The Greatest 80s Stars: Where are they today?

Pam Dawber

Pam Dawber was quite well-known as Mindy McConnel from the ‘70s and ‘80s television series Mork & Mindy. You can bet that Mork would not be much without his other half! She was also a beloved actress for her role as Samantha Russell in the television show My Sister Sam. Despite her retirement, to focus on her family, Pam Dawber will always be remembered for her fantastic contributions to the entertainment industry and she now lives a peaceful life with fellow actor Mark Harmon.

Barbara Eden

Although not everyone knows this, this ‘80s celebrity was both the star and co-producer of the hit film The Secret Life of Kathy McCormick, but she is most likely best known for her outstanding performance as the lead in I Dream of Jeannie. Barbara Eden received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame back in 1998 and you can learn all about her unforgettable career in the entertainment industry by reading her memoir Jeannie Out of the Bottle. She has also released quite a few songs and even some albums!

Loretta Swit

Loretta Swit is another beloved and somewhat legendary ‘80s celebrity personality that will always be remembered after she rose to fame after her appearance in the hit television show M.A.S.H. It is highly unlikely that anyone could ever forget her legendary character or the beloved show. Loretta Swit went on acting even after the hit television show ended, and also wrote a book on needlepoint, interestingly enough, and she works with animal rights charities as well.

Jeanne Tripplehorn

Jeanne Tripplehorn started her career in the entertainment industry with her onscreen debut in the film Basic Instinct. This is a film that you might remember for its scandalously steamy interrogation scene with Sharon Stone. She went on to perform in a number of hit films including Waterworld and she is still acting in the likes of popular television series Criminal Minds, and films such as Ana (2020). We really miss the days when films were as silly and fun as Waterworld...

Lindsay Wagner

This ‘80s star became a household name after her amazing performance as Jaime Sommers in the hit film The Bionic Women, for which she won an Emmy for! Here she played the female version of the Six Million Dollar Man, and has since had many roles in a variety of television and film productions. Recently, Lindsay Wagner went on to impress her fans by joining the cast of the enjoyable medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, and in films such as Samson. .

Lee Majors

Lee Majors was famous even before the ‘80s, although, after his role as Steve Austin in The Six Million Dollar Man, he became a world-renowned celebrity personality. He is also well-known for his performance in The Fall Guy. Beyond fame, the beloved star has been married a total of four times, with his second marriage to the Charlie's Angels star Farrah Fawcett. But since 2002 he has been happily married to Faith Cross. Since 1983, Majors actually also became part owner of the LA Express Football League team.

Catherine Bach

This ‘80s star earned her fame with her fabulous performance as Daisy Duke in the hit film The Dukes of Hazzard and even created the “daisy duke look” to add to her fame. Catherine Bach is currently active in the soap opera The Young and the Restless. If you watched the early-2000s reboot of The Dukes of Hazzard, you were probably quite disappointed if you were a fan of the original, especially with Jessica Simpson's role as Daisy Duke.

Nancy McKeon

Thanks to the NBC show The Facts of Life, Nancy McKeon is a well-known celebrity in the entertainment industry. The sitcom was actually one of the longest-running shows of its time, making an unforgettable mark in history and immortalizing the ‘80s era. It is also a believable coming of age tale above all else. Nancy Mckeon has since continued acting in various TV and film projects and is known for putting in a great deal of effort in researching her characters.

Lauren Tewes

Lauren Tewes, another ‘80s legend, was a part of The Love Boat for a whole nine years, and even though she was later cut from the show as a result of her unfortunate substance abuse at the time. Today she is in a whole other place, doing quite a lot of radio shows, voice-overs, and a number of other television roles and regional theater. Tewes also retrained as a cheese specialist, working as a sous-chef when not acting!

Debbie Gibson

Debbie Gibson was an amazing ‘80s pop star and a talented actress. Additionally, this iconic ‘80s legend was also a record producer, singer, and songwriter! The multi-talented Debbie Gibson found fame with the hit songs “Lost In Your Eyes”, “Say Goodbye”, and “Foolish Beat”. She has also made memorable appearances on Broadway in Grease and Les Miserables, and even ventured into film and television too. When you are this beautiful and talented, with a voice like an angel and an acting ability to boot, the world is your oyster!

Rob Lowe

Rob Lowe’s career in the entertainment industry got a real boost during the ‘80s thanks to his appearance in the hit films Oxford Blues, About Last Night, and The Outsiders. The heart-throb star later went on to shine in high-profile projects such as Brothers & Sisters, Parks and Recreation, and the hit television show The West Wing, which also earned him an Emmy and two Golden Globes. Not everyone knows that Rob Lowe just so happens to be an enthusiastic philanthropist as well as a celebrity personality.

Laura San Giacomo

Laura San Giacomo landed her fame with the sultry 1989 Steven Soderbergh film Sex, Lies and Videotape. The hit film got her a Golden Globe nomination and also a ‘Los Angeles Film Critics Association New Generation Award’. She also starred alongside Julia Roberts in the classic film Pretty Woman, and has had quite a lot of other on-screen performances since then too. She is also a strong advocate for charitable causes, specifically those surrounding disabilities.

Joe Pesci

The former child star became one of the most legendary actors in Hollywood after earning fame with his role in the hit film Raging Bull. Joe Pesci went on to perform in numerous films including Goodfellas, Casino, Easy Money, and Lethal Weapon 2 & 3 to mention only a few. He retired from acting in 1999 but has appeared in the occasional role since then. His last notable performance was in The Irishman, which was Martin Scorcese's latest blockbuster.

Cyndi Lauper

When it comes to 80s pop music, fashion, and style, few icons were as pioneering as Cyndi Lauper. She greatly helped establish this era's free and rebellious spirit. Cyndi Lauper’s debut album “She’s So Unusual” was released in 1983, earning her the respect and love of countless fans across the globe. The ‘80s music legend is actively involved in humanitarian work now and she is still impressing her many fans with her memorable chart-topping ‘80s tracks.

Brooke Shields

This beloved actress started her career as a child model and by the time she reached 12, she had already received critical acclaim when she landed the lead role in the hit film Pretty Baby. Back in the ‘80s, Brooke Shields continued modeling and performing in various projects, which include Endless Love and The Blue Lagoon. Today, the star continues to expand her career with her ongoing role in Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, the hit television series.

Tony Danza

This famous personality is better known as Antonio Salvatore from Who’s the Boss? as well as well-remembered for his performance in Taxi. This star later went on to receive a total of four Golden Globes and one Emmy Award. Tony Danza is still gracing the entertainment industry today, and looks like he hasn't changed a bit in all those years since! We love that his boyish good looks and goody smile are still shining to this day.

Jennifer Grey

Jeniffer Grey is most well-known for her roles in the iconic ‘80s films Dirty Dancing and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, which landed her a Golden Globe nomination. Both of these films are among the most celebrated from the period, and if you have not seen them then you cannot claim to be an 80s fan! She has appeared in a number of feature films since as well as a fair bit of television.  She also won the eleventh season of the show Dancing with the Stars!

Phoebe Cates

Who could ever forget the hit ‘80s films Gremlins and Fast Times at Ridgemont High? Phoebe Cates found fame for her incredible performances in these unforgettable films that are still enjoyed today. The star retired in 1991 and made a surprising comeback in 2001 when she appeared in The Anniversary Party! In 2005, Blue Tree, Cates' own boutique, opened on Madison Avenue. Looking at the picture on the right of Cates, it is hard to believe that she is in her fifties.

Kirk Cameron

Kirk Cameron was nominated twice for Golden Globe Awards for his role as Mike Seaver in Growing Pains and he later went on to act in a number of television shows and films even after the show was cut. The ‘80s star is now an Evangelic church leader. Ironically, Cameron was an atheist as a teenager, turning to Christianity when he turned 17 and was working on the production of Growing Pains. It is amazing what faith can do for your longevity!

Kelly LeBrock

This ‘80s legend started her career as a model at the young age of 16, appearing in various fashion magazines. During the ‘80s, Kelly LeBrock played in a number of films, and in 2013 she made a comeback to the entertainment industry. In 2016, British band Bastille released their single, Good Grief, which samples two of her lines from Weird Science, her 1985 movie, "So what would you little maniacs like to do first?" and "If you want to be a party animal, you have to learn to live in the jungle. Now stop worrying and go and get dressed.

Lisa Whelchel

It’s almost unbelievable simply how beautiful Lisa Whelchel is today. The actress who is most well-known for her role in The Facts of Life and The Mickey Mouse Club, continued acting and is now also an inspirational motivational speaker, as well as published some books. She also tied for second place in the reality show Survivor: Philippines, in 2012. Lisa has managed to magically prolong her youthful beauty phenomenally, and she is an incredibly fit woman!

Claudia Wells

Claudia Wells is yet another beloved ‘80s legend who is well-known for her role as Jennifer in the film Back to the Future. She was a major heartthrob that teenage boys and married men alike adored! After learning that her mother had breast cancer, the star decided not to star in the sequels of the hit film and she later made an amazing comeback to the entertainment industry in 2011 and has since been taking on acting projects.

Jason Patric

Thanks to the ‘80s, Jason Patric was a huge success after he found fame through his outstanding performances in Narc, Speed 2: Cruise Control, and The Lost Boys to mention only a few films that his fame is based on. He was the kind of edgy action star who combined incredible athleticism and strength with a steamy seriousness that was hard to match. When it comes to thrillers, Patric is a leader in the field!

Kirstie Alley

We all know and love Kirstie Alley ever since her role in Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan was released on the big screen in 1982. Since then she was involved in many more film and television productions, as well as some reality shows such as finishing second place on the 12th season of Dancing with the Stars, and runner-up on the 22nd series of  Celebrity Big Brother in the UK. Since 2016, she joined the cast of Scream Queens, a comedy-horror series.

Julia Roberts

While Julia Roberts might have shone the brightest during the 80s, she is a timeless figure whose presence and fame have barely diminished over the decades. Ever since Julia Roberts found fame in the unforgettable film Pretty Women, she has received three Golden Globe Awards and an Academy Award, with thanks to her outstanding performance in the hit film Erin Brockovich as well. She is still acting today, and you can bet that she will continue to do so for a long time to come.

Rebecca De Mornay

Rebecca De Mornay earned her fame in the ‘80s when she landed the role of Lana in the successful film Risky Business. She also went on to perform in the ‘80s blockbusters The Trip to Bountiful and Runaway Train. She continued acting in major roles well past the 80s, however, in films like The Three Musketeers, Wedding Crashers, Lords of Dogtown, and in the superhero series Jessica Jones. Rebecca De Mornay is still acting to this day.

Justine Bateman

This star is known for her performance as Mallory Keaton in the sitcom Family Ties that was aired in the ‘80s. Justine Bateman is a multi-talented actress that has also tried writing, directing, and producing. In 2016, she earned a degree in Computer Science and Digital Media Management. Wow, talk about a diverse career! Justine has a passion for a broad and fascinating selection of fields, and she has excelled in each one that she became committed to.

Victoria Principal

Victoria Principal is yet another ‘80s star with a philanthropic streak and in terms of her fame, she is most well-known for her performance in the beloved show Dallas. Following her successes in the acclaimed series, Principal founded her personal production company called Victoria Principal Productions. Her studio mainly produces television movies. But producing would soon become just one of her many entrepreneurial interests as she also founded her own beauty products line, named Principal Secret.

Nicole Eggert

Nicole Eggert landed a role in the hit 1980 film Rich and Famous when she was just eight years old! Being a child actress is a fantastic but challenging time for many kids, but Eggert's acting career was far from over. She went on to expand her career by performing in numerous other beloved projects including Baywatch and Charles in Charge. She has since dabbled in some reality television, and in 2014 embarked on an entirely new career path as an ice-cream truck owner and operator.

Kylie Minogue

This Australian legendary singer, songwriter, actress, philanthropist, and dancer found fame when she appeared on Neighbours and went on to make a huge success of herself as a musician. She overcame breast cancer in 2005 when she was 36-years-old, becoming a huge inspiration for those also suffering from the disease. Kylie Minogue is known as the “Goddess of Pop” or alternatively, the “Princess of Pop”, and she released another album in 2018 for her loyal fans to enjoy.

Sara Gilbert

Most well-known for her role in the beloved TV show Roseanne, Sara Gilbert received two nominations for the Primetime Emmys back in the ‘80s. The show is set for an eight-episode revival this year. The ‘80s sensation is also a guest star on The Big Bang Theory and the creator and co-host of the beloved show The Talk. As you can see from the pictures below, Sara's rebellious style and personality have changed very little over the years.

Lola Falana

Lola Falana has been earning the love and respect of her fans ever since 1964 with her many talents, which include acting, singing, and dancing. Since being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, her life has become quite a struggle and she has opted to lean on faith and religion as a strength during her most trying times. This is not unusual for any person, whether they are a superstar or an office worker. She uses her platform to speak out about spirituality and healing.

Melanie Griffith

Melanie Griffith started her impressive career in 1969 and found fame later in 1984 with her appearance in Body Double. The ‘80s star performed in quite a few TV and film shows since finding fame including her most recent 2017 film Dabka. Griffith is a proud advocate for Children's Hospital Los Angeles, being incredibly devoted to raising funds awareness for the needs of ill children. Melanie married Antonio Banderas in 1996 after they starred in Two Much together, but they would later settle for a divorce.

Demi Moore

Demi Moore is one of the most successful women in the entertainment industry, and for good reason! Her career started in 1981 and there is no guessing when this ‘80s icon will be slowing down. She has appeared in an incredible range of films, from her tantalizing roles as an exotic dancer in Striptease to her hardcore performance in G.I Jane as a Navy SEALS recruit. She has also enjoyed an equally refreshing series of relationships, including Bruce Willis and Ashton Kutcher.

Jennifer Beals

This actress has starred in over 50 films throughout her career and she is most well-known for her role as Alex Owens in the hit romantic drama Flashdance that hit the big screen in 1983. Her sensational dancing performances in the film are still appreciated by performers to this day. She recently performed the role of a teenager in the 2017 drama film Before I Fall. This was an incredible role for such an older woman to fill in.

Lea Thompson

This star is best known for her role in the hit film Back to the Future. Lea Thompson since earned her stardom with Caroline in the City and other than acting, she is also a producer and a director. From 2011 through to 2017, Lea Thompson played the role of Kathryn Kennish in the beloved show Switched at Birth, and in 2017 she was cast in the seventh adaptation of Little Women. Her skin and overall beauty have barely changed since the 80s.

Don Johnson

Actor, producer, songwriter, and singer Don Johnson is best known for his role as "Sonny" in the TV hit show Miami Vice. The show ran between 1984-1990 then he continued to the next adventure, playing cop again, in The Nash Bridges series for another six years. He has also released some music too! Johnson has continued featuring in movies and small appearances on the small screen as well, most recently in the excellent film Knives Out. 

Lou Ferrigno

The professional Bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno is also an actor, fitness consultant, and trainer who won the IFBB Mr. America title alongside two consecutive IFBB Mr. Universe titles. Ferrigno is best known for his role as The Incredible Hulk, CBS 70's TV series. Before the CGI of today's Marvel Cinematic Universe films, only an extremely developed bodybuilder could play the role of Hulk! The Brooklyn born also appeared on The King of Queens and the Lego Marvel's Avengers as himself.

Diane Lane

Diane Lane has been making a name for herself since 1971 and she found fame with her outstanding roles in A Perfect Storm, Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice, and other hit films ever since. She continues to grace the big screen today! Diane Lane's beauty has only evolved as she grew older, but while she might have enjoyed a sultrier edge to her good looks when she was younger, today she plays the ideal motherly role.

Madonna

A list of the greatest ‘80s stars would never be complete without the mention of the deserving Queen of Pop, Madonna! This legendary ‘80s icon made a name for herself in ‘80s and went on to become one of the biggest female fashion icons. Madonna earned a spot in the list of Greatest Hot 100 Artists of All Time by Billboard and she has sold over 300 million records. When it comes to youthful aging, few have managed to match Madonna's longevity.

Anthony Michael Hall

Anthony Michael Hall was part of the “Brat Pack” during the ‘80s. The “Brat Pack” was a group of young and extremely talented actors and actresses that starred in teen films. Being a part of this elite circle grants one eternal glory! Anthony can be remembered in hit films such as Sixteen Candles and The Breakfast Club to mention only a couple of films that based his deserving fame. Since the ‘80s he has dabbled in directing and producing.

Tiffani-Amber Thiessen

Tiffani-Amber Thiessen is yet another legend of the ‘80s that started her career as a model. The star was, in fact, so deserving of fame that she earned the title “Model of the Year” by Cover Girl. This title is most-likely what helped her land the role of Kelly Kapowski in Saved by the Bell. Since then, she has performed in a number of successful projects and she is now the host of her own hit show Dinner at Tiffani’s that can be enjoyed on the Cooking Channel.

Ally Sheedy

This ‘80s star was another famous member of the “Brat Pack” who made a name for herself in the film Bad Boys. Sheedy was awarded the Independent Spirit Award for Best Female Lead thanks to her part in High Art directed by Lisa Cholodenko. Even though she earned fame after her appearance in St. Elmo’s Fire and The Breakfast Club, she has not been seen on the big screen in quite some time as she has been actively involved in her writing career.

Tom Cruise

Oh boy, where do we even begin with this eternal heartthrob?! Tom Cruise has been a loved and respected celebrity personality ever since the ‘80s. Just some of the many films he has starred in include The Outsider, Risky Business, and Rain Man. In 1993, the successful star opted to start producing and according to Forbes, Tom Cruise is the “world’s most powerful celebrity”. Cruise is an outspoken and high-ranking member of The Church of Scientology, a controversial role that has garnered Cruise plenty of negative attention.

Barbi Benton

This famous ‘80s legend started her modeling career at the age of 16 and graced the covers of Playboy magazine. While few actresses today will consider appearing in the gentlemen's magazine, it was quite the popular thing for American actresses and singers to feature in. Other than modeling, Barbi Benton also released a few albums and she also starred in a country series called Hee Haw. We fell in love with Barbi's bright green eyes as soon as we laid eyes on her!

Jeff Cohen

Jeff Cohen’s chubby cheeks, seen on the left, are simply the cutest! The former child star is known for his role in Steven Spielberg’s film The Goonies. The star left the acting scene to start a career in law and he is currently an attorney and partner at Cohen & Gardner, LLP, and also writes periodically for The Huffington Post and CNBC. While Cohen might have lost a lot of weight since his iconic role, we cannot help but notice that he stall has those adorable chubby cheeks!

Emilio Estevez

Best known for his roles in The Breakfast Club, St. Elmo’s Fire, and The Outsiders, Emilio Estevez doesn’t seem to be actively involved in acting these days. However, the ‘80s star has been involved in directing, producing, and also screen-writing. Estevez is infamous for his long line of often scandalous relationships, which include Demi Moore, Paula Abdul, and Mimi Rogers. When you have the mischevious good looks that Estevez does, it is difficult to stay out of trouble!

Kim Basinger

Kim Basinger was a successful model in the ‘70s and went on to pursue a career as an actress in the ‘80s after she moved to LA. She made a name for herself in the 1983 film Say Never Again and later received a nomination at the Golden Globes for her unforgettable role in The Natural. This ‘80s star has maintained her amazing beauty over the years and continues to act to this day. Some of her recent work includes her roles in The Nice Guys and Fifty Shades Darker.

Mia Sara

Mia Sara can be remembered for her role as Sloane Peterson in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. The star went on to perform in numerous successful films including Legend and Timecop. In 2013 the renowned star retired from the entertainment industry. After nearly three decades in the business, we think that Sara's retirement is well-deserved. We hope that whatever she takes up next, be it personal or professional, that it brings her as much fulfillment as possible!

Mark Hamill

Mark Hamill will forever be remembered for his amazing role as Luke Skywalker in the iconic Star Wars films. Star Wars has since become a franchise that could all be thanks to the fantastic role played by Mark Hamill. Since Star Wars, Mark Hamill has also done some impressive voice acting work in a few animated shows, films, and video games. His return to the final trilogy of the legendary space opera caused an insane level of excitement.

Lori Singer

This celebrity started her career as a Julliard-trained cellist and went on to seek fame as an actress. Many people will consider playing the cello to be quite a mournful and subdued profession, which is why Lori stunned her critics with her incredible rise to fame. She landed roles in the hit films Footloose and the series Fame. Lori Singer remains active in the entertainment industry and she has also produced the documentary Mea Maxima Culpa: Silence in the Housse of Gold.

Elizabeth Berkley

Known for her outstanding performance as Jessie Spano in the series Saved By The Bell, Elizabeth Berkley is another ‘80s star that continues to grace the big screens to this day. If you want to become well-acquainted with the best sitcoms of the 80s, then Saved By The Bell is an essential watch. Some of her most recent work is her remarkable roles in CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Melissa & Joey, and New Girl. She has also been a contestant on the beloved show Dancing with the Stars.

Molly Ringwald

Molly Ringwald is understandably one of the greatest stars of the ‘80s as a result of her numerous award-winning lead roles. She starred in The Facts of Life and Tempest, which she received Golden Globe nominations for. Molly Ringwald is also a teen icon of the ‘80s for her performance in the films Sixteen Candles and The Breakfast Club. This legendary star continues to perform to this day and stars in the television series Riverdale.

Kim Wilde

If you remember the song “Kids in America”, then you should remember Kim Wilde. This song was the hit single of Kim Wilde that earned her fame and later became #2 in the United Kingdom. While Kim is no longer a 'kid in America,' she has gone on to become an integral part of the United States' culture in general. Kim Wilde has since sold well over 10 million albums, impressing her millions of fans!

Bo Derek

Bo Derek found fame with the film 10 that was released in 1979. The iconic poster of Bo Derek in a bikini is what increased ticket sales and helped her become one of the most iconic sex symbols of the ‘80s era. She has since done occasional work in documentaries, television, and film. Bo's last significant role was in the family romance film, JL Family Ranch: The Wedding Gift. Let us hope that she enjoys more notable roles in the future!

Nicolas Cage

Everyone knows Nicolas Cage for his amazing and impressive career in the entertainment industry. Nicolas Cage discovered stardom with his appearances in hit films such as Valley Girl and Birdy in 1981. He went on to act in a large number of successful films and continues to grace the big screens. Cage loves to make surprise appearances in all manner of films, from cheesy B-movies to respectable blockbusters. He is one of the most beloved actors of modern times, with a legendary status of note.

Sheena Easton

This legendary film star also started her career in 1981. The Scottish born singer and recording artist also found fame on both stage and the big screen as a successful actress. She has received numerous awards throughout her career for her memorable voice. Sheena Easton is one of the first and the only artists to have a Top 5 hit on five varying Billboard charts at the same time! We adored her almost android-like beauty and presence.

Judd Nelson

Judd Nelson is another star from the set of St. Elmo’s Fire and The Breakfast Club. He can be remembered for his iconic parachute pants and Ray-Bans. Judd Nelson is still acting today and he is also a producer, screenwriter, and author! We wonder what it is like being solely recognized for a singular role? While Nelson may be most famous for his part in The Breakfast Club, the rest of his career has been incredible, too.

Suzanne Somers

This star is well-known for her roles on television shows as Carol Foster-Lambert on the show Step by Step and Chrissy Snow on the hit show Three’s Company. The beloved star has also released a self-help book that has achieved best-selling status over the years! Suzanne has proved that no matter how much time passes, or how many difficulties she faces, that a winning smile can never be dimmed. This is a truly inspiring wonder woman!

Soleil Moon Frye

Soleil Moon Frye also started her career quite young, with her first impressive role in the comedy show Punky Brewster. Frye continued acting for a while, and directed her first film, Wild Horses, in 1998, and was Sabrina the Teenage Witch's best friend and roomie on the show for a few years. Nowadays, she still does voice acting, but mainly is focused on her organic clothing boutique for children, The Little Seed in LA, as well as hosting a web series about raising children, as well as women's issues.

Kathleen Turner

Kathleen Turner has received two Golden Globe Awards in her career as an actress and she can be recognized for her amazing performance in Body Heat. She is quite well-known for her somewhat raspy voice and today, she is a successful voice actress and she can be seen performing in theatre. While Kathleen may have physically changed quite a lot since the 80s, she has come into her own as an independent and confident individual.

Dianne Wiest

It is quite impressive that almost every film that Dianne Wiest ever starred in has either received an award or been nominated! Few actors, in general, can claim to be this consistently powerful in their performances. This beloved ‘80s actress has received two Oscar nominations, one BAFTA Award nomination, two Screen Actors Guild Awards and quite a few other awards too. She is also still active in the entertainment industry. What a phenomenal career, wouldn't you say?

Lisa Bonet

At the tender age of just 11 years old, Lisa Bonet began her career as an entertainer and when she was 16 she earned her fame when she landed a role on the comedy sensation The Cosby Show. The success of the show is to thank for her Hollywood stardom, although, she also starred in a few other films including Enemy of the Stage and High Fidelity. We really need to learn the secret of eternal youth from Bonet.

Charlotte Rae

Charlotte Rae found fame from The Facts of Life and Diff’rent Strokes and in 2009 she survived pancreatic cancer. The beloved ‘80s actress was, unfortunately, diagnosed with bone cancer in 2017 and sadly the disease got the better of her and she passed away in 2018. We will never forget the charisma and maternal charm that she brought to her roles, and her personality, in general, was one of strength and optimism. We will never forget you, Mrs. Rae!

Alyssa Milano

This star is not just an actress but also a producer, an activist, and a singer who is most well-known for her roles in Charmed, Melrose Place, and Who’s the Boss? She started her undeniably impressive career at the young age of 7! Given how much of her life was spent in the industry, virtually most of it, we were not surprised when Milano decided to call it quits and settle down with her family.

Kelly McGillis

During the iconic ‘80s era, Kelly McGillis played the role of Rachel Lapp the Witness alongside the celebrity personality Harrison Ford. She also starred in Top Gun and The Accused and more recently, the actress landed the lead role in the hit thriller film Mother of All Secrets. We really hope that she makes a cameo in the upcoming Top Gun reboot alongside her former co-star Tom Cruise. Who knows what is next for the mature actress?

Kirsten Vangsness

Actress Kirsten Vangsness is most well-known for her role as Penelope Garcia in the hit series, crime drama Criminal Minds. Vangsness also went on to feature in the spin-off of the same show, Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior. She currently lives in L.A., where she is focusing on writing plays and performance art. Incredibly, she also wrote quite a few episodes of Criminal Minds. Kirsten is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community and has done much to further the community's presence.

Erika Eleniak

Erika Eleniak can be recognized from Baywatch as the beautiful character Shauni McClain. This ‘80s star was not only an actress, but she was also a former Playboy playmate and model. Erika Eleniak is still active in the entertainment industry and her last project was her role in the hit television series Desperate Housewives. It is amazing how many different kinds of series an actress can star in. From a sexy lifeguard to a manic stay-at-home mom, Eleniak has enjoyed a diverse career.

Christine Lakin

Lakin, who’s mostly known as the Step By Step child-star, Alicia Lambert, is nowadays acting in the Hollywood Darlings series. During her acting career, she successfully achieved a B.A. in communications from UCLA. Lakin enjoys featuring in podcasts from time to time, and if you would like to hear more about her life, then check out TV Guidance Counselor, With Special Guest Lauren Lapkus, and the "Drinkin' Bros Podcast." She has been happily married to Brandon Breault since 2014.

Salma Hayek

Salma Hayek first came to public attention for her role as Antonio Banderas' love interest in Robert Rodriguez's explosive action film, Desperado. But this Mexican-American legend found fame on the big screen after starring in Frida. Salma Hayek and her husband are worth a jaw-dropping $26 billion and they currently live in LA with her little brother, and Salma is still acting. Hayek was one of the major contributors to the #MeToo movement when she accused Frida producer Harvey Weinstein of threatening her.

Kristy McNichol

Christina ‘Kristy’ McNichol is probably best remembered for her portrayal of the teenager, Letitia “Buddy” Lawrence, in the TV drama Family, one of the most-watched television shows at the time, for which she actually won two Emmy Awards! Before McNichol had her career in full gear, she was in the limelight already by appearing in a number of commercials, where she did great work that led her to acting opportunities, as well as increasing her bank account. Kristy actually had guest appearances in series like Starsky and Hutch, The Bionic Woman, The Love Boat, amongst others, before she made a name for herself with Family. In 1980 McNichol got her first break in film with Little Darlings, where she made such a good impression that even the critics who didn’t like the film, gave her performance high acclaim. In 1981 she was again nominated for an award for her role as Polly in Only When I Laugh, this time for a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress. In 2001 she decided to give acting a rest, saying that she needed the time for her personal happiness and well-being.