The 1970s was a decade of iconic actors and actresses, but some of these stars have since faded from the public eye. From leaving acting behind to focus on other pursuits, these once-famous faces have taken different paths, leaving fans wondering what happened to them. Here's a look at 12 famous actors from the '70s who have disappeared from Hollywood, and the reasons behind their departure.
Bobby Sherman
Bobby Sherman was a teen idol in the '70s, known for his hit songs 'Little Woman' and 'Julie, Do Ya Love Me'. However, he left the pop star life behind to become a paramedic and LAPD medical training officer. Sherman's decision to serve the public rather than pursue further fame is a testament to his dedication to a different path. He passed away in 2025, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as a talented singer and actor.
Michael Sarrazin
Michael Sarrazin was a leading man in the '60s and '70s, known for his deep, expressive eyes and edgy screen presence. He appeared in action dramas like 'Sometimes a Great Notion'. By the '80s, Sarrazin had faded from mainstream fame, taking smaller roles in TV and film. His last role was posthumously in the Jack Kerouac adaptation 'On the Road'. Sarrazin's passing in 2011 marked the end of an era for a talented actor who had captivated audiences with his natural charm and expressive screen presence.
Susan Dey
Susan Dey rose to fame at just 17 years old on the hit TV show 'The Partridge Family'. When her run on the show ended in 1974, she moved to Hollywood and landed the star role as Jo March in the 1978 miniseries 'Little Women'. Dey later had another hit casting in 'LA Law' between 1986 and 1992, earning several Emmy nominations and a Golden Globe for Best Actress. However, she struggled with mental health issues during her early fame and left acting behind in 2004. Dey's decision to prioritize her well-being and focus on life with her husband and daughter is a reminder of the importance of personal happiness and fulfillment.
Robert Conrad
Robert Conrad was a resident television tough-guy, reaching the height of his fame with 'The Wild Wild West' and 'Baa Baa Black Sheep'. However, the physical toll of his action-heavy roles and his craving for more privacy led to a decline in his public appearances. Conrad's passing in 2020 at 84 years old marked the end of an era for a talented actor who had won the hearts of audiences with his tough-guy persona.
Michael York
Michael York defined what it meant to be a '70s heartthrob with his easy demeanor and natural charm. He won a devoted fanbase with his roles in 'Logan's Run' and 'The Three Musketeers'. York revealed he was battling amyloidosis, a rare disease, in 2013 and has been receiving treatment ever since. His decision to step back from acting due to illness is a reminder of the importance of health and well-being.
Mark Lester
Mark Lester got his start in the '60s with hits like 'Fahrenheit 451' and 'Oliver!'. He starred in '70s classics like 'Black Beauty', 'Melody', and 'Whoever Slew Auntie Roo?'. Lester still appears occasionally on-screen, largely in interviews connected to his friendship with Michael Jackson. However, he works as an osteopath and acupuncturist in Cheltenham, stepping away from the spotlight to focus on a different path.
Ali MacGraw
Ali MacGraw started the '70s in a decade-defining role as Jenny Cavilleri, opposite Ryan O'Neal's Oliver Barrett. Since her days of movie star fame, MacGraw has been living quietly in New Mexico, focusing her energy on her community, animal welfare, and yoga. Her decision to prioritize her personal life and well-being is a reminder of the importance of finding balance and fulfillment.
Mike Lookinland
Mike Lookinland brought the character of Bobby to life on 'The Brady Bunch'. However, he struggled to find his feet after the franchise wrapped. Lookinland worked as a production assistant and pursued architectural craftsmanship in Salt Lake City. He launched a decorative concrete company, specializing in custom, hand-pressed concrete countertops. His decision to transition into a different field is a testament to the importance of adaptability and pursuing one's passions.
Rick Moranis
Rick Moranis appeared on the sketch comedy show 'Second City Television' between 1980 and 1984. When his wife, Ann Belsky, passed away from breast cancer in 1991, Moranis retired to focus on being a full-time father. His decision to prioritize his family and personal life is a reminder of the importance of love and support.
Kate Jackson
Kate Jackson, a star of 'Charlie's Angels', always kept her family as the top priority. She adopted her son Charlie in 1995 and explained that she couldn't be a good mom and a good director at the same time. Jackson's decision to prioritize her family and personal life is a reminder of the importance of love and support.
Robby Benson
Robby Benson starred in 'Ice Castles' and voiced Disney's Beast. He has transitioned into directing and academics, recently appearing in 'Severance'. Benson's decision to move away from the camera and focus on a different path is a testament to the importance of pursuing one's passions and interests.
Rick Springfield
Rick Springfield is known for his singing career with hits like 'Speak to the Sky' and 'Jessie's Girl'. However, he has also found fame on screen, appearing in the Saturday cartoon 'Mission: Magic!'. Although his time on the screen is more sporadic, Springfield hasn't left acting behind, recently appearing in the series 'All's Fair in 2025', and is still releasing music and touring. His decision to pursue both music and acting is a testament to the importance of following one's passions.
In conclusion, these 12 famous actors from the '70s have taken different paths, leaving behind the spotlight to focus on other pursuits. Their decisions to prioritize their well-being, family, and personal happiness are a reminder of the importance of finding balance and fulfillment in life.
