Fame and fortune are often fleeting, and the glitz and glamour of Hollywood don’t always guarantee financial security. While many celebrities seem to have it all, some have faced financial difficulties that led them to leave the limelight and take up regular jobs. Here are 11 celebrities who, after reaching the heights of fame, found themselves working more conventional jobs.
1. Geoffrey Owens
Famous For: The Cosby Show
Current Job: Trader Joe’s Employee
Geoffrey Owens, best known for his role as Elvin Tibideaux on The Cosby Show, made headlines when he was spotted working at a Trader Joe’s grocery store. Despite the initial media frenzy, Owens handled the situation with grace, reminding everyone that there’s no shame in hard work.
2. Chris Owen
Famous For: American Pie
Current Job: Restaurant Manager
Chris Owen, who played the memorable role of the “Sherminator” in the American Pie series, is now working as a restaurant manager in Los Angeles. Despite his iconic role, Owen’s acting opportunities dwindled, leading him to find steady employment in the service industry.
3. Dylan Sprouse
Famous For: The Suite Life of Zack & Cody
Current Job: Brewery Co-Owner
Dylan Sprouse, one-half of the Sprouse twins, took a break from acting to pursue higher education. After graduating, he decided to open All-Wise Meadery, a brewery in Brooklyn, New York. While his brother Cole continued acting, Dylan found his passion in brewing and entrepreneurship.
4. Kevin Jonas
Famous For: The Jonas Brothers
Current Job: Construction Business Owner
After the Jonas Brothers’ initial split, Kevin Jonas stepped away from the spotlight and started a construction business called JonasWerner Homes. Although the band eventually reunited, Kevin continues to be involved in his business ventures.
5. Vanilla Ice
Famous For: “Ice Ice Baby”
Current Job: Real Estate Investor
Vanilla Ice, the rapper behind the hit song “Ice Ice Baby,” transitioned from music to real estate after his career waned. He became a successful real estate investor and even hosted a home renovation show called The Vanilla Ice Project.
6. Angus T. Jones
Famous For: Two and a Half Men
Current Job: Church Volunteer
Angus T. Jones, who played Jake Harper on Two and a Half Men, left the show and the entertainment industry after a religious awakening. He now volunteers at his church and has largely stayed out of the public eye since leaving Hollywood.
7. Tara Reid
Famous For: American Pie
Current Job: Shark Tank Investor
Tara Reid, once a star of hit movies like American Pie, faced financial struggles after her career took a downturn. She eventually reinvented herself as an investor, even appearing on Shark Tank to pitch her business ideas.
8. Tony Danza
Famous For: Who’s the Boss?
Current Job: Teacher
Tony Danza, best known for his roles on Taxi and Who’s the Boss?, took a break from acting to teach high school English in Philadelphia. His experience as a teacher was even documented in the reality show Teach: Tony Danza.
9. Lindsay Lohan
Famous For: Mean Girls
Current Job: Beach Club Owner
Lindsay Lohan, who was once one of Hollywood’s brightest young stars, faced numerous personal and financial challenges. She eventually opened a beach club in Mykonos, Greece, which was featured in the reality show Lindsay Lohan’s Beach Club.
10. Rick Moranis
Famous For: Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
Current Job: Stay-at-Home Dad
Rick Moranis, the beloved actor from Honey, I Shrunk the Kids and Ghostbusters, stepped away from Hollywood to focus on raising his children after his wife passed away. Although he occasionally takes on voice roles, he has largely dedicated himself to his family.
11. Jonathan Bennett
Famous For: Mean Girls
Current Job: Fitness Instructor
Jonathan Bennett, best known for his role as Aaron Samuels in Mean Girls, found a new passion in fitness. He became a certified spin instructor and also authored a cookbook, combining his love for healthy living with his creative talents.
Conclusion
While these celebrities may no longer be in the limelight, they’ve found fulfillment and purpose in their new careers. Their stories serve as a reminder that fame is not always forever, and sometimes, the most unexpected paths can lead to a satisfying life.
