The 1990s gave Hollywood a generation of heartthrobs who seemed destined for lifelong superstardom. Their faces decorated bedroom walls, their interviews filled teen magazines, and their television appearances could send fans into a frenzy. From rebellious television characters to romantic movie leads, these actors had the looks, charisma, and popularity that casting directors dreamed of finding.
But Hollywood fame is unpredictable. Some former teen idols struggled to escape the characters that made them famous, while others discovered that life outside the entertainment industry offered something more rewarding. A few continued acting steadily, even as younger stars began dominating the headlines. And some remain recognizable today, despite their careers taking unexpected turns.
Not every departure from the spotlight represents a downfall. Choosing education, family, or smaller projects can be just as meaningful as starring in another blockbuster. Still, the contrast between these actors’ former popularity and their present careers makes for a fascinating trip down memory lane.
So, what happened to the heartthrobs who once seemed to have Hollywood at their feet?
1. Andrew Shue
Andrew Shue became a television sensation playing Billy Campbell on Melrose Place. His boyish charm and romantic storylines made him a familiar face in countless households. However, Shue gradually moved away from acting and explored opportunities outside Hollywood. He co-founded the nonprofit DoSomething.org and helped establish the parenting website CafeMom.
Rather than chasing another leading role, he built a career around entrepreneurship and social initiatives. His story is less about losing fame than choosing a different definition of success.
View 23 photos
View 23 photos2. Jonathan Taylor Thomas
Few teenage actors inspired as much excitement as Jonathan Taylor Thomas. Between Home Improvement and voicing young Simba in The Lion King, he seemed unstoppable. Yet Thomas surprised Hollywood by prioritizing education over acting. He attended Harvard and later graduated from Columbia University. Although he made occasional television appearances and explored directing, he never returned to the relentless celebrity lifestyle that once surrounded him.
For fans who remember his magazine covers, his decision remains one of the most surprising career changes of the era.
View 23 photos
View 23 photos3. Jason Priestley
Jason Priestley became a household name as Brandon Walsh on Beverly Hills, 90210. His character’s popularity helped establish him as one of television’s defining heartthrobs. After leaving the series, Priestley continued acting while developing a substantial directing career. He also starred in the Canadian comedy-drama Private Eyes.
Although he no longer dominates teenage magazines, his steady work demonstrates that leaving the center of pop culture doesn’t mean disappearing from entertainment.
View 23 photos
View 23 photos4. Andrew Keegan
Andrew Keegan captured attention through 10 Things I Hate About You, Camp Nowhere, and 7th Heaven. His handsome appearance and rebellious characters made him a familiar face to young audiences. Later, Keegan became involved in Full Circle, a spiritual community based in California that attracted considerable media curiosity.
He has occasionally returned to acting, but his career never developed into the blockbuster trajectory some fans anticipated.
View 23 photos
View 23 photos