Which Child Actors Have Grown into Actually Decent Human Beings?

Child actors like Shirley Temple, DeAnna Durbin, and Kurt Russell have left behind their youthful personas to become respected figures in society. This article explores the journey of several notable child actors who, despite the challenges of their young years, have grown up to lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Getting through childhood is hard enough, let alone the teenage years that follow. Then, for many child actors, the real world of adulthood and responsibilities looms. It takes an immense amount of fortitude for a young person to overcome the hurdles of fame, pressure, and societal expectations. Those who manage to transition into responsible and balanced adults are truly commendable.

From Entertainment Icons to Influential Figures

Ron Howard: One of the most notable examples is Ron Howard. He began his career as the brash, blonde-haired Opie Taylor in the Andy Griffith show, then quickly transitioned to the character of Richie Cunningham in The Wonder Years. Howard not only overcame his youthful persona but also became one of the greatest directors in cinema history. Beyond his professional achievements, he and his wife, Cheryl, founded the Ron and Cheryl Howard Foundation, which provides grants and scholarships to numerous recipients.

Loading Guns, Being a Villain, and Splashing Late Night

Other child actors have also made impressive transitions. For instance, Josh Brolin, who starred in the 1953 film Old Boy, has since become a celebrated actor and a star turning point in Deadpool. His performance as Cable showed his range and versatility. He has also gained recognition from high-profile talk shows like The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, where his comedic timing and easy rapport with Stephen shine. Brolin has indeed shown that he has grown into a great actor and decent adult.

In the Diplomatic Service: Shirley Temple’s Legacy

Shirley Temple: Perhaps one of the most remarkable transitions is that of Shirley Temple. After her incredible success in Hollywood, she went on to serve in the United States Foreign Service. In her later years, Temple was appointed as a U.S. Ambassador, carrying on the legacy of public service she started during her childhood.

A Focus on Resilience and Positivity

When we consider the vast number of child actors who have graced the entertainment industry over the years, it's striking to note that the majority of them have grown up to be decent adults. These individuals, including Danica McKellar, Emma Watson, Fred Savage, Ronny Howard, Jackie Cooper, and Johnny Crawford, have not only maintained composure in their personal and professional lives but have also become positive forces in society.

For example, Emma Watson, once known for her role in the Harry Potter series, has become a prominent advocate for gender equality and women's rights. Similarly, Danica McKellar, who starred in Wonder Years, has become a celebrated mathematician and author, promoting STEM education and breaking stereotypes about young women in science.

Conclusion: The stories of these child actors demonstrate that with resilience, determination, and a strong sense of self, it is possible to overcome the challenges of early fame and rise to become responsible and admirable adults. Their journeys remind us that behind the fame and glory, these individuals are ordinary people who have made valuable contributions to society.

Furthermore, another individual worth mentioning is Danica McKellar. Beyond her role in The Wonder Years, she has embarked on a career in mathematics, authoring several books aimed at promoting STEM education among young girls. These efforts to inspire and mentor have made her an influential figure in promoting inclusivity and equality in the STEM fields.