Child actors are a tricky subject—their first appearances can be the start of a successful career or their one and only shining star moment. And while some actors might drift away in the long run, the roles they took once will forever be immortalized on the silver screen, leaving us with fond memories that we can look back on. This time, let's take a look at some of the all-grown-up actors and how their career developed after their more-famous appearances. The focus will be placed on shows and movies from the 1990s to mid-2000s, taking a look at the iconic roles (who knows, maybe it's time for a marathon of oldie-but-goodie movies).
#21 Noah Hathaway As Atreyu In The Neverending Story (1984)
Noah Hathaway played Atreyu in The NeverEnding Story (1984). The NeverEnding Story is a classic in which Hathaway portrayed one of the protagonists who was destined to save the land from evil. He performed some of his own stunts and even won an award for his performance, and while he continued acting, the actor never reached his previous level of fame.
55points
#22 Lindsay Lohan As Annie And Hallie In The Parent Trap (1998)
Lindsay Lohan played Annie and Hallie in The Parent Trap (1998). Lohan played two separate characters, the separated twins who try to reunite their parents. After her breakthrough, the actress had a steady list of appearances in movies and shows, and even released several albums in early 2000's. Lohan didn't have a smooth transition to more mature roles and had to deal with health problems, but currently, the actress seem to be making a steady comeback.
49points
#23 Ivyann Schwan As Trixie Young In Problem Child 2 (1991)
Ivyann Schwan played Trixie Young in Problem Child 2 (1991), where she was a mischievous child that kept the adults on their toes (as the title would suggest). Schwan had various appearances in many other shows, including a role on Bill Nye the Science Guy.
47points
#24 Edward Furlong As John Connor In Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991)
Edward Furlong played John Connor, the world-saving teen in Terminator 2: Judgement Day (1991). After his adventure with the Terminator, Furlong made appearances in other movies and shows. He dabbled in music too, releasing an album in Japan. Unfortunately, the actor had some run-ins with the law due to substance abuse.
43points
#25 Jeremy Dunn Jackson As Hobie Buchannon In Baywatch (1991-1999)
Jeremy Dunn Jackson played Hobie Buchannon, son of the famous Mitch Buchannon in Baywatch (1991-1999). He appeared in more than 150+ episodes and even dipped a toe into the music industry. However, the former child star also had some unfortunate run-ins with the law, most notably a jail sentence for stabbing someone.
40points
#26 Patrick Renna As Hamilton “Ham” Porter In The Sandlot (1993)
Patrick Renna played Hamilton “Ham” Porter in The Sandlot (1993). The actor seemingly is best known for this role, with several episodic appearances in various shows and movies. As a side note, Renna is a Scientologist.
40points
#27 Madison Lintz As Sophia Peletier In The Walking Dead (2010-2012)
Madison Lintz played Sophia Peletier in The Walking Dead (2010-2012). After her small but impactful role as the daughter of one of the main characters, Lintz took up the portrayal of Maddie Bosch in Bosch (2015-2021).
39points