“The Donna Reed Show” propelled many actors to stardom. Paul Petersen, a child star at the time, played teenager Jeff Stone on the show from 1958-1966, much to the enjoyment of his growing fanbase. Eight years – now that’s a long time for a kid of his age.
He was pursued by many record labels after singing “My Dad” and “She Can’t Find Her Keys” on the sitcom. Over the years, he was discovered as an author as well, writing novels and an autobiography. Now, as he approaches his 80s, he campaigns for child actors’ welfare. He has been married on three separate occasions and has three children.
Roy Orbison (1950s-1960s)
Roy Orbison is mostly known for his hit single "Oh, Pretty Woman," which became the theme song for the successful movie of the same name. However, the Big O signed his first record contract long before that in 1956. His first big hit was "Ooby Dooby," which was recorded with his college friends.
Orbison became influential to many famous artists such as The Rolling Stones, and he even toured with the Beatles in 1963. His popularity took a dip in the 70s and resumed in the 80s. He passed away from a heart attack in 1988 at 52 years old.
Ann Margret (1960s)
Ann Margret is mostly known as the sweet girl singing "Bye Bye Birdie" in a high-pitched-yet-pleasant voice. Her part in the film became an iconic cultural reference that stuck around for decades. Margret went on to star in more films in the 1960s, establishing herself as an it-girl. But that wasn't all.
In the 1970s, Ann was involved in a horrible accident after which she needed extreme facial reconstruction. Thankfully, the surgery was successful, and she was able to bounce back from one for many would have been a career-ending moment. In her case, she continues to act, most notably in shows like "Law & Order" and "CSI."
Johnny Crawford (1950s-1960s)
Johnny Crawford is another star who became famous at a young age thanks to the "Mickey Mouse Club." To be fair though, it was very long before Britney, Christina, Ryan, and Justin were even alive! Mouskateers of our time are nothing new, but Crawford was one of the firsts.
He later came to his own at 12 years old (!), playing the role of Mark McCain in the western series, "The Rifleman." He proved himself as an actor and a singer (five top-40 singles!), and his popularity knew no bounds. He led a long, fruitful career, and unfortunately passed away in 2021.
Donny Osmond (1970s)
How many albums has Donny Osmond recorded throughout his life? Try 60. That's right folks. That's six times ten. Quite a staggering figure. This Osmond brother also found success among his family in The Osmonds, the band that brought stardom to them all. Later, Donny also had a variety show with his sister Marie.
In the eighties, Donny released a solo pop album and also made a turn as Gaston in a Broadway production of "Beauty and the Beast." The Osmonds still perform together in Las Vegas, and Donny also appeared in the ninth season of "Dancing With the Stars," which he won!