He decided that he wanted to go into a more academic field after that, though he still has occasionally appeared in movies—most recently, he was in the film Can’t Hardly Wait in 1998 as William Lichter.

Korsmo decided to attend law school, leaving his Disney days behind. He got his undergraduate degree in physics from MIT in 2000. He got his J.D. from Yale Law School six years later. He has worked for the EPA and in politics. Currently, he is a law professor at Case Western Reserve, teaching corporate law.

 

Geena Davis

Formerly From: Thelma & Louise

Currently: Documentarian

Net Worth: $30 million*

Geena Davis is a celebrity who is known for her acting career. She has starred in some great movies, including Tootsie, The Fly, and Beetlejuice. However, she has also had some low points in her career, including a short-lived talk show that was produced by Disney.

Davis has since turned to directing and business. She founded her own organization, The Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media. Her Institute helps increase the presence of women in the media. It’s great to see Davis using her celebrity status to make a difference!

 

Angus T. Jones

Formerly From: Two and a Half Men

Currently: Management at a media company  

Net Worth: $15 million*

Angus T. Jones is a celebrity who is known for quitting his successful show, Two and a Half Men. He started his acting career at a young age, appearing in films like Simpatico and The Rookie.

Throughout his career, he used his star power to promote various charities, such as First Star Organization, Rock ‘N Roll Fantasy Camp, and St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. In recent years, he has quit acting altogether and has spoken out against the industry. Despite his success, Angus T. Jones has had a complicated relationship with celebrity life and the entertainment industry.

 

Macaulay Culkin

Formerly From: Home Alone

Currently: Publisher of the website Bunny Ears

Net Worth: $15 million*

Macaulay Culkin was one of the most successful child actors of all time. He starred in the Home Alone series, as well as the coming-of-age film My Girl. However, in recent years, he has become better known for his work with the satirical website Bunny Ears, and his witty tweets on Twitter.

While Culkin has had a lot of success in his career, he has also struggled at times. In 1994, he announced that he was quitting acting, and he took a break from the spotlight for several years. He made a comeback in 2003 with the film Party Monster, but he has since largely retired from acting.

 

Josh Saviano

Formerly From: The Wonder Years

Currently: Lawyer

Net Worth: $500,000*

Has Hollywood seen the last of celebrity lawyers? It’s hard to say. Some, like Josh Saviano, seem to be done with acting for good. Others, like Amal Clooney, continue to juggle their celebrity status with their law careers.

Saviano is best known for his role as Paul on The Wonder Years. After the show ended, he attended Yale and then went on to law school. He’s now a successful attorney in New York City. Clooney, on the other hand, is a world-renowned human rights lawyer. She’s also married to one of the most famous actors in the world, George Clooney. Despite her celebrity status, she continues to work on high-profile cases and fight for justice.

 

Taran Noah Smith

Formerly From: Home Improvement

Currently: Vegan food company owner, tech manager for Community Submersibles

Net Worth: $300,000*

Many child celebrities have a tough time when they transition into adulthood. They may have trouble finding work, or they may simply feel like they missed out on a normal childhood. One celebrity who has spoken out about his experience is Taran Noah Smith. Smith played the role of Mark on the popular sitcom Home Improvement. After the show ended, he retired from acting at just 16 years old.

In an interview, Smith said that he regretted not having a chance to choose what he wanted to do with his life. He also spoke about how difficult it can be for child celebrities to find work once they become adults.

 

Geoffrey Owens

Formerly From: The Cosby Show

Currently: Director of the Brooklyn Shakespeare Company

Net Worth: $300,000*

Quitting a celebrity job is usually considered a bad career move. But for Geoffrey Owens, it was the best thing he ever did. Owens was on The Cosby Show in the nineties. He also had guest appearances on It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, That’s So Raven, Lucifer, and more. He made headlines in 2018 after the Daily Mail posted photos of him working as a cashier at Trader Joe’s.

People rallied to Owens’ defense, noting that show business was fickle and Owens shouldn’t be job-shamed for working at the Whole Foods competitor. Owens was able to book roles from that publicity, including one on a ten-episode Tyler Perry project. Currently, in addition to minor acting roles, he is the artistic director of the Brooklyn-based arts organization S.T.R.E.B.

 

George Foreman

Formerly From: Two-Time World Heavyweight Champion Fame

Currently: Ringside boxing analyst for HBO

Net Worth: $340 million*

George Foreman is a celebrity who is known for quitting. He was a successful boxer in the sixties and seventies, but he retired in 1977 after a loss to Jimmy Young. However, he made a comeback in 1994 at the age of forty-five and knocked out Michael Moorer to regain his title.

This made him the oldest heavyweight boxing champ in history before he re-retired. Foreman is also the owner of the patent to the Foreman grill. He is a ringside analyst for HBO now.

 

Susan Boyle

Formerly From: Britain’s Got Talent

Currently: Betting Store Manager

Net Worth: $40 million*

Despite her celebrity status, Susan Boyle has no plans to quit her day job as a betting shop manager. Boyle shot to fame after her stunning performance of “I Dreamed a Dream” on Britain’s Got Talent. She went on to release several successful albums, including I Dreamed a Dream, The Gift, and Hope.

However, Boyle remains humble and down-to-earth, saying that she loves her job and has no intention of quitting. She is an inspiration to many who see her as proof that it’s never too late to achieve your dreams.

 

Mara Wilson

Formerly From: Matilda

Currently: Writer/podcaster

Net Worth: $500,000*

Mara Wilson was a celebrity child actor in the 1990s, appearing in films like Mrs. Doubtfire and Matilda. In 2000, she announced her retirement from acting, and has since become a writer and podcaster.

In 2016, Wilson published a book called Where Am I Now?, which discussed her childhood fame. In the book, she opens up about why she decided to quit acting.

Since retiring from acting, Wilson has found success as a writer. She has published several novels and plays, including Sheeple, which was performed at the NY International Fringe Festival. Wilson is also popular on Twitter, where she often shares her thoughts on celebrity culture and the entertainment industry.

 

Phoebe Cates

Formerly From: Fast Times at Ridgemont High

Currently: Clothing store owner

Net Worth: $35 million*

If you’re a celebrity, quitting can be pretty easy. Just walk away from the cameras and the money and never look back, right? That’s exactly what Phoebe Cates did. Cates was the star of several eighties’ movies, including Gremlins and Fast Times at Ridgemont High.

She stated later in an interview that she didn’t truly love acting, nor did she like the industry. She said she only was acting “for the money.” True to these words, today Cates works as a clothing store owner. She owns her own store and small business, called Blue Tree, which is located on Madison Avenue in New York City.  Unlike major conglomerates like Levi Strauss, her company is privately-held.

 

Jeff Cohen

Formerly From: The Goonies

Currently: Lawyer

Net Worth: $4 million*

Jeff Cohen was born in LA and was an actor in the eighties and nineties before he retired in 1991. He was a child actor who was best-known for his role as Chunk in The Goonies, a Steven Spielberg movie. Cohen retired to focus on his education. He got his JD from the UCLA School of Law in 2000.

He became an entertainment attorney in LA, using his preexisting show business connections to help him land jobs. He founded his own firm, Cohen & Gardner, in 2002. He was profiled in Variety and Hollywood Reporter in 2008 as a “Top Executive” in Hollywood. Cohen has also published a book, The Deal.

 

Jonathan Taylor Thomas

Formerly From: Home Improvement

Currently: Director

Net Worth: $18 million*

Jonathan Taylor Thomas became a celebrity in the early 1990s thanks to his role on the sitcom Home Improvement. He also did voiceover work for Disney’s The Lion King and New Line Cinema’s The Adventures of Pinocchio. In 2006, he abruptly retired from acting, choosing instead to pursue his education.

He attended a prep school in California and then enrolled at Harvard, studying abroad in Scotland. He eventually graduated with a General Studies degree from Columbia University. Nowadays, he works as a director but has made occasional appearances on television and film since 2013.

 

Peter Ostrum

Formerly From: Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory

Currently: Large animal veterinarian

Net Worth: $500,000*

Most celebrity bio pieces focus on the celebrity’s many accomplishments. But in the case of Peter Ostrum, it’s his one big role that stands out the most. Ostrum played Charlie in the 1971 movie Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. He was picked for the movie by talent agents when he was twelve. After the film ended, he chose not to sign a three-movie contract and instead shied away from even speaking about the role.

However, that changed in 1990 when Ostrum realized that kids wanted to hear about his time on the show. He began an yearly tradition of traveling to schools and talking to kids about his experience. His name spiked on Google in 2005 when the remake was released.

 

Jack Gleeson

Formerly From: Game of Thrones

Currently: College student/theater owner  

Net Worth: $6 million*

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to retire from their craft early on in their career. For some, like Jack Gleeson, it’s a matter of pursuing other interests. Gleeson shot to fame playing the despised Joffrey Baratheon on HBO’s Game of Thrones. The role earned him critical acclaim and international recognition, but after the show ended in 2014, Gleeson decided to retire from acting.

Instead, he focused on his education, attending Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland. He also founded his own theater company, Collapsing Horse, which is based in Dublin. While some may see Gleeson’s decision to quit celebrity life as strange, it’s clear that he’s following his passions – and that’s always admirable.

 

Andrew Shue

Formerly From: Melrose Place

Currently: Website owner

Net Worth: $100 million*

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to walk away from their successful acting careers. For some, it’s a chance to pursue other passions. For others, it may be simply time to move on. But whatever the reason, it’s always interesting to see what celebrities do after they quit acting.

One celebrity who has taken an interesting post-acting path is Andrew Shue. Shue was born in Delaware and attended Dartmouth College, where he got his BA in history. He is best known for his role as Billy Campbell on the popular soap opera Melrose Place. He appeared on the show from 1992 until 1999. After retiring from acting, Shue became involved with Do Something, a nonprofit dedicated to getting young people active in their community. He also started a social networking site called CafeMom, which is targeted towards moms.

 

Karyn Parsons

Formerly From: Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Currently: Writer

Net Worth: $1.5 million*

Karyn Parsons is an actress and comedian who became famous for her role on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. She played Hilary Banks, the eldest daughter in the family, from 1990 until 1996. Parsons also starred opposite Damon Wayans in the ’95 film Major Payne. Currently, she is a writer. While she had roles in other movies, such as the SNL Studios film The Ladies Man, she has focused on writing.

She wrote an animated series called Sweet Blackberry, which tells stories about unsung Black heroes. She also published a middle-school novel called How High the Moon. The novel was inspired by her mother’s childhood during the Civil Rights Movement.

 

MC Hammer

Formerly From: “U Can’t Touch This” Fame

Currently: Preacher

Net Worth: $1.5 million*

MC Hammer is one of the most famous rappers of all time. He’s also known for blowing through his entire fortune and declaring bankruptcy in the nineties. However, he’s made a comeback and is currently considered one of the forefathers of the pop-rap genre. In the mid-nineties, Hammer was signed with Death Row Records.

Suge Knight saw his potential after he released Feel My Power, Let’s Get it Started, Please Hammer, Don’t Hurt ‘Em, and Too Legit to Quit, among other works. Hammer worked with Tupac, Big Daddy Kane, Deion Sanders, and more at the peak of his career.

 

Rick Moranis

Formerly From: Honey, I Shrunk the Kids

Currently: Stay-at-home dad

Net Worth: $10 million*

Rick Moranis is a Canadian actor, comedian, and writer who found success in the 1980s thanks to his work on Second City Television and in films like Ghostbusters, Little Shop of Horrors, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, and Parenthood. After taking some time off to raise his children as a single parent, Moranis largely retired from Hollywood.

However, 2020 has been a big year for the actor. In addition to making a rare public appearance to accept an honorary degree from Ryerson University, Moranis surprised fans by signing on for a new movie: a sequel to his 1987 hit film Spaceballs.

 

Lisa and Louise Burns

Formerly From: The Shining

Currently: Lawyer and scientist

Net Worth: Combined $3 million*

There are some celebrity twins who have managed to find success in Hollywood despite only appearing in a single movie. One of the most famous examples is the case of Lisa and Louise Burns, who became known as the terrifying Grady Twins in Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s The Shining.

The Shining was a massive hit upon its release in 1980, and the Burns sisters’ performances were a big part of why. Their eerie looks and staring eyes helped to make the film even more unnerving, and they quickly became pop culture icons. Despite their success in The Shining, both Lisa and Louise Burns chose to quit acting not long after the film’s release.

 

Jennie Garth

Formerly From: Beverly Hills, 90210

Currently: Business owner

Net Worth: $8 million*

Currently, celebrity Jennie Garth is in the process of quitting smoking. She has been smoking for many years and has decided that it is time to quit. In addition to quitting smoking, Garth is also currently working on her own business.

She launched the company called MomGiftBox.com, which is an online subscription box of lifestyle/pampering products for moms. A portion of the proceeds from the boxes go to charity. She also has a line with Dune Jewelry, which helps support mothers who are dealing with cancer.

 

Keith Thibodeaux

Formerly From: I Love Lucy

Currently: Executive Director of a dance company

Net Worth: $1 million*

Little Ricky on I Love Lucy was played by Keith Thibodeaux, who at just five years old was one of the youngest actors ever cast in a major television role. After the show ended, Thibodeaux transitioned into a music career with the Christian rock band David and the Giants.

In the early 1970s, he battled addiction but eventually rediscovered Christianity and got clean and sober. He is currently the Executive Director of Ballet Magnificat!, an international dance company founded by his wife Kathy Denton in 1986.

 

Jay North

Formerly From: Dennis the Menace

Currently: Correctional Officer

Net Worth: $500,000*

Dennis the Menace might be better known to today’s kids as a cartoon character, but back in the ‘60s, he was a live-action mischief-maker. Jay North had already been in the business for some time before landing the lead role in the CBS sitcom. Like many child actors, North found the industry and his treatment on set too much to bear.

When the show ended, the star continued to work until the roles dried up. After a stint in the Navy, he returned to acting with limited success. Now 68, North no longer auditions, but instead has worked as a correctional officer in Florida’s juvenile justice system. Although he’s celebrity, he’s currently just a regular Joe.

 

Angela Cartwright

Formerly From: The Danny Thomas Show

Currently: Photographer

Net Worth: $5 million*

When celebrity Angela Cartwright first came to prominence in 1965’s hit musical The Sound of Music, she had no idea that she would one day become a successful photographer. But after quitting her acting career in 1976, Cartwright set up her own photography business in Studio City, L.A. and has since built a reputation as a talented commercial and art photographer.

These days, Cartwright is just as busy as ever, shooting for both big and small clients. But she says that she loves the freedom that comes with being her own boss. “I’m really able to be creative and do things my own way,” she says. “It’s very satisfying.”

 

Jerry Mathers

Formerly From: Leave It To Beaver

Currently: Commercial loan officer

Net Worth: $7 million*

Jerry Mathers is best known for his iconic role as Beaver Cleaver on the classic television show Leave It to Beaver. But what many fans don’t know is that Mathers actually didn’t want the part when he auditioned for it.

In fact, Mathers has said that he was so uninterested in the role that he told the producers he didn’t even want it. They hired him on the spot anyway and the rest is history.

Mathers retired from acting in 1978 and nowadays works as a commercial loan officer. However, he still makes occasional appearances at fan conventions.

 

Lauren Chapin

Formerly From: Father Know Best

Currently: Dog groomer (retired)

Net Worth: $6 million*

Celebrities often have troubled childhoods, and Lauren Chapin is no different. The actress, who played the daughter on Father Knows Best, had a difficult upbringing that she later revealed in her biography. After the show was canceled, Chapin found herself unable to land a job.

By 1981, she had worked as an air hostess and a dog groomer to make ends meet. These days, the former actress runs a live version of Father Knows Best, which performs at different events as well as on cruise holidays. If that fails, she can always fall back on her evangelist license!

 

Quinn Cummings

Formerly From: Family

Currently: Writer, businesswoman

Net Worth: $4 million*

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to quit acting. For some, it’s a matter of moving on to other projects. For others, it’s simply a case of losing interest in the industry. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of famous faces who have said goodbye to Hollywood for good.

One such actress is Quinn Cummings. Cummings was nominated for an Oscar for her role in The Goodbye Girl. However, she quit acting in 1991 and has since become a writer. Her books include Notes From the Underwire, The Year of Living Dangerously, and a collection of essays called Pet Sounds. Her last book was released in 2013.

 

Danny Bonaduce

Formerly From: The Partridge Family

Currently: Radio personality

Net Worth: $5 million*

If you’re a celebrity, it’s pretty much expected that you’ll try your hand at a number of different things. After all, once you’ve achieved success in one area, why not see if you can replicate that elsewhere?

For Danny Bonaduce, this has meant dipping his toe into just about every aspect of the entertainment business. He’s been a reality TV star, professional wrestler, radio personality and more. And currently, he’s an ordained minister. But Bonaduce isn’t one to rest on his laurels. In fact, he’s quit celebrity life several times – only to find himself drawn back in again.

 

Lisa Loring

Formerly From:  The Addams Family

Currently: Makeup artist

Net Worth: $500,000*

Though she may be best known for her role as Wednesday Addams, Lisa Loring’s career extends far beyond that iconic character. These days, the former child star works as a make-up artist in both the film industry and in the private sector.

Despite her impressive resume, Loring tends to stay out of the spotlight these days. Whether she’s busy working on a new project or spending time with her family, the now-adult actress seems content to avoid the public eye. That said, fans of The Addams Family can still catch a glimpse of Loring from time to time. She occasionally makes appearances at conventions and other events where she is happy to meet and greet her admirers.

 

Jon Gosselin

Formerly From: Jon & Kate Plus 8

Currently: DJ, prep cook at TGI Fridays

Net Worth: $10,000*

Jon Gosselin rose to fame along with his wife, Kate Gosselin, when they created a hit reality show called Jon & Kate Plus 8. In the series, the couple showcased their unusual family situation, raising both sextuplets and a set of twins.  As the show went on, it began to take a toll on their marriage as fame made it harder to live an ordinary life off-screen. Jon and Kate eventually split, with the name of the show changing to Kate Plus 8.

Since he left the show, Jon has dabbled in a lot of different career paths. He briefly worked as a waiter and then as a salesman for Ed Hardy before finally discovering his passion for DJ’ing. He currently works as a DJ in Pennsylvania and seems to be enjoying his life off the celebrity radar.

 

Mike Vitar

Formerly From: The Sandlot

Currently: Firefighter

Net Worth: $300,000*

It’s not every day that a celebrity walks away from Hollywood to pursue a new career. But that’s exactly what Mike Vitar did after starring in the 1993 hit movie The Sandlot. Vitar, who played Benny in the film, left acting behind in 2002 to become an emergency medical technician (EMT).

He then went on to work for the Los Angeles Fire Department, where he’s been saving lives ever since. So what made Vitar decide to leave Hollywood behind? In an interview, he said that he simply “lost interest” in acting and wanted to try something new. And we’re sure glad he did! Thanks to his quick thinking and brave actions, countless lives have been saved.

 

Angelina Pivarnick

Formerly From: The Jersey Shore

Currently: EMT

Net Worth: $2 million*

Quitting the celebrity lifestyle doesn’t always mean that you’re leaving your career behind. For some celebrities, it means finding a new calling in life. One celebrity who has recently made a career change is Angelina Pivarnick, former Jersey Shore cast member.

Pivarnick might have seemed high maintenance on the show, but her recent career change proves that she’s more than meets the eye. Currently, Angelina is working as an EMT for the Staten Island Fire Department. She’s on call to respond to emergencies as they happen, and she’s also recently gotten married. Pivarnick says that she’s thrilled to be starting a family and helping her community in a new way. She’s proof that even celebrities can find new meaning in their lives by making a career change.

 

Kevin Jonas

Formerly From: The Jonas Brothers

Currently: Running a social media marketing business

Net Worth: $25 million*

Kevin Jonas is currently best known as a celebrity and former member of the successful boy band, the Jonas Brothers. But what many people don’t know is that he has also found success in other areas since quitting the band and going solo.

Currently, Kevin is married and living in the suburbs of New Jersey with his wife. He also has a successful marketing career. So it seems like Kevin has definitely found his place after leaving the Jonas Brothers behind.

 

Ali MacGraw

Formerly From: Love Story

Currently: Author and activist

Net Worth: $6 million*

As an actress, Ali McGraw was no stranger to the limelight. But after starring in the heartbreaking love story, she decided to quit Hollywood and focus on other passions.

These days, McGraw is a yoga devotee and animal activist. She’s often credited with popularizing yoga in America and has worked tirelessly to raise awareness about how we treat animals. She’s participated in public service announcements for organizations like PETA, and even won awards for her work in helping creatures in need.

Currently, McGraw is enjoying a quieter life out of the spotlight. But her impact on both the entertainment industry and the world at large is undeniable. We’re lucky to have her as an advocate for wellness and compassion.

 

Dylan Sprouse

Formerly From: Suite Life of Zack & Cody

Currently: Brewery owner and operator

Net Worth: $8 million*

Dylan Sprouse was a celebrity from a young age, appearing on the Disney Channel show “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody” with his twin brother Cole. But he decided to leave the entertainment industry behind to pursue his education. He attended New York University’s Gallatin School of Individualized Study, where he decided to go into the rather unusual career path of brewing mead.

Mead is a drink similar to beer, but it is brewed from honey instead of barley or other grains. Sprouse opened a mead brewery in Brooklyn, and he is trying to make the ancient drink more popular. He has even created his own line of mead, called “All-Natural Sprousom.” So far, it seems to be working – his mead has been well-received by both critics and customers.

 

Jamie Walters

Formerly From: Beverly Hills, 90210

Currently: EMT/firefighter

Net Worth: $50,000*

Jamie Walters is probably best known for his role on the hit television show Beverly Hills, 90210. The teen drama, created by the same person as Sex and the City, tackled a lot of risqué topics during its ten seasons. Walters played the character of Ray Pruit on seasons 4-7, starting as a recurring character and then becoming a regular cast member.

After his turn on the show ended, Walters had a short stint as a musician, creating country music, before pivoting careers once again. He finally landed on a career helping people, training to become an EMT before joining the Los Angeles Fire Department as a firefighter. He currently works as a celebrity paramedic and quitting was never an option for him.

 

Jimmie Walker

Formerly From: Good Times

Currently: Radio host

Net Worth: $800,000*

Jimmie Walker is a celebrity best known for his portrayal of J.J Evans on the CBS sitcom Good Times. He won two Golden Globes for his work on the show, and more importantly, he coined a catchphrase that is still quoted to this day: “Dy-n-omite!”

These days, Walker is mostly retired from acting, although he does continue to tour with his stand up comedy routine. He has also ventured into the world of radio, hosting shows on WHIO, WOAI, WLS, and KKAR. In 2012, he released an autobiography titled Dyn-o-mite! Good Times, Bad Times, Out Times – A Memoir.

 

Vanilla Ice

Formerly From: “Ice Ice Baby” fame

Currently: Jet ski racer

Net Worth: $10 million*

Vanilla Ice was one of the most unlikely celebrity success stories of the late 1980s and early 1990s. A white rapper from Texas, he achieved mainstream success with his debut album To The Extreme in 1990. The album’s lead single, “Ice Ice Baby,” was a huge hit, becoming the first hip-hop song to top the Billboard charts.

However, Vanilla Ice’s career didn’t last long. He quit music in 1994 after his second album failed to match the success of his debut. He then reinvented himself as a jet ski racer and celebrity stuntman. These days, he’s still racing jet skis and performing stunts, and he occasionally pops up in TV retrospectives about his brief but successful music career.

 

Danielle Fishel

Formerly From: Boy Meets World

Currently: Working in health products

Net Worth: $8 million*

For years, Danielle Fishel was best known as Topanga from Boy Meets World. But after the show ended, she struggled to find her place in Hollywood. She acted in a few forgettable shows and then dabbled in fashion journalism before finally quitting and getting a 9-to-5 job at Bloomingdale’s.

These days, however, Fishel has found a new passion that’s proven to be much more lucrative: health products. She recently launched her own line of vegan hair products called Be Free. Given Topanga’s iconic vibrant and flowing hair, it seems like a fitting career path for Fishel. Plus, it’s clear she’s passionate about the products she’s selling – something that always comes across to customers.

 

Jonathan Bennett

Formerly From: Mean Girls

Currently: Spin instructor

Net Worth: $300,000*

When celebrity actor Aaron Carter decided to quit acting, he likely had no idea that he would end up teaching spin classes in Los Angeles. But that’s exactly where the former teen idol has ended up, helping other celebrities chisel their features in pursuit of momentary stardom.

It’s a far cry from his days as a scene-stealing heartthrob in films like Mean Girls, but it seems to be keeping him busy. For anyone who wants to see the former celebrity in person, they can drop by one of his spin classes and say hello. Who knows, maybe you’ll be next in line for Hollywood stardom.

 

Danielle Spencer

Formerly From: What’s Happening!!

Currently: Veterinarian

Net Worth: $500,000*

Danielle Spencer may have started her career as a child celebrity on the ABC sitcom What’s Happening!!, but she’s far from being a has-been. In fact, she’s currently enjoying a successful career as a veterinarian.

Spencer’s love for animals began at a young age, thanks in part to her late stepfather. After he passed away in a car accident, Spencer decided to honor him by studying to be a vet. She eventually opened her own private practice in California, where she continues to help animals in need.

 

Mary Badham

Formerly From: To Kill a Mockingbird

Currently: Art restorer and college testing coordinator

Net Worth: $1 million*

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird was a huge success when it was released in 1962. The movie starred Gregory Peck and 10-year-old Mary Badham as Scout Finch. Her performance was so impressive that she was nominated for an Oscar.

But what happened to her after that?

Badham left the silver screen behind to focus on other pursuits. Her last reported profession was as an art restorer and a college testing coordinator. She shares two children with her husband Richard W. Wilt, who is the dean of Library and Educational Support Services at Lehigh Carbon Community College in Pennsylvania.

 

Johnny Crawford

Formerly From: The Rifleman

Currently: Orchestra leader

Net Worth: $1 million*

It’s not uncommon for celebrities to quit acting in pursuit of other interests. For example, Johnny Depp famously left Hollywood behind to become a rock musician. These days, however, it’s Crawford who is doing the celebrity quitting.

The now-62-year-old actor is currently leading a vintage dance orchestra in California. The group has been quite successful, performing at many events in Hollywood and even releasing albums to critical acclaim. So why did Crawford swap acting for music? In his own words, “I just wanted to do something different with my life.” And we have to say, he’s certainly doing that!

 

Peter Ostrum

Formerly From: Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory

Currently: Veterinarian

Net Worth: $500,000*

Peter Ostrum is best known for his role as Charlie in the 1971 classic Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. But what many people don’t know is that after appearing in that film, he decided to quit acting altogether and pursue a career in veterinary medicine.

Ostrum was always interested in horses, and after appearing in Willy Wonka he decided to study to become a veterinarian. He graduated from Cornell University’s vet school and now works as a large animal veterinarian in Lowville, New York. He lives there with his wife and daughter.

 

Linda Blair

Formerly From: The Exorcist

Currently: Founder of an animal rescue charity

Net Worth: $16 million*

Linda Blair’s first famous role as a child actress was in The Exorcist, where she terrified the nation with her pea-soup-spewing devil child. Blair has stuck to her horror movie roots throughout her acting career, but she has also become an advocate for animal rights. In 2010, she appeared on Pit Boss, an Animal Planet show that aired for two seasons.

Currently, Blair runs her own charity full-time called the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation. The foundation, which was founded in 2004, rehabilitates and adopts rescue animals throughout the country. Linda Blair is a long-time animal lover and celebrity who has used her platform to make a difference in the lives of countless animals.

 

Mackenzie Phillips

Formerly From: American Graffiti

Currently: Rehab counselor

Net Worth: $3 million*

Mackenzie Phillips is a celebrity who has had a long struggle with substance abuse issues. Thankfully, she has overcome all that and is currently working as a drug rehab counselor in West Hollywood’s Breathe Life Healing Center.

She has stepped away from acting, save for a small role on the TV show “One Day at a Time,” but is using her experience to help others who are struggling with addiction.

 

Al Green

Formerly From: Singer

Currently: Preacher

Net Worth: $20 million*

Al Green is a celebrity preacher who found religion after a tragic incident with his girlfriend. He currently resides near Graceland, Tennessee, and he is the pastor of his own church, called The Full Gospel Tabernacle Church.

Green is famous for a string of hit singles in the seventies, including “Tired of Being Alone” and “Take Me to the River.” His decision to become a pastor came from a need to cope with the death of his girlfriend. Since then, he has dedicated his life to preaching and helping others find religion as a way to heal their lives.

 

Mike Maronna

Formerly From: The Adventures of Pete & Pete

Currently: Electrician

Net Worth: $1 million*

Although Mike Maronna has not had any acting credits since 2004, he is still best known for his role on the Nickelodeon show, The Adventures of Pete & Pete, as well as playing Jeff in Home Alone and its sequel.

After quitting acting, Maronna became an electrician. Ironically, his work brings him back to film sets where his technical expertise is used to wire the many complicated lights required for major Hollywood productions.

 

Lauren (Lo) Bosworth

Formerly From: The Hills

Currently: Entrepreneur of Love Wellness

Net Worth: $25 million*

Lauren “Lo” Bosworth became famous as a member of the cast of the scripted reality show The Hills, as well as Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County. These shows depicted the lives of her and her close friends (and frenemies). Bosworth, upon retiring from acting, decided to start her own company, called Love Wellness.

Love Wellness is a feminine health care brand. Bosworth founded it in 2016 after she was experiencing chronic illnesses that traditional drugstore brands and prescriptions were unable to fix. Bosworth is also a published author, having written her autobiographical book, The Lo-Down. Currently, Love Wellness sells products like vitamins, supplements, skincare items, and more. All of their products are natural and free of harsh chemicals. Bosworth is passionate about helping women feel their best, and Love Wellness is her way of doing that.

 

Willa Ford

Formerly From: Singer

Currently: Interior designer

Net Worth: $1 million*

Celebrities often make headlines for quitting Hollywood. In recent years, we’ve seen A-listers like George Clooney, Jennifer Aniston, and Will Smith all say goodbye to Tinseltown. But what about those who have left the limelight for other pursuits?

Willa Ford is a former actress and singer who you might recognize from films like Friday the 13th or shows like Dancing with the Stars. Willa’s film career capped after 2014 following the release of her most recent four films. Ford, now a mother of two with NFL husband Ryan Nece, left Hollywood to pursue a career in interior design. Her independent firm specializes in chic, sleek designs with an emphasis on modern styles.

 

Crystal McKellar

Formerly From: The Wonder Years

Currently: Lawyer

Net Worth: $500,000*

Crystal McKellar was once a celebrity child actress, appearing on The Wonder Years as Becky Slater. However, she chose to pursue a different path in life and is currently an attorney.

McKellar graduated from Yale University with an undergraduate degree. She then attended Harvard Law School, graduating in 2003. She has been an associate attorney at two law firms: Morrison & Foerster and Davis Polk & Wardwell. In total, her acting career lasted from 1984 until 1992, making it far shorter than her law career. quitting celebrity Currently, McKellar is focusing on her legal career and has no plans to return to acting.

 

Jeffrey Allen “Skunk” Baxter

Formerly From: Guitarist of Steely Dan

Currently: Defense Consultant, US Dept. of Defense

Net Worth: $6 million*

Jeff Baxter, best known as a former member of the rock band Steely Dan, has found success in an unlikely place: as a consultant for the US Department of Defense. Baxter got his start in the missile industry almost by accident. He was investigating new music recording tech when he came across software written for missile programs. Intrigued, he taught himself about missile technology and wrote a five-page paper about converting the Aegis anti-aircraft missile into a different defense system.

His paper caught the eye of a Congressman, who put him in touch with DoD professionals. Baxter quickly became a respected authority on missile defense, and he now uses his celebrity status to help promote awareness of the importance of Missile Defense

 

Danny Lloyd

Formerly From: The Shining

Currently: Biology Professor

Net Worth: $400,000*

Danny Lloyd is a celebrity best known for his role in the Stanley Kubrick horror classic The Shining. After his star-making role, however, Lloyd left acting never to return (though yes, he did have a small cameo in the recent Shining sequel Doctor Sleep). Currently, Lloyd is a biology professor in Elizabethtown, KY, teaching at Elizabethtown Community & Technical College.

Quitting acting to pursue a career in academics may seem like an odd choice, but for Danny Lloyd it was the right one. And we’re glad he’s currently doing what he loves!

 

Carrie Henn

Formerly From: Aliens

Currently: Teacher

Net Worth: $1 million*

When Carrie Henn was just ten years old, she landed the role of a lifetime in James Cameron’s Aliens. opposite Sigourney Weaver. The movie was a massive hit, grossing over $180 million at the box office and becoming one of the most iconic sci-fi films of all time.

For Henn, however, it would turn out to be her only major role. After appearing in a few small independent films, she retired from acting altogether in 2006. So what has the now-38-year-old Henn been up to since then? Well, for starters, she’s gotten a college education. Henn earned her degree in 2000, studying child development and liberal studies.

 

Omri Katz

Formerly From: Hocus Pocus

Currently: Hairdresser

Net Worth: $1 million*

Omri Katz’s acting career spanned almost two decades, from 1983 until 2002. During that time, he appeared in some memorable films and TV shows, including Hocus Pocus, Adventures in Dinosaur City, and Dallas. His role as John Ross III on Dallas was one of his longest-running gigs, appearing on the show from 1983 until 1991.

These days, Katz is a hairdresser. He splits his time between Israel and Los Angeles, and occasionally gives interviews about his role in Hocus Pocus – which has become something of a Halloween cult classic. There’s no word yet on whether he’ll be involved in a potential reboot of the film, but we’re keeping our fingers crossed!

 

Peter Billingsley

Formerly From: A Christmas Story

Currently: Producer/Director

Net Worth: $10 million*

Pete Billingsley, best known for his roles in classic films like A Christmas Story and The Dirt Bike Kid, has had a long and successful career in Hollywood. But now, at the age of 46, he’s decided to quit acting and focus on his new role as a producer and director.

Billingsley made the announcement earlier this week, saying that he’s “hated every minute” of acting and that it’s “time to move on.” He also said that he’s grateful for all the opportunities he’s had over the years but that he’s ready to focus on his new passions. Billingsley has already had a lot of success as a producer, with credits on hit films like Elf, Iron Man, and Couples Retreat. He’s also currently working on a new project with his production company, which he says he’s “really excited about.”

 

Barret Oliver

Formerly From: The NeverEnding Story

Currently: Photography Teacher

Net Worth: $400,000*

Barret Oliver was a celebrity child actor who is best known for his role as Balthazar in The NeverEnding Story. He also had roles in Cocoon (and the sequel) and D.A.R.Y.L. After finishing acting, with his last role taking place in the feature movie Scenes from the Class Struggle in Beverly Hills in 1989, he took up photography. He discovered that he was actually pretty good at it.

He specializes in nineteenth-century processing, like Woodburytype and collodion. His work has found a place in museums, gallery exhibitions, and movies, and he even published a collection of his photos, called A History of the Woodburytype, in 2010. These days, he’s still involved in photography, and he currently resides in California.

 

Travis Tedford

Formerly From: The Little Rascals

Currently: Inbound Marketing Specialist

Net Worth: $500,000*

Travis Tedford is a celebrity in his own right. The former actor’s career spanned from 1994 until 2010, when he decided to quit acting. He is best known for his role as Spanky in “The Little Rascals.” In addition to his work in film, Tedford also had some very well-known Welch’s grape juice commercials during his career.

Since quitting acting, Tedford has gone on to become a marketer specializing in inbound marketing. He graduated from Trinity Valley Community College with an associate’s in liberal arts back in 2008, which set him up nicely for his current occupation.

 

Hank Aaron

Formerly From: Baseball Player

Currently: Fast-Food Franchise Owner

Net Worth: $25 million*

Hank Aaron is one of the greatest baseball players of all time. He is a former MLB right-fielder who played twenty-one seasons in the MLB, playing for the Braves and Brewers. For more than three decades, he held the MLB record for home runs. He still holds several offensive records still.

Aaron, after retirement, decided to go into business to keep his money incoming. He worked for the Braves as an executive before becoming a fast food restaurant franchisee. He still resides in the Atlanta area, the same as he did when he was playing (save for two seasons with Milwaukee).Today, Hank Aaron is still involved in business, celebrity appearances, and philanthropy. He is an inspiration to many, proving that it’s never too late to change gears and try something new. We can all learn a lot from Hank Aaron’s example!

 

Julia Stiles

Formerly From: Save the Last Dance

Currently: Philanthropist

Net Worth: $8 million*

Julia Stiles found fame as a teen actor in the late ’90s and early noughties, appearing in smash hits like Save the Last Dance and 10 Things I Hate About You. However, after a few years she started appearing in less and less movies.

This was an intentional break on Stiles’ part; instead of getting in front of a camera, she decided to focus on her philanthropic pursuits, working closely with charities like Habitat for Humanity and Amnesty International. After spending some time working a regular job, Stiles returned to the screen in 2017 with Riviera. Since then, she has appeared in several other films and TV shows.

 

Monica Lewinsky

Formerly From: Political Intern

Currently: Activist, Author

Net Worth: $1.5 million*

Monica Lewinsky is a celebrity, but she’s also so much more than that. She’s a powerful advocate for change, and she’s currently using her platform to speak out against cyberbullying and other forms of public brutality.

Lewinsky first came to the public’s attention during the media scandal that unfairly centered her in the middle of a public frenzy. But instead of quitting and retreating from the spotlight, she used that experience to empower herself. She went back to school and got a degree in psychology, arming herself with the knowledge to change the world.

 

Hillary Duff

Formerly From: Lizzie McGuire

Currently: Actress, Fashion Line Owner

Net Worth: $25 million*

Hilary Duff was one of the most beloved actresses on the Disney network. She starred in the super-popular kids’ show, Lizzie McGuire, and she’s appeared in a handful of projects since then, with the most recent being The Haunting of Sharon Tate and How I Met Your Father, a show she currently stars in and produces. In addition to working as a producer, Duff also has had several of her own fashion lines. She has had her turn as a fashion entrepreneur with collections like Muse x Hilary Duff, a collaborative line with the eyewear company, GlassesUSA.

Recently, Hilary made headlines when she announced that she was quitting acting. In an interview with Cosmopolitan, Hilary said, “I’ve been doing this for a really long time and I love it. But I also have other things that I’m passionate about.” Hilary has mentioned her work as a producer and fashion entrepreneur as two of her main passions outside of acting.

 

Chrissy Teigen

Formerly From: Supermodel

Currently: Cookbook Author

Net Worth: $75 million*

Chrissy Teigen is one celebrity who is currently in the process of quitting Twitter. The model and mother is instead focusing on her second career as a cookbook author. Co-written with Israeli cookbook author Adeena Sussman, Teigen’s most popular cookbook Cravings: Hungry for More is all about comfort food.

The celebrity has received mixed reactions for her decision to quit Twitter. Some understand her need for a break from the negativity that can be found online, while others are sad to see her go. Regardless, it seems that Teigen is sticking to her decision and won’t be active on the platform anytime soon.

 

Kate Hudson

Formerly From: Almost Famous

Currently: Fabletics

Net Worth: $80 million*

Kate Hudson is a celebrity who knows a thing or two about quitting. Currently, she’s left Hollywood behind to focus on her athleticwear brand, Fabletics. But years before leggings were fully acceptable to wear outside the house, Kate Hudson was planning her brand’s success.

When it comes to quitting, Kate Hudson is something of an expert. After all, she famously quit acting in order to pursue her passion for fashion. And she’s certainly not the only celebrity to have done so. In recent years, a number of other celebrities have also taken the leap from Hollywood to the retail world.

 

Tom Selleck

Formerly From: Magnum, P.I.

Currently: Avocado Farming

Net Worth: $45 million*

Selleck’s celebrity status means he could probably quit acting altogether and just live off his Avocado farm. In fact, he has joked about doing just that on David Letterman’s show.

However, the actor seems to genuinely enjoy working on the farm and doesn’t seem to be in any hurry to give up his day job just yet. Who knows, maybe he’ll eventually come around to the taste of avocados! Either way, we’re sure he’ll continue to be a success in whatever he decides to do.

 

Rita Wilson

Formerly From: Sleepless in Seattle

Currently: Huffington Post Editor

Net Worth: $100 million*

Rita Wilson is one celebrity who knows a thing or two about quitting. She’s currently in the process of quitting smoking, and she’s been very open about her struggles. Wilson has said that she decided to quit after realizing that she didn’t want her grandchildren to see her smoking. She also said that she wanted to set a good example for other people who are trying to quit.

So far, Wilson has been using nicotine gum to help with the cravings. She says that it’s been tough, but she’s determined to stick with it. We admire Rita Wilson for her courage in sharing her story and for her determination to quit smoking. We hope that her example will inspire others who are trying to kick the habit.

 

Madonna

Formerly From: Popstar

Currently: Children’s Book Author

Net Worth: $850 million*

Madonna, the celebrity Queen of Pop, has quit music to focus on writing children’s books that explain Kabbalah, a type of Jewish mysticism. The singer announced her new career plans in an Instagram post, saying that she is “currently working on something very special.”

Madonna has always been interested in Kabbalah and has been studyinig it for years. She hopes that by sharing her knowledge through children’s books, she can help others learn about this ancient wisdom tradition.

 

Hill Harper

Formerly From: The Good Doctor

Currently: Personal Finance Author

Net Worth: $12 million*

Sometimes, celebrity status doesn’t always mean big bucks. In fact, some celebrities are just like us when it comes to their finances. They have to budget, save, and be mindful of their spending habits.

That’s why it can be so refreshing to hear tips on personal finance from celebrities who have been in our shoes before. They know what it’s like to live paycheck to paycheck, and they’ve also experienced the financial ups and downs that come with fame and fortune. One celebrity who is currently sharing his wealth of knowledge on personal finance is actor Hill Harper. Harper has starred in hit TV shows like CSI: NY and The Good Doctor, and he’s also an accomplished author. In one of his books, The Wealth Cure, Harper opens up about his own journey to financial freedom.

 

Rihanna

Formerly From: Popstar

Currently: Fenty Beauty

Net Worth: $1 billion*

It’s no secret that Rihanna is one of the biggest celebrities in the world. But what you might not know is that she’s currently taking a break from music. That’s right, despite being one of the highest-paid female musicians in the world, Rihanna hasn’t released any new music in years.

So what has she been up to? Well, for starters, she’s been busy building a fashion and beauty empire. Her line, Fenty Beauty, is all about inclusivity, with products that cater to a wide range of skin tones. And her affordable prices make her products accessible to everyone – something that was sorely lacking in the beauty industry.

 

Tracee Ellis Ross

Formerly From: Black-ish

Currently: Pattern Haircare

Net Worth: $16 million*

Tracee Ellis Ross is a celebrity who knows a thing or two about quitting. The actress and daughter of music legend Diana Ross recently spoke out about quitting her day job in order to pursue her passion for hair care.

“I was working a day job and I just decided that I couldn’t do it anymore,” Ross said. “I quit my job and started my own haircare line.” Ross’s new haircare line, Pattern, is currently available online and in select stores. The line focuses on offering high-quality, affordable products for the everywoman. “I’m so passionate about this project because I believe that every woman deserves to have great hair,” Ross said. “And I’m committed to making that happen.”

 

Rob Lowe

Formerly From: St. Elmo’s Fire, The West Wing

Currently: Skincare brand

Net Worth: $100 million*

Rob Lowe’s career has spanned more than three decades, and he shows no signs of slowing down. He first came to prominence as a member of the Brat Pack in the 1980s, but his career really took off in the 1990s with his role in The West Wing. After a few years out of the spotlight, he made a comeback with his role in Parks and Recreation, and he’s been working steadily ever since.

Currently, Lowe is focusing on his skincare brand, Profile. But even with this new venture, he hasn’t forgotten about his acting roots. He recently said that he would never quit acting, as it’s something that he loves to do. We’re sure we’ll be seeing plenty more of Lowe in the years to come.

 

Nicki Minaj

Formerly From: Rapper

Currently: MYX Fusions

Net Worth: $80 million*

One of the most prolific female rappers of all time is currently quitting the celebrity life. Nicki Minaj, who has more top singles on the Billboard charts than any other female rapper, is reportedly done with the celebrity lifestyle. According to sources close to the rapper, she is “tired of the spotlight” and is ready to focus on her business ventures.

Minaj has tried her hand at acting, lending her voice to movies such as The Angry Birds Movie 2 and Ice Age: Continental Drift. She even judged on a season of American Idol. Minaj’s latest venture is a moscato wine called MYX Fusions, which she co-owns with a business partner.

 

Venus Williams

Formerly From: Professional Tennis Player

Currently: V Starr Interiors

Net Worth: $95 million*

Venus Williams is a celebrity in her own right, but she is also known for quitting tennis. Currently, she is the CEO of an interior design firm. The Florida-based company has gone on to design the storefronts of many local shops, as well as the sets of television shows and other miscellaneous projects.

While Venus Williams may be best known when talked about with her younger sister Serena, she has held world number one tennis titles in her own right. The pair were raised on tennis, training and competing from a young age, and having each other to practice with.  However, the older Williams sister does still play, she has her sights set on other business ventures, such as her interior design firm.

 

Susan Sarandon

Formerly From: Thelma & Louise

Currently: SPiN Ping Pong club owner

Net Worth: $60 million*

Susan Sarandon may have started out as a celebrity on a soap opera, but she quickly made a name for herself with her roles in movies like Rocky Horror Picture Show and The Client. These days, she’s more focused on philanthropy and political activism. But that doesn’t mean she’s quit showbiz altogether.

In fact, she currently runs a chain of successful Ping Pong clubs with her former romantic partner. Though they’re no longer together, they continue to run the business successfully. So if you’re ever in New York City or Toronto, be sure to check out one of Sarandon’s clubs! You might just get lucky and see the celebrity herself.

 

Erykah Badu

Formerly From: Singer

Currently: Doula

Net Worth: $10 million*

Erykah Badu is a celebrity who quitting currently. The Texas native was discovered in her home state, and got her to start performing with D’Angelo. Nowadays, Badu has put her energy into other creative pursuits such as acting and appearing in such films as The Cider House Rules and What Men Want.

She also has begun helping women bring children into the world, working as a doula and advocating for what women want.

 

Drew Barrymore

Formerly From: E.T.

Currently: Flower Beauty

Net Worth: $125 million*

Drew Barrymore is one of the richest actresses in the world, but she didn’t start out that way. The former child actress started appearing on camera at just eleven months old, and has been acting consistently since. While she’s delved into the fashion world and other artistic industries, one of Barrymore’s more successful ventures has been her makeup brand, Flower Beauty. The cosmetics line has even grown to include a perfume and eyewear.

Barrymore is currently worth an estimated $125 million, but she almost quit acting altogether in the early 2000s. In an interview with Oprah Winfrey, the actress revealed that she was “miserable” and “unhappy” with her life. Thankfully, she decided to stick with it and has since found success both on and off the screen.

 

George Clooney

Formerly From: Ocean’s Eleven

Currently: Casamigos Tequila

Net Worth: $500 million*

George Clooney is one of Hollywood’s favorite actors. He’s known for his roles in Up in the Air and the Ocean’s series. Clooney has taken a step back from acting to be more of a family man after his marriage to Amal Alamuddin.

He doesn’t currently have any movie projects lined up, but he is still involved in business. With a business partner, Clooney created Casamigos Tequila. The company was sold for nearly a billion dollars. Clooney is now focusing on his family and enjoying life outside of the spotlight.

 

Nick Offerman

Formerly From: Parks and Recreation

Currently: Woodworker

Net Worth: $25 million*

If you’re a fan of Nick Offerman, you know that he’s an incredible woodworker. What you may not know is that he’s actually thinking about quitting his day job to pursue woodworking full time.

Offerman currently has his own woodshop where he crafts everything from furniture to canoes. But according to recent interviews, he’s considering quitting acting in order to work in his shop full time. This wouldn’t be the first time a celebrity has quit their day job to pursue their passion. In fact, it seems like more and more celebrities are doing this every year. So if Nick Offerman does decide to make the jump, he’ll definitely have some company.

 

Armie Hammer

Formerly From: Call Me By Your Name

Currently: Bakery Owner

Net Worth: $180 million*

It’s no secret that celebrity lifestyles can be pretty lavish. From private jets to designer clothes, they have access to the best of the best. But what happens when a celebrity decides to quit the glamorous lifestyle and go into business?

Take Armie Hammer for instance. heir to oil tycoon Armand Hammer of Occidental Petroleum, he could have easily rested on his laurels and never worked a day in his life. But instead, he pursued acting and even starred in some iconic films like The Social Network. In 2012, he went into business with his then wife Elizabeth Chambers and opened up a San Antonio bakery called BIRD Bakery. The concept was to serve baked goods that came from Chambers’ grandmother’s recipes. Everything was going well until allegations of less than savory behavior broke out in 2021.

 

Ryan Reynolds

Formerly From: The Proposal

Currently: Aviation Gin

Net Worth: $150 million*

Though Ryan Reynolds is currently best known as a Hollywood celebrity, he actually got his start in the Canadian entertainment industry. He first found success on a teen soap opera before making the jump to Hollywood movies. In recent years, Reynolds has become one of the biggest action stars in the world.

But now it seems that Reynolds is ready to quit Hollywood and branch out into other areas. He recently acquired a Welsh soccer team and is also currently involved in the gin industry. It looks like celebrity isn’t just a one-time thing for Reynolds – he’s here to stay!

 

Reese Witherspoon

Formerly From: Legally Blonde

Currently: Hello Sunshine

Net Worth: $240 million*

Reese Witherspoon is one of the most successful actresses of all time. She has starred in movies across all genres, demonstrating great range. In recent years, she has become more interested in producing films and television shows that tell women’s stories. In 2021, she sold her production company, Hello Sunshine, for a sizable sum.

While some may see this as quitting while she’s ahead, Reese is currently focusing on other projects that are important to her. She remains one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood and we’re sure we’ll be seeing more great things from her in the future.

 

Karlie Kloss

Formerly From: Model

Currently: Kode With Klossy

Net Worth: $40 million*

Karlie Kloss is a celebrity model who has done something few others have done before: she’s used her platform to champion women’s education in science and technology. Kloss previously was a Victoria’s Secret angel, but she quit to go to university.  Since then, she has created the camp Kode With Klossy, which aims to teach girls how to code and become proficient in computer science, preparing them for careers down the line.

It has been a great success so far, getting girls excited about learning about computers. Kloss is currently working on expanding her camp so that even more girls can benefit from its amazing program.

 

Jane Seymour

Formerly From: Live and Let Die

Currently: Open Hearts jewelry design

Net Worth: $60 million*

Celebrity Jane Seymour first rose to fame in the movie Live and Let Die, playing the character of Solitaire. The English actress has had a massive oeuvre of work both across the pond and here in America.

In addition to acting, Seymour has also tried her hand at fashion design, and went on to make waves in the world of jewelry design. Her “Open Heart Collection” was sold at Kay Jewellers, and the same year of its release she wrote a book about keeping your heart open. Currently, Seymour is focusing on her art. She recently opened up a new art studio in Los Angeles, and has been busy painting and sculpting. celebrity quitting acting to focus on other interests is nothing new – we’ve seen it happen time and time again

 

Gwyneth Paltrow

Formerly From: Shakespeare in Love

Currently: Goop

Net Worth: $160 million*

Gwyneth Paltrow is a celebrity in many circles. Not only is she an Academy Award-winning actress, but she’s also a successful businesswoman, author, and goop founder. While she’s currently enjoying success in all of these areas, there was a time when she nearly quit acting altogether.

Paltrow comes from a Hollywood pedigree – her mother is actress Blythe Danner – so it’s no surprise that she found her way to the big screen. But after winning an Oscar for her role in Shakespeare in Love, Paltrow seriously considered quitting acting. In an interview with Vogue UK, she said: “For a while I thought, ‘Gosh, maybe I should give up acting. Maybe I should go run Goop.'”

 

Emily Ratajkowski

Formerly From: Model

Currently: Enamorata swim

Net Worth: $8 million*

As a celebrity, Emily Ratajkowski has had a lot of success. She’s appeared in Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue, and she’s also made money from paid advertisements on Instagram. But now, it looks like she’s quitting showbusiness to focus on her own swimwear brand.

Ratajkowski has always been a model, but she first rose to prominence after appearing in the music video for Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines”. Since then, she’s become something of an Instagram influencer, with millions of followers. And while she’s landed acting roles and other gigs in showbusiness, it seems like she’s ready to move on.

 

Lenny Kravitz

Formerly From: Musician

Currently: Kravitz Design, Inc.

Net Worth: $80 million*

Lenny Kravitz is a celebrity who has quit the music industry in order to pursue a career in interior design. He currently has several high-profile clients, including hotel groups like The Setai Resort and Residences as well as the Morgans Hotel Group.

His unique style defies genre, making him a popular choice for clients looking for something different. If you’re looking for a celebrity designer with a fresh perspective, Lenny Kravitz is your man.

 

Monica Lewinsky

Formerly From: Political Intern

Currently: Activist, Author

Net Worth: $1.5 million*

Monica Lewinsky was once one of the most famous people in the world, but she’s now using her celebrity status to advocate for better treatment of women. The former political intern turned celebrity became the subject of a media frenzy after her affair with President Clinton. However, instead of succumbing to the negative attention, Lewinsky used her experience to become a powerful voice for change.

After attending graduate school for psychology, Lewinsky returned to the public eye armed with the knowledge to make a difference. She’s given TED talks, written books and think pieces for major publications, and spoken out against cyberbullying and other forms of public brutality. In doing so, Lewinsky has shown that it’s possible to turn trauma into work that can help others.

 

Keanu Reeves

Formerly From: The Matrix

Currently: Founder, Arch Motorcycles

Net Worth: $258 million*

Keanu Reeves is currently one of the biggest names in Hollywood, thanks to his roles in movies like The Matrix and the John Wick franchise. The action hero has managed to amass quite the fortune, but that hasn’t stopped him from creating a back-up career. Alongside Gard Hollinger, Reeves established Arch Motorcycle Company in 2011.

They produce motorcycles that are well-liked by enthusiasts. So, while Keanu won’t be quitting acting any time soon, he certainly has his hands full off set, too. Action hero by day, CEO by night.

 

Terrence Howard

Formerly From: Empire

Currently: Producer

Net Worth: $5 million*

It’s always sad when a celebrity announces their retirement, especially when it’s someone we’ve grown to love seeing on the big (or small) screen. Such was the case when Empire actor Terrence Howard announced his retirement after the hit show came to an end.

Howard stated that he was “tired of pretending” when it came to acting, and he felt that his heart was no longer in it. Despite that proclamation, Howard has starred in a couple of movies and TV shows since. He has hinted that he will likely work as a producer going forward.

 

Steve Burns

Formerly From: Blues Clues

Currently: Musician

Net Worth: $12 million*

It’s been over 20 years since Steve Burns graced our screens as the beloved host of Blues Clues, but it seems like he’s never really left our hearts. Recently, a video of him addressing all of the now-adults who watched him on the show when they were children went viral, and in it, he spoke directly to the audience, saying, “After all these years I never forgot about you. Ever.”

It’s clear that Steve still holds a special place in many people’s hearts, even though he quit the show abruptly to pursue music and get away from his children’s show persona. In fact, he even trended on Twitter after the video aired on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

 

Bridget Fonda

Formerly From: Single White Female

Currently: Actress

Net Worth: $37 million*

Bridget Fonda is part of a true acting dynasty, so it’s only natural that she would join the business herself. Fonda did well for herself, starring in numerous hits like Single White Female and It Could Happen To You. However, despite her success, Fonda retired from the screen in 2002.

Fonda ended up marrying longtime Tim Burton collaborator and composer Danny Elfman around the same time, which largely contributed to her decision to step out of the limelight. It’s not clear what Bridget does with her time these days, but fans were shocked when she was spotted for the first time in 12 years in 2014. She looked healthy and happy, leading many to speculate that she may have come out of retirement.

 

Hillary Duff

Formerly From: Lizzie McGuire

Currently: Actress, Fashion Line Owner

Net Worth: $25 million*

Producer and celebrity Hilary Duff have had a successful career in both acting and fashion. Recently, she’s taken on the role of producer for the show “How I Met Your Father.” She’s also currently working on her own fashion line. However, it seems that she may be quitting acting soon. In an interview, Duff said that she’s “kind of done” with acting.

She feels like she’s accomplished everything she wanted to in that field. This doesn’t mean that we won’t see her onscreen again – she’s still going to produce shows and work on her fashion line. But it does seem like her days as an actress are numbered.

 

Whitney Port

Formerly From: The Hills

Currently: Fashion designer and influencer

Net Worth: $5 million*

Whitney Port is one celebrity who has managed to stick to her career goals. After appearing on The Hills, she took some time off to pursue her true passion: fashion design. She currently has her own line of clothing and runs a successful blog.

What’s even more impressive is that she’s managed to do all of this without quitting her day job! Port is truly an inspiration for anyone who wants to follow their dreams.

 

JoJo Siwa

Formerly From: Dance Moms

Currently: Singer and YouTuber

Net Worth: $20 million*

JoJo Siwa is a celebrity who is currently quitting her two-season career on Dance Moms. The teenager is a pop culture phenomenon, making youth-centric content that pretty much every kid is obsessed with.

Siwa has her own line of fashion products, toys, games, and more, and she got her start with two mega-hit singles, “Kid in a Candy Store” and “Boomerang.” In addition to sold-out kids’ shows, the eighteen-year-old also posts about her life on her YouTube channel called “It’s JoJo Siwa.” She has 12.2 million subscribers to her vlog, with a total of 3.7 billion views.

 

Bethenney Frankel

Formerly From: The Real Housewives of New York City

Currently: Entrepreneur and business owner

Net Worth: $80 million*

Bethenny Frankel was one of the most outspoken and controversial housewives on The Real Housewives of New York. Though she was often at the center of drama, she was also a fan favorite. Now, she has a net worth of $80 million. However, her stint on reality TV is not her only source of income. In fact, it’s just a small part of it. The majority of her wealth comes from her business ventures, particularly her cocktail company, Skinnygirl.

Frankel started Skinnygirl in order to provide low-calorie cocktails and recipes to people who wanted to drink without all the guilt. And when she sold the company in 2011, she made a whopping $100 million. Though she no longer owns Skinnygirl, she still uses the logo for her other products and lines. That’s because she still owns the license to it. And that’s how she continues to make millions, even though she’s no longer on TV.

 

Prince Lorenzo Borghese

Formerly From: The Bachelor

Currently: Cosmetics entrepreneur

Net Worth: $50 million*

Prince Lorenzo Borghese, who is an actual Italian prince, was born in Milan. In 2006, he starred on The Bachelor’s ninth season, and, well, things didn’t exactly work out. Three years later, he started his own web reality show, America’s Next Princess, to find his happily-ever-after, but, when it was released Borghese’s show was actually a satire on reality TV shows.

Borghese, in addition to being a failed Bachelor, is a cosmetics entrepreneur. He started the Royal Treatment, a bath and skincare line for pets. The line uses all-organic ingredients and Italian fragrance oils, and it is found in high-end pet stores across the country.  He’s currently in the process of quitting his celebrity life and moving back to Italy to take over his family’s business. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors!

 

Paris Hilton

Formerly From: The Simple Life

Currently: Businesswoman and investor

Net Worth: $300 million*

Hilton rose to fame on her reality show The Simple Life, where she starred as herself alongside Nicole Richie. As time went on, Hilton stepped away from the television spotlight (and movie spotlight, as she also filmed House of Wax) and focused more on the business side of her income.

Though she inherited the Hilton Hotel empire, Paris has made her own fortune. She owns a mega-company with forty-five branded stores and nineteen products. Her handbag and perfume collections are two of her most successful, with the perfume lines raking in $2 billion in gross revenue. Hilton has currently shifted her focus to philanthropy. She has started the Paris Hilton Foundation to support a number of causes, including animal welfare and disaster relief.

 

Francis Ford Coppola

Formerly From: The Godfather (dir.)

Currently: Vintner and business owner

Net Worth: $3.6 billion*

Francis Ford Coppola is one of the most celebrity directors of all time. He’s quit making movies and now resides in Napa, where he is a vintner, owning his own family brand of wines and a winery. His other commercial ventures, in addition to Inglenook Winery, are under the “Francis Ford Coppola Presents” umbrella.

With this lifestyle brand, Coppola markets goods from businesses that he either owns or has a huge stake in. Francis Ford Coppola Presents includes food, videos, a literary magazine, cafes, and more. He currently has a net worth of $3.6 billion.

 

Cindy Crawford

Formerly From: Supermodel

Currently: Home goods/furniture designer

Net Worth: $400 million*

Cindy Crawford was one of the most popular supermodels in the world in the 1990s. She graced the covers of magazines, starred in fashion campaigns, and strutted her stuff on runways around the globe. Now, at age 56, she has moved on from modeling to focus on her business ventures.

In the early 2000s, Crawford launched her own line of beauty products. That same year, she debuted the Cindy Crawford Home Collection, a line of furniture made in collaboration with HM Richards Inc. She also has lines of furniture and home goods with J.C. Penney, Rooms to Go, and Raymour & Flanigan. Most recently, in 2019, Crawford and her husband Rande Gerber (a businessman) launched a line of premium tequilas called Casamigos. The couple sold the company to Diageo for $1 billion just four years later.

 

Bryan Cranston

Formerly From: Breaking Bad

Currently: Still acting, also an author and philanthropist

Net Worth: $40 million*

Bryan Cranston is a celebrity who is currently quitting acting. He is best known for his role as Walter White on Breaking Bad, a crime drama. He won several Emmys for the series, which he also produced. Though he is still acting, he has branched out. Cranston wrote a memoir about his life, titled A Life in Parts.

Published in the fall of 2016, it became a NYT bestseller, receiving positive reviews from critics, who generally are so-so about celebrity memoirs. The actor also is involved in charity, presenting at the Broadway Cares/Equity Fights Aids competition with his fellow actors.

 

Kanye West

Formerly From: Producing Jay-Z’s music

Currently: Music, fashion design, tech, producing

Net Worth: $1.8 billion*

Kanye West is a celebrity who is currently in the news for quitting social media. He has made headlines in the past for his music, fashion, and tech entrepreneurship. West has come a long way since he was producing music for Jay-Z’s Roc-A-Fella Records in the early 2000s. Yeezy is Kanye’s fashion line, and its shoes sell out within minutes after they drop, as do the line’s clothing. In addition to fashion, Kanye owns GOOD Music, a record label that has backed artists like Big Sean, John Legend, Pusha T, Mos Def, and Common.

Basically, there are very few industries that Kanye West hasn’t conquered. But it looks like he’s done with social media for now – at least, that’s what he says. Only time will tell if Kanye really sticks to his word this time.

 

Lena Dunham

Formerly From: Girls

Currently: Feminst activist, author, being a mom

Net Worth: $12 million*

Lena Dunham, the celebrity actress and writer, has focused on her activism and writing in recent years. She is currently working on her second book, Camping. Prior to this, she ran a feminist newsletter called Lenny Letter. In 2013, she released her first book, Not That Kind of Girl. Lena Dunham has won several Emmys for her work on the show Girls.

Dunham has been a celebrity since she was quite young. She gained notoriety for being open and honest about her body and her sexuality. This led to some criticism from people who felt that she was oversexualized. However, Dunham has always been a strong advocate for women’s rights and sexual liberation.

 

Tony Danza

Formerly From: Who’s the Boss?

Currently: Author and teacher

Net Worth: $40 million*

If you’re a celebrity, it’s pretty much expected that you’ll quit your day job at some point to pursue Hollywood stardom. But Tony Danza took a different path. After a successful career in boxing, he decided to give acting a try – and found he was pretty good at it.

He’s starred on hit shows like Who’s the Boss? and Taxi, and has won multiple awards for his work. Currently, he’s teaching an English class at a high school in Philadelphia – and loving it. So if you’re thinking of quitting your day job to pursue your dreams, take a page from Tony Danza’s book and consider teaching instead. It just might be the best decision you ever make.

 

Ann Curry

Formerly From: The Today Show

Currently: Media startup owner

Net Worth: $10 million*

Ann Curry’s celebrity status was cemented during her more than three decades as a reporter, with much of her work focusing on human interest pieces. But in recent years, Curry has made headlines for quitting her job as co-anchor of NBC’s “Today” show and leaving the network altogether to start her own media company.

Curry is currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to her new role as producer and host of the PBS series “We’ll Meet Again with Ann Curry.” The show features Curry conducting interviews with high-profile guests, many of whom are celebrities themselves. Thanks to her celebrity status and willingness to speak her mind, Curry’s show has become must-see TV for many viewers.

 

Greta Garbo

Formerly From: Camille

Currently: Deceased

Net Worth: $63 million*

Greta Garbo was one of the most celebrated actresses of her time. She was known for her intense, melancholic persona on screen, and her ability to create understated, moving performances. Garbo’s film resume includes classics like Mata Hari, Grand Hotel, Anna Karenina, Camille, and Ninotchka.

In 1941, at the age of 35, Garbo retired from acting. She had her ups and downs in Hollywood, and the press had (rather unkindly) labeled her “box office poison” on more than one occasion. After quitting Hollywood, Garbo became an art collector and led a fiercely private life. When she died in 1990, her collection was worth millions.

 

Cynthia Nixon

Formerly From: Sex and the City

Currently: Attempted politician, SATC reboot

Net Worth: $25 million*

Cynthia Nixon is a celebrity who is currently quitting her acting career to focus on politics. In 2018, she announced her campaign to become the Governor of New York. She challenged incumbent Andrew Cuomo, and her platform focused on the issues important to her.

Nixon lost to Cuomo in 2018, getting 34% of the vote compared to the incumbent’s 66%. Nixon is still an activist, and she is a strong advocate for LGBTQ rights. In 2018, the Human Rights Campaign gave her a “Visibility Award” for her work in promoting equality.

 

Leah McSweeney

Formerly From: The Real Housewives of New York City

Currently: Fashion designer, reality star

Net Worth: $3.5 million*

Leah McSweeney is a celebrity like no other. She’s currently starring on The Real Housewives of New York, but before that, she was a fashion designer who quit her successful career to venture into reality television.

Many people might think that Leah is crazy for giving up her successful career in fashion design to appear on a reality TV show. However, Leah says that she’s always been a risk-taker and she loves the challenge of something new. Plus, being on TV has given her a chance to connect with fans in a whole new way.

 

Candace Cameron-Bure

Formerly From: Full House

Currently: Author, Hallmark Channel actress

Net Worth: $14 million*

Candace Cameron Bure was a celebrity in her own right long before she ever stepped foot on the Dancing with the Stars stage. She starred in Full House, one of the most successful family sitcoms in recent times, as DJ Tanner. After playing DJ, she then worked for the Hallmark Channel, appearing in their holiday movies and in the Aurora Teagarden movie adaptation.

In 2014, Bure was a contestant on Dancing with the Stars, finishing third. In addition to her acting career, she is also a published author, having written four books: Reshaping It All, Balancing It All, Dancing Through Life, and Kind is the New Classy.

 

Amanda Bynes

Formerly From: The Amanda Show

Currently: Dealing with personal issues

Net Worth: $3 million*

Amanda Bynes made a name for herself as a celebrity child actress. She appeared on The Amanda Show, a spinoff of All That, and played Holly on What I Like About You. Bynes made her film debut in her mid-teens and went on to star in movies like Big Fat Liar, Robots, What a Girl Wants, She’s the Man, Hairspray, and Easy-A.

However, Easy-A was one of Bynes’ last successful projects. The actress has struggled with mental health and substance abuse issues for over a decade. She is currently under a family-controlled conservatorship but has recently filed petitions to have that removed.

 

Doris Day

Formerly From: The Doris Day Show

Currently: Deceased

Net Worth: $200 million*

Doris Day is a celebrity who is currently retired from acting. She was one of the biggest film stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood, starring in major blockbuster hits with famous male actors like Cary Grant and Frank Sinatra. In 1968, Day ended her movie career and started her own television show, The Doris Day Show.

That didn’t last, and she instead founded several animal welfare organizations, including the Doris Day Animal Foundation. As she steps away from the spotlight, we take a look back at her life and career.

 

Mauricio Umansky

Formerly From: The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills

Currently: Runs The Agency

Net Worth: $100 million*

Mauricio Umansky may be best known as Kyle Richards’ husband on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, but he is also a successful businessman in his own right. The Mexican real estate entrepreneur has a net worth of $100 million and is the founder of the billion-dollar brokerage firm The Agency.

Additionally, actress and reality star Kyle is worth $100 million herself. Though some of the Real Housewives’ marriages haven’t exactly gone well over the years, Richards and Umansky are still going strong. In 2021, they celebrated their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary – making them one of the longest-married celebrity couples currently.

 

Natalie Portman

Formerly From: V for Vendetta

Currently: Still acting, also an activist and ambassador

Net Worth: $90 million*

Natalie Portman has had a lengthy celebrity film career, quitting movies since she was in her teen years. She became famous as part of the Star Wars franchise, and her celebrity career progressed after that, with her attaining starring parts in V for Vendetta, The Other Boleyn Girl, Black Swan, and Thor.

Portman is an activist and ambassador when she isn’t acting. She is a vegan, and she traveled to Rwanda to film a documentary about gorillas being endangered. In the early 2000s, she was the “Ambassador of Hope” for FINCA International, traveling to Guatemala, Uganda, and Ecuador to promote the organization. Currently, Natalie Portman is an ambassador for Free The Children, an international charity and educational partner. She has also been a celebrity spokesperson for Coach, Inc. since 2016.

 

Millie Bobby Brown

Formerly From: Stranger Things

Currently: Acting, working for UNICEF, beauty line owner

Net Worth: $10 million*

Celebrity Millie Bobby Brown is one of the most influential actresses in the world, even though she is only eighteen years old. She became famous when she starred in Stranger Things (and she still is on the show, as the fourth season is set to come out this year). She has also been in the films Godzilla: King of the Monsters, Godzilla vs. Kong, and Enola Holmes, the latter of which she also produced. Brown was appointed by UNICEF as a Goodwill Ambassador. At the time, she was the youngest person ever selected for the position. In addition to being a philanthropist, Brown also owns her own UK beauty line called Florence by Mills.

Brown recently announced that she would be quitting social media. In a statement, she said that social media has “created an environment for false narratives to exist and for negative messages to be amplified.” Brown is currently taking a break from social media, but it is unknown how long she will be off for.

 

Addison Rae

Formerly From: TikTok

Currently: Acting, influencing

Net Worth: $5 million*

As of 2021, celebrity Addison Rae has 81 million followers on TikTok. In 2020, she was the app’s highest earner. Recently, she’s released her first single and starred in a movie reboot. However, some fans are concerned that she might be quitting TikTok.

Rae hasn’t given any indication that she plans to leave the platform that made her famous. However, she is currently inactive on the app, which has led to speculation among her fans. It’s possible that Rae is just taking a break from social media, but it’s also possible that she could be quitting TikTok for good. Only time will tell what Addison Rae decides to do next. For now, her fans can enjoy her content on other platforms and hope that she’ll return to TikTok soon.

 

Chrishell Stause

Formerly From: Days of Our Lives

Currently: Selling real estate on Selling Sunset

Net Worth: $5 million*

Chrishell Stause is a celebrity who is currently quitting acting to focus on her real estate career. The actress, who has starred on soap operas like All My Children and Days of Our Lives, recently got her real estate license and now works for The Oppenheim Group, a luxury real estate broker in Los Angeles.

Stause managed to combine acting and real estate when she appeared on the Netflix reality show Selling Sunset, which follows The Oppenheim Group as it sells some of the most outlandishly-beautiful houses in the world. In 2020, Stause finished eighth on Dancing with the Stars. Now, Stause is focusing on her real estate career full-time. She recently told Variety that she loves working with The Oppenheim Group and is excited to see what the future holds for her in this new career.

 

Olivia Newton-John

Formerly From: Grease

Currently: Occasionally acting, advocacy

Net Worth: $50 million*

When she was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 1992, Olivia Newton-John took a step away from the limelight to focus on her health. She beat the disease, but it came back in 2017. The Australian triple-threat is still battling cancer, but she hasn’t given up. In fact, she’s using her platform to raise awareness and advocate for others facing similar challenges. Here’s what we know about her journey so far.

Olivia Newton-John is a household name thanks to her successful career in music and acting. She shot to fame in the 1970s with her portrayal of Sandy in the musical Grease and went on to have a hugely successful recording career. In recent years, she’s taken a step back from celebrity life to focus on her health and advocacy work.

 

We’ve seen some pretty surprising day jobs of former Hollywood stars. From country singers to talk show hosts, these celebrities have left their mark in the entertainment industry and pursued other interests after quitting Hollywood. While we can understand why some people may find it admirable for celebs to give up their glamorous lifestyles to pursue more “normal” jobs, others may see it as a bit sad. What do you think? No matter your opinion, one thing is for sure – these former Hollywood stars definitely know how to surprise us! Do you have any thoughts on what the most surprising day job of a former Hollywood star might be? Let us know in the comments below!