Forgotten Child Stars: Where Are They Now – 20 Actors You’ve Overlooked
A BuzzFeed investigation has unearthed the current lives of 20 former child actors, revealing surprising career paths and personal journeys beyond the screen. From voice acting to racing and mental health advocacy, these stars have navigated significant changes since their early roles.
Atticus Shaffer, once a familiar face on *The Middle*, has traded the small screen for the digital one, establishing himself as a popular Twitch streamer and content creator. Jordin Althaus, known for his role in *Zoey 101*, pursued a degree in film and music before dedicating himself to a career as a singer and songwriter.
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Atticus Shaffer, who played Brick Heck on *The Middle*, is now a content creator. The 26-year-old shifted from television to voice acting, lending his voice to numerous animated shows. He’s also built a following on Twitch, streaming video games and sharing personal stories. Shaffer’s Instagram account, @atticusshaffervlog, showcases his gaming activities and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his life.
Paul Butcher, best known as Dustin Brooks in *Zoey 101*, didn’t leave the entertainment industry entirely. After the show concluded in 2008, Butcher studied film and music at UCLA. He’s since established himself as a singer and songwriter, releasing original music and touring. Butcher, now 31, continues to work in the entertainment sector, most recently returning to acting in the *Malcolm in the Middle* revival.
Frankie Muniz, a teen idol thanks to *Malcolm in the Middle*, surprised many by stepping away from Hollywood in 2004. He redirected his passion to professional racing, competing in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series with Reaume Brothers Racing. Muniz, 35, is now a full-time race car driver. He also reprised his role as Dale Ballard in the *Malcolm in the Middle* reboot, *Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair*, which premiered on Hulu in 2026.
Alyson Stoner, who appeared in *Cheaper by the Dozen*, has taken a dramatically different path. The 32-year-old is now a mental health practitioner, author, and advocate. She founded Movement Genius, a platform offering therapist-led wellness programs, combining her performance background with a focus on mental health support for artists. Stoner’s Instagram account, @, features content related to her wellness work and advocacy efforts.
Taylor Momsen, who played Cindy Lou Who in *How the Grinch Stole Christmas*, transitioned from television to music. She became the frontwoman for the rock band The Pretty Reckless, consistently releasing music and touring since 2014. Momsen, 32, continues to perform live, including a recent tour in April 2026.
Source: https://www.buzzfeed.com/arsheenkaur44/forgotton-child-stars-now