These Actors Were All Supposed To Be The Next Big Thing… But Weren’t

Throughout the years, Hollywood has experienced its fair share of “it” actors. The flavor du jour, if you will. Actors were expected to be the next big thing at the box office for years, even possibly decades to come.

A lesson we learn repeatedly, however, is that fame is much easier to attain than it is to retain. Hollywood stalwarts such as Meryl Streep, Tom Cruise, and Julia Roberts are few and far between, while flashes in the pan whose names today elude you can be found frequenting D-list parties in the Hollywood Hills many nights of the week.

From stars who almost made it big, to those who sort of made it, but couldn’t quite achieve A-list status, certain actors seemed to have it all figured out, only to come up short in the end, for a variety of reasons.

Zooey Deschanel

Diehard fans of Zooey Deschanel will tell you she’s not too different from a charming indie, pixie princess. After making a name in films, Deschanel went on to gain TV fame in the series New Girl. It was obvious this role was identical to the type she would usually play.

Now, the actress spends most of her time raising her two kids after supporting roles for nearly a decade. She’s done a few commercials, here and there, but the actress seems more than content with her current, simpler life.

Gretchen Mol

Gretchen Mol was a star on the rise, landing huge roles on films like Donnie Brasco and Rounders, the actress was plastered all over. She would earn the moniker “It Girl of the Nineties” gracing the cover of Vanity Fair.

Nobody quite knows what happened, but Mol just sort of disappeared off the face of the earth. Some fans speculate the media portrayed her as more talented than she was, though fans will always be left guessing.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Joseph Gordon-Levitt seemed to be the next big thing. He would work on movies as big as Inception and 500 Days of Summer. The actor just didn’t seem determined to become Hollywood’s leading man, despite all his talent.

Ever since 2016, Gordon-Levitt has managed to do some voice-over work and acting in an independent short film. Fans are hoping they’ll be seeing the actor make his return pretty soon and grandly.

Tiffani Amber Thiessen

The raven-haired bombshell of the ‘90s, Tiffani Amber Thiessen won fans on screens across the country. On Saved By The Bell she earned a spot among Hollywood royalty, gracing the cover of almost every magazine and was the crush of millions of men across the globe.

The actress was actually the original choice to play Rachel on the smash-hit series, Friends. Unfortunately, she lost out to Jennifer Aniston and missed out on the role of a lifetime. Since then, she’s only stuck to small, soap-type roles that most would consider forgettable.

Andie MacDowell

In the ‘90s, actress Andie MacDowell could be found in pretty much every single romantic comedy that was made during the decade. This Southern belle starred in Groundhog Day with co-star Bill Murray and several other big-name films before her spotlight seemed to fade.

Lucky for fans, MacDowell has passed the torch down to her daughter Margaret Qualley, starring in Once Upon a Time In Hollywood, along with several leading-edge independent films as well. It should be interesting what Hollywood has in store for the young starlet.

Adrien Brody

Adrien Brody holds the record for the youngest male actor to ever land an Oscar in the history of the Academy Awards. For some actors, the pressure that can come along with early accolades can prove to be too much. After his iconic role in The Pianist, Brody went completely off-grid.

Fans wondered where he went, with some believing he started painting and other rumors spreading. Luckily, he did come back for a supporting role in Peaky Blinders. It’s hard to tell if the actor will ever achieve the same level of fame that he enjoyed early on.

January Jones

The actress that most fans know as Betty Draper, from the series Mad Men, could never manage to make it much farther beyond that role. Though she has expanded her range with roles on The Last Man On Earth, she hasn’t gained a ton of recognition for it.

Former castmates and crew reported Jones as being stuck up and unapproachable. Apparently, she initially dreamed of the classic role of Violet Sanford in Coyote Ugly. With an apparently challenging attitude, perhaps that played a part in her career stalling.

Nicole Scherzinger

Originally best known as a member of The Pussycat Dolls, Nicole Scherzinger is no stranger to fame. The actress was hoping to play one of the lifeguards in the 2017 Baywatch film, but she wasn’t cast. The excitement of fans was squashed before it began.

As talented as the actress was, some people just can’t cut it on the big screen. But, who knows? Maybe fans haven’t seen the last of this talented beauty just yet.

Clive Owen

Clive Owen actually did become a household name for a while, with movies like Derailed, Inside Man, and Closer. The actor filled action roles with ease and stayed an all-around hunk. Sadly, the actor would pretty much stay in niche films.

Hollywood can be unforgiving with even its best. For Owen, he had what it takes, but didn’t make it far enough. But then again, it’s never too late to achieve big dreams.

Colin Farrell

Another leading man from the other side of the pond is Colin Farrell. Starring in blockbuster hits like Daredevil, Phone Booth and Minority Report, Farrell had more than enough in his arsenal. He even nailed his comedic role in Horrible Bosses.

After some box office flops and an issue with substance abuse, the actor would never reach the level of fame of a Brad Pitt. But after some time out of the limelight, Farrell is set to play the villain of The Penguin in the upcoming The Batman.

Heather Graham

This blonde bombshell had the looks and the comedic skills to be the leading lady in Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me. Having roles in Say It Isn’t So and Boogie Nights, Graham showed that she had range. Even so, that range just wouldn’t be enough.

Despite all that potential, things wouldn’t pan out. The actress would struggle for over a decade before being placed on Hollywood’s back shelf. For such a promising start, it’s too bad she never made it to a higher level in show business.

Milla Jovovich

Ever since the massive success of The Fifth Element, fans thought Milla Jovovich was sure to be Hollywood’s next darling. She proved them right with an impressive role in Resident Evil, but things fizzled.

Fairly quickly, the actress’s star power all but went out. Her time seemed to have come and gone before she could really do anything to stop it. Sometimes, that’s just how it goes.

Jonathan Taylor Thomas

Jonathan Taylor Thomas is well-known for his roles in Home Improvement, Wild America, and Man of the House. He became very successful at a young age, and this gave him the title of teen heartthrob for girls all over the country.

Then, everything changed. Jonathan Taylor Thomas decided to further his education and went to some of the best universities around the world. He went to Columbia, Harvard, and even St. Andrew’s University in Scotland. JTT did an interview with People magazine, where he discussed completing his studies and focusing on writing scripts and directing. He decided he was more interested in working behind the camera.

Hayden Christensen

Hayden Christensen was 12 when he first began acting. At only 13, he was cast in the film, In the Mouth of Madness, which would lead to his recurring role in the TV show, Goosebumps. He would also enjoy stints on Are You Afraid of the Dark? and The Virgin Suicides.

Finally landing the part of Anakin Skywalker was a dream come true for the young actor, in Star Wars: Episode II. However, audiences and critics panned his acting in the role, although the poor writing didn’t help. After Star Wars, his career stalled.

Claire Forlani

Aside from being beautiful, Claire Forlani proved that she was a force on-screen. Fans were disappointed to see that even still, she wouldn’t last long. The British bombshell would burn out, just like a shooting star.

After a slew of lead roles, it wasn’t enough to cement herself in the industry. She would do her best to carry on but failing TV shows would be all there was. Her most recent promising, yet short-lived role would be on HBO’s Dexter.

Jennifer Love-Hewitt

After smash successes like Heartbreakers and I Know What You Did Last Summer, Jennifer Love Hewitt had all she needed to rise to the top of Hollywood. She became a teen queen on the verge of landing a slew of more mature roles that would’ve expanded her range.

The actress decided to leave it all behind in favor of a simpler, more family-oriented life. She enjoyed the serenity of her new lifestyle for some time, before ultimately returning to a supporting role on the series 9-1-1.

Skeet Ulrich

Scream was one of those movies that launched the careers of the entire main cast. Skeet Ulrich was one of those actors lucky enough to ride that wave, albeit not for long. Despite his acting chops, fame wasn’t in the cards for the heartthrob.

All his efforts to maintain only led to less than mediocre TV roles, such as Jericho, lasting two seasons before being canceled. For a while, the actor languished before good fortune landed him a key role in the modern teen drama, Riverdale.

Rosanna Arquette

Rosanna Arquette was one of the actresses unlucky enough to face the wrath of Hollywood’s “blacklist.” The entire Arquette family was living royalty in the industry, with her siblings David and Patricia doing fairly well for themselves.

The actress would do her very best to shake the dark cloud that Hollywood placed on her, with little success. The roles became fewer and far between, with little in the way of quality parts. Some actresses really do just get the short end of the stick, it seems.

Megan Fox

Hope & Faith made Megan Fox a household name before her appearance in Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen. Soon to be followed by her breakout role in Transformers, also starring in the first sequel to the film before she was re-cast.

Rumors swirled that her and Michael Bay had anything but a harmonious relationship. The actress would liken him to Adolf Hitler, cutting her run with the massive franchise short. Other than a supporting role in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Fox hasn’t had much screen time.

Amanda Bynes

One young actress that went from the top of the world to the abyss was Amanda Bynes. She went down the dangerous path of substance abuse and had a series of mental health crises over the years.

For being one of the hottest teen stars of the ‘90s, the actress eventually did manage to right her wrongs and achieve a level of stability. It’s safe to say Hollywood hasn’t seen the last of this young powerhouse actress.

Shailene Woodley

Actress Shailene Woodley was cast in The Descendants, receiving a number of awards. Labelled as one of the forces of nature in an issue of Nylon magazine, the actress had a promising future. After her initial success, she went on to star in the Divergent series.

The reviews for the third installment of the franchise forced the studio to consider adapting future films into a TV series. Woodley wasn’t okay with the transition, opting to walk away all together. Ironically, she moved to the HBO series, Big Little Lies.

Liv Tyler

There was a span between the mid-‘90s and 2000s, where Liv Tyler seemed to be absolutely everywhere. Daughter to Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler, Liv had a sultry look that turned heads. The actress knew how to play that to her advantage, without falling into typecasting.

Despite all of that, things didn’t add up for her career. After starring in several blockbusters, Hollywood never cut her any slack, or offer the recognition she deserved. The closest she’s come is via a supporting role in HBO’s The Leftovers.

Sharon Stone

When it comes to the term “blonde bombshell” Sharon Stone basically pioneered it for the modern generation. She embodied poise, exuded sensuality and had the acting chops to boot. Her role in Basic Instinct is still considered one of the sexiest scenes in Hollywood history.

After the movie that made her a star, the movies she was in were slightly more than a little disappointing. With little bit parts, here and there, eventually the actress would take a second swing when the long-awaited sequel to Basic Instinct offered her that familiar, leading role.

Katherine Heigl

In romantic comedies over the last couple of decades, you’d struggle not to find actress Katherine Heigl in at least some of them. If it wasn’t for her reportedly “difficult” attitude on set, Heigl could’ve achieved big things. But sadly, this wouldn’t be the case.

Reports came in from castmates about the actress being uncompromising and hard-headed. Even her good looks and natural charm weren’t enough to cover her lingering reputation in the industry.

Riz Ahmed

The success of Slumdog Millionaire could’ve starred another leading man, giving the film a different look. Actor Dev Patel was lucky enough to land it, but Riz Ahmed was almost a sure thing to play Jamal Malik in the film, originally.

It turns out Ahmed ended up playing the supporting  role of the brother in Slumdog Millionaire. The actor would never quite achieve a huge level of success, that is until he was nominated for an Academy Award for The Sound Of Metal in 2021.

Shannen Doherty

The ‘90s would be severely lacking if it weren’t for Shannen Doherty. The actress graced screens across the country in her role in Charmed, a series about three teen witches trying to save the world, all while getting good grades.

On-set arguments and clashes with crew led to her being written off the show. Stories of the bad blood lingered, making others hesitant to work with her at all. It just goes to show how much it pays to be nice to others.

Tara Reid

American Pie became a legendary franchise, with Tara Reid playing a big part in that. Though her role didn’t offer much depth, viewers just felt there was something special to the actress. It didn’t hurt that she was a knockout in her own right.

She would later end up making a series of bad decisions, with wild partying being on the top of the list. All that bad behavior would land her on B-rated reality shows and lesser roles. If only she learned from those mistakes, she might’ve ended up ahead.

Gemma Arterton

Gemma Arterton didn’t have a lot of screen-time as Strawberry Fields, a fling of Daniel Craig’s James Bond, in Quantum of Solace. Arterton would go on to star in a number of other blockbusters, such as Clash of the Titans and Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time.

It’s hard to deny her beauty, wit and charm, with some similarities to the sultry, Liv Tyler. Even so, she didn’t take her acting career overly-serious and didn’t seem to mind a short run of success. Fans can only hope she doubles down to reach for the top of the industry.

Josh Lucas

Josh Lucas began his acting career at the age of 19, right after moving to Hollywood after high school. He was featured as a guest on a slew of sitcoms on both FOX and ABC. After a supporting role in Sweet Home Alabama, he took parts in Hulk and A Beautiful Mind.

His career was on a serious upward trajectory, enjoying more and more prominent roles. For whatever reason, his acting just didn’t catch on enough for fans to propel him to the top. That being said, he’s still just as lovable on screen.

Danny Masterson

That ‘70s Show was one of those shows the networks desperately tried to replicate but couldn’t. Danny Masterson enjoyed lasting recognition as a result of appearing on the sitcom before deciding it was long enough, opting to star in feature films.

Movies like Yes Man and The Bridge to Nowhere didn’t propel his career too much. After appearing for brief guest spots on Punk’d and MADtv, Masterson would find himself reuniting with former castmate Ashton Kutcher on Netflix’s, The Ranch. In 2021, he was charged for 3 counts of sexual assault, so his acting days are probably over.

Anne Heche

It was on the soap Another World that Anne Heche would find fame. Afterwards, she would be offered roles in Donnie Brasco, Volcano, Six Days, Seven Nights and Return to Paradise as a result. The actress would even go on to win a Primetime Emmy Award nomination in 2004 for Gracie’s Choice.

After splitting with her comedian flame, Ellen DeGeneres, her career would take a turn for the worse. When the public learned of her struggles with mental illness, it added fuel to the fire. Her admission of having an alter ego directly related to Jesus Christ was troubling, to say the least.

Estella Warren

Estella Warren was a synchronized swimmer long before becoming a Hollywood actress. She even managed a successful modeling career as well. Previously, she had been featured in Victoria’s Secret and a large number of big-name advertising campaigns.

Her second career of acting landed her in the re-adaptation of Planet of the Apes. She would enjoy a string of roles on TV series, such as Law & Order and Beauty and the Beast. Even with that massive amount of success, it seems that a legacy just wasn’t in the cards.

Bridget Fonda

This blonde bombshell is recognized worldwide for a number of stellar performances, such as Jackie Brown and The Godfather Part III. The actress earned a Golden Globe Award nomination, then in 1995, she took on her first voice-acting role in the animated film, Balta.

The daughter of legendary Peter Fonda, Bridget was a legacy of Hollywood royalty. She decided to settle down with Danny Elfman, putting all her efforts into raising a family. Now the only time fans can catch a glimpse of the actress is with her famous husband.

Saoirse Ronan

Saoirse Ronan’s star began to rise at a young age, since the film Atonement. The actress received an Academy Award nomination. This Irish-American actress followed up her initial success with roles in The Lovely Bones, and Hanna.

At one point, Ronan managed to become a household name, after her breakout role in the 2017 critically-acclaimed Ladybird.  She has actually starred in 5 Best Picture nominated movies since her career began. So the sun may just be rising on this young actress’s career.

Kate Bosworth

Starting with small roles, Kate Bosworth broke through with her role in Blue Crush. Raking in $40 million, with positive reviews across the board. Soon after, Bosworth would star alongside Val Kilmer in 2003’s Wonderland.

The actress was given the role of Lois Lane in Superman Returns. Unfortunately, the movie failed to live up to expectations, forcing Bosworth to re-evaluate her career. The actress is still looking to prove herself once again.

Eric Bana

Originally starring in the Australian comedy series, Full Frontal, Eric Bana longed for something more. Roles in Black Hawk Down, Troy, and Hulk allowed Bana to breakthrough into Hollywood. Afterwards, he would see success in roles like that of Deliver Us From Evil.

Critics panned some of the films, despite their star-studded casts. Many critics began to doubt the actor’s ability to carry a film, though it wasn’t his fault. He’s made appearances in the J.J. Abrams reboot of Star Trek and Hanna but hasn’t received the recognition he deserves.

Emile Hirsch

The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys introduced the world to Emile Hirsch. He later appeared in the lead role of The Girl Next Door, alongside actress Elisha Cuthbert. Alpha Dog soon followed, with a nomination from the Screen Actors Guild so come for Into The Wild.

Hirsch became somewhat of an icon in Hollywood, with offers being laid at his feet. He would go on to star in the remake of Speed Racer, but to little satisfaction from viewers. Since then, he’s been forced to accept a number of minor roles in lower-profile projects.

Phoebe Cates

Right after becoming a model, Phoebe Cates decided to try acting. In 1981, she would star in Paradise, even exposing herself for a few nude scenes. This wasn’t something ever allowed today, as she was 17 at the time.

The next year, Cates took her role as a wild teenager in Fast Times At Ridgemont High. Rolling Stone would call one of her scenes, “the most memorable bikini-drop in cinema history.”  Also starring in Gremlins, Cates would retire in favor of a more apple pie kind of life.

Dakota Fanning

At just seven years old, Dakota Fanning became a star for her portrayal of Lucy Dawson, in I Am Sam. She was nominated for a Screen Actor’s Guild Award by the time she turned eight. Talk about getting a break, early on!

She would go on to star in blockbusters like Man On Fire, opposite Denzel Washington. Fanning displayed a level of discipline that most adult professionals couldn’t achieve. Fans were disappointed with her role in The Alienist, but she isn’t down and out just yet.

Chad Michael Murray

One Tree Hill was a smash success of a teen drama, starring Chad Michael Murray. Murray enjoyed success in his part on Gilmore Girls, playing one of the heartthrob love interests. The actor was hard not to notice for audiences.

The actor was getting noticed, landing exclusive deals with MasterCard and Chevy. For some reason, the actor wasn’t able to capitalize on all his opportunities. It’s hard to say whether Hollywood has seen the las of him or not.

Sam Worthington

Sam Worthington developed a sheer presence on the screen with roles like the one played in The Great Raid. He’d even try playing the next James Bond, before Daniel Craig swooped in. The British actor almost made the cut.

After landing the leading role in Avatar, Worthington enjoyed the reputation that could carry a big-budget film. He impressed fans with roles in Terminator: Salvation and Clash of the Titans. The actor never quite enjoyed the level of mainstream success many thought he would get.

Leelee Sobieski

Once considered for the role of Claudia in Interview With The Vampire, actress Leelee Sobieski sadly lost out to Kirsten Dunst. She went on to enjoy moderate success in films like The Reunion, though never as much as Dunst.

It was during her teen years that the world looked promising for young Sobieski, with Deep Impact having critics project her as a real up-and-comer. Somehow, the actress seemed to plateau, never quite breaking through. She was even nominated for two Razzie awards., which probably isn’t something to be very proud of.

Brandon Routh

Brandon Routh landed roles in a number of TV series, including Gilmore Girls. He would also make appearances in NBC’s Chuck along with many supporting film roles. Zack and Miri Make a Porno and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World were just a couple.

The actor would prove his mettle in Superman Returns, playing “The Man of Steel” himself. With expectations set high, Routh failed to deliver on a number of accounts. It seems the actor was only destined to play lesser heroes like the one in DC’s Legends of Tomorrow.

Armie Hammer

Armie Hammer rose to fame with his dual role as the Winklevoss twins in The Social Network. Being nominated for a SAG award for his portrayal in J.Edgar helped his career along, with more nominations and acclaim for his role in Call Me by Your Name.

With all his looks and charm, the actor was set to reach superstar status, yet over time he realized his talents were best suited for supporting roles. As great as he was, he was better at helping others shine. In 2021, the actor was accused of sexual assault, which he has denied.

Minnie Driver

Good Will Hunting solidified most of the main cast as Hollywood A-listers, with actress Minnie Driver being no exception. Driver also managed to win an Emmy and a Golden Globe for her role on the TV series, The Riches.

After her initial success, critics expected her star to continue rising for a long time. Despite her talent and poise, Hollywood never fully embraced the starlet. She would be relinquished to obscurity in the 200os and beyond, sadly.

Taylor Kitsch

The NBC sports drama series Friday Night Lights starred Taylor Kitsch as Tim Riggins in 2006. Kitsch was a mainstay for five seasons, getting noticed on an international scale along with almost eight million viewers. Even more impressively, he was the perfect fit to play the mutant Gambit in the film X-Men Origins: Wolverine.

Even with all the actor’s prestigious, things just didn’t seem to click for him in Hollywood. Carrying films like John Carter, Battleship and True Detective, fans were led to believe he was on his way to the top. It turns out he just got stuck in the middle.

Mischa Barton

The O.C. had fans on the edge of their seats for the entire run. Mischa Barton played the main love interest, delivering a dramatic performance. The actress won a slew of Teen Choice awards before leaving the show on the third season finale.

Glamour magazine would call Barton the “Next Big Thing,” seeing how capable she was on-screen. In spite of all the great expectations, the actress ended up falling completely off the radar, while continue to fly.

Carrie-Anne Moss

The Matrix was one of the biggest blockbusters of the twentieth century, with actress Carrie-Anne Moss delivering in her role as Trinity. Grossing $460 million, the film received critical acclaim across the board.

Gaining worldwide recognition, it was no wonder The Matrix defined the actress, offering a foundation to propel her career forward. Though she has graced screens in a variety of roles since, it seems none will ever quite measure up to that of Trinity.

Alex Pettyfer

With his breakthrough role in the film Stormbreaker, Alex Pettyfer was set for superstardom. The actor would receive a Young Artist Award nomination along with an Empire award. Pettyfer did pretty well as a model for Burberry for a little while too.

He went on to co-star alongside Channing Tatum in Magic Mike, before taking the leading role in I Am Number Four. Critics had him poised to become Hollywood’s next big heartthrob. Pettyfer made the critical mistake of disregarding interviewers and seeming arrogant which would lead to his downfall.

Shannyn Sossamon

Starring alongside a young Josh Hartnett, Shannyn Sossamon played the love interest in 40 Days and 40 Nights. Sossamon would even beat out Kate Hudson for her memorable role with Heath Ledger in A Knight’s Tale, putting her in position to reach great heights in Hollywood.

Things continued to flow with her landing a leading role in The Rules of Attraction to rave reviews. What brought her career to a halt was reuniting with Heath Ledger on The Order. The actress took a break from the industry to raise her family.

Isaiah Mustafa

Old Spice wasn’t a brand known for great advertising. That is…until Isaiah Mustafa came along. His perfect blend of comedy and being ridiculously good-looking all came together to produce some of the most successful advertising in the last decade.

His star rose so quickly, he almost made the jump to playing the iconic Marvel character Luke Cage. Sadly, he ended up losing out to actor Mike Colter, which launched his entire career while Mustafa will forever be remembered as the Old Spice guy.

Chris Klein

American Pie did launch many acting careers, but some of them would be pretty short-lived. Chris Klein would be unlucky enough to not maintain that momentum. It seems that he continued to be typecast as the lovable jock for much of his career.

The success proved to be a little too much for the actor in the beginning, leading to an embarrassing DUI arrest. Since then, he seems to be cursed with less than ideal roles. The last couple films weren’t terribly impressive, much like the length of the actor’s career.

Macaulay Culkin

One of America’s favorite child stars of the ‘90s was definitely Macaulay Culkin. He would get his big break playing a stranded kid, stuck fending off burglars in the smash success, Home Alone. The actor fit the very definition of Hollywood’s golden child.

Adulthood was pretty difficult for the young actor. Since he could have everything his heart desired, Culkin went overboard. Things got to a point that he was arrested on drug charges. One can only hope he’s turned his life around.

Lisa Kudrow

Some would call actress Lisa Kudrow’s role on the show Friends, one of the most iconic. Sadly, the actress was outshined by Jennifer Aniston. After the show ended, Kudrow could only land bit parts, with Analyze This and the ironically named comedy, The Comeback.

The actress is starring in a successful web-series which has been picked up by Showtime called Web Therapy. She plays a wannabe therapist for the self-indulgent character of LA. This newfound wave of success has definitely given Kudrow a much-needed boost.

Lori Petty

Lori Petty had her first big break when she was cast in Fox’s Booker. She got the chance to star in the action thriller, Point Break with Keanu Reeves, playing his amateur surf instructor. The actress appeared in A League of Their Own alongside big names like Tom Hanks and Geena Davis.

She took on the extremely quirky lead role in a movie based off the British graphic novel, Tank Girl. Fans might remember her also starring in the absolute classic, Free Willy. The actress faded out of Hollywood little by little, until she couldn’t be found at all.

Mike Vogel

Mike Vogel was a model for Levi’s jeans, long before becoming an actor. It was after catching the eye of talent scouts that Vogel would land a role on Grounded for Life, between 2001 and 2004. He would go on to star as Heath in the TV adaptation of Wuthering Heights, airing on MTV.

The actor’s biggest hit would be in the remake of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre in 2003, seeing incredible box office success. While his star is definitely on the rise, nobody can say for sure if it will continue to do so. Only time will tell.

Kerri Green

Following a string of roles in teen dramas, Kerri Green broke through with her role in The Goonies. The actress would reach even greater levels of success in the film Lucas, being caught in a love triangle between Charlie Sheen and Corey Haim.

She wouldn’t be so lucky in her next role, however. Three for the Road would prove to be the beginning of the end for the actress, only starring in small TV roles since. Other than that, small-budget indie films would be the only way for fans to continue to catch a glimpse of her.

Joey Lauren Adams

Most viewers likely wouldn’t remember Joey Lauren Adams’ first role in 1997’s Exorcist II: The Heretic. Adams would rise to fame in Dazed and Confused. That same year, the actress found her way to the Saturday Night Live stage, as well as the set of Coneheads.

A couple years later, the actress starred in Mallrats, created by Kevin Smith. Not long after filming wrapped, her and Smith became intimate, which gave the director inspiration for his next film, Chasing Amy. With her role in that film, she gained a cult following but never quite reached any higher level.

Erika Christensen

Actress Erika Christensen has worked hard to earn the MTV Movie Award for Breakthrough Female Performance, among others for her impressive role in the film Traffic.The majority of fans likely remember her as the crazed stalker in Swimfan.

Afterwards, she experienced a long period of stagnation, in spite of being on the popular show Parenthood. Today, she can be found on ABC’s drama Ten Days in the Valley, with Kyra Sedgwick.

Edward Furlong

Actor Edward Furlong won numerous awards for his portrayal of John Connor, in the sci-fi thriller Terminator 2: Judgement Day. Just a year later, he won a Saturn Award nomination for his work in Pet Sematary and a Young Artist Award.

Unfortunately for the young actor, his real-life shared many similarities with his character on-screen. Drug addiction and alcoholism would plague Furlong for years, eventually being caught by police.

Thora Birch

One of the few actresses to become an instant sensation, Thora Birch blew up the screen with her role in Purple People Eater. The film would land her a Young Artist Award. Her career as a child star was only just getting started, landing a number of other big-time parts in movies.

She would go on to become an indie-film heroine, with her roles in Ghost World and American Beauty. Somehow with all her promise and talent, co-star Scarlett Johansson would soon soar as Birch languished over the years.

Sean Young

Actress Sean Young started her acting career with the film Jane Austen in Manhattan. Shortly after, she got a leading role in the sci-fi epic, Blade Runner. That role led to a number of other big-time parts, such as Dune, Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and Wall Street.

Strangely enough, the actress though it would be a good idea to show up to the home of director Tim Burton, fully dressed up as Catwoman. Young’s strange public behavior would continue, culminating in her being kicked out of the after-party for the 84th Academy Awards.

Kellan Lutz

American actor and model, Kellan Lutz landed his breakthrough role in the film Stick It in 2006. He would also go on to star in the Twilight franchise as Emmett Cullen from 2008 until 2012. Since then, he’s enjoyed a number of creative and impressive roles in film over the years.

Lutz is noticeably muscular, cut and chiseled in his physique which allowed him to take on the roles of Hercules, Tarzan and even the Greek god Poseidon in various movies. His acting chops weren’t quite there. Fans were always left wanting more than just an incredible body.

Julia Ormond

Julia Ormond made her debut on television in Traffik on British TV. The actress earned her title as a celebrity playing a slew of roles in notable ‘90s films, including First Knight and Legends of the Fall. She would go on to win an Emmy Award with HBO’s Temple Grandin.

Playing the main character, Sabrina, the majority of viewers believed she would go on to do great things on film. Strangely enough, she was relegated to take on an endless number of supporting roles, forever longing to once again be the leading lady.

Jami Gertz

Former child star, Jami Getz starred on a single episode of Diff’rent Strokes. She also made recurring appearances on The Facts of Life as Boots St. Clair. Her entrance to film came in 1981, in the romance Endless Love, followed shortly by the TV series, Square Pegs.

Gertz would receive critical acclaim in Less Than Zero, with the role of a hopeless substance addict’s best friend. Ironically, she literally played a celebrity at the end of The Lost Boys. Since then, most of her roles have been guest spots and minor supporting roles.

Ione Skye

British actress Ione Skye was known mostly for her role in the film, Say Anything. Skye would enjoy a string of interesting roles throughout the ‘90s and 2000s. Wayne’s World and One Night Stand were some of her most memorable roles for fans.

The actress also had a natural talent for painting and has the title of an accomplished author, both of which she maintained along with her Hollywood career. It seems that she will remain a memory of nostalgic beauty for viewers.

Chris O’Donnell

Chris O’Donnell rose to fame during the start of the ‘90s, with strong roles in movies like Fried Green Tomatoes, School Ties and Scent of a Woman. He went so far as to be included in the list of 12 Promising New Actors of 1992, according to John Willis’s Screen World.

The actor played famous superhero sidekick, Robin, in Batman Forever and Batman & Robin. Unfortunately, the two superhero movies would be the worst-rated Batman films of all-time. O’Donnell was still able to bounce back with roles in The Three Musketeers.

Jeanne Tripplehorn

Beginning with Basic Instinct, Jeanne Tripplehorn played a police psychologist. Tripplehorn’s big break would come through her role on HBO’s Big Love and CBS’s Criminal Minds. The actress received a nomination for a Primetime Emmy Award for her part in HBO’s Grey Gardens.

The majority of her roles would be as supporting cast. Viewers have likely seen her in a variety of roles, though she didn’t leave enough of an impression for them to remember her. Some actresses just weren’t meant for the spotlight.

Shiloh Fernandez

Actor Shiloh Fernandez made his TV debut in an episode of Cold Case. Shiloh’s first important role was as Sean Henthorn in Jericho. Even though the series only lasted a season, fans rallied to bring back the show only for it to be cancelled permanently.

Fernandez was endorsed by critics to become the next on-screen superstar. Though he auditioned for the role of Edward In Twilight, the role went to Robert Pattinson. He landed a variety of roles in other films, but failed to achieve that illustrious superstar status.

Helen Slater

Helen Slater broke through with her role in ABC’s Afterschool Special Army & the Angel. Slater landed the role of a lifetime, playing Supergirl alongside heavy-hitters like, Mia Farrow. Critics had mixed feelings about the film, causing the actress’ career to stall.

Nobody blamed the actress for the lackluster quality of the movie. Out of frustration, the actress appeared in Ruthless People and a number of other small roles. Ironically, later on she would play Kara Danvers, Supergirl’s mom on the TV series Supergirl.

Shelley Duvall

Over her entire career, Shelley Duvall showed just how talented she was. Though most of her roles were eccentric, she played them with mastery, rising to stardom in the ‘70s, being most notably remembered opposite Jack Nicholson in The Shining. She would go on to garner a Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress, along with an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.

After all that success, the actress suddenly disappeared from the spotlight. It would only be years later that Duvall revealed her struggles with mental illness, citing that as her reason for leaving. She would continue to struggle, doing her best to seek the right and most effective treatment for her severe condition.

Rick Moranis

Rick Moranis got recognition in the Canadian comedy series SCTV during the ‘80s. Shortly after, Moranis landed role after role, appearing in classic movies like Ghostbusters and Honey, I Shrunk The Kids. The actor then decided it was time to step aside and focus on his kids once his wife passed away.

Moranis has done a few voice-overs for animated films, as well as some comedy album. Film personalities worldwide would not stop knocking on the actor’s door, pleading with him to make a comeback to the big screen. In the actor’s opinion, family comes above all else.

Nick Stahl

Nick Stahl received wide acclaim for his work in The Man Without A Face, alongside Mel Gibson. Compared to other child actors that burned out before adulthood, Stahl made the transition into maturity. He would go on to star in big movies like The Thin Red Line and Sin City.

The actor made the mistake of being arrested at an adult film store in Hollywood, for lewd behavior. Only a year later, the actor was arrested after being caught carrying methamphetamine.

Michael Schoeffling

A gifted wrestler out of high school, Michael Schoeffling won a mountain of medals. After being cast as Kuch in Vision Quest, the actor put his wrestling career on hold, ironically acting in a scene that involved a wrestling duel with co-star Matthew Modine.

His best-known role is Jake Ryan, chasing Molly Ringwald’s in the 80’s classic Sixteen Candles. He continued to pursue movie role, starring alongside Winona Ryder in Mermaids. Then the actor completely disappeared, marrying his model girlfriend, and raising a family as a carpenter.

Ilan Mitchell-Smith

Before acting, Ilan Mitchell-Smith was an accomplished ballet dancer. Mitchell-Smith was talented enough to get a full-ride scholarship with the School of American Ballet. The role that changed everything was starring in the film Weird Science.

After his success, the actor went on to land many other roles. None of those roles helped his career, leaving him feeling stuck. He finally decided it was time to hang up his hat, eventually becoming a professor at California State University.

Taylor Lautner

If it wasn’t for the massive success of the Twilight franchise, who knows where actor Taylor Lautner would be now? Fans wouldn’t have to face that reality since Lautner was a perfect fit to play his character alongside Robert Pattinson.

After Twilight, the actor would move to smaller TV roles as well as commercials. For many teenagers, they even considered him to be a true sex symbol. It seems that ever since his initial breakout success, Lautner’s star just hasn’t shone as bright.