Many child actors are prone to depression or problematic behaviors as adults, but it seems like Ron Howard skipped that part. His acting career started when he starred in “The Andy Griffith Show” as Opie Taylor. He later got another famous role on “Happy Days” as Richie Cunnigham.
In the 1980s, Howard started directing, which brought us other cinematic masterpieces such as “A Beautiful Mind,” “Willow,” and ” Apollo 13.” He also recently directed the spinoff Star Wars movie – “Solo: A Star Wars Story.” Nearing his 70s, Howard is an inseparable part of America’s acting legacy. And his daughter, Bryce, is also a talented actor/director.
Peter Barton (1970s)
The short-lived TV show "Shirley" ran for a very limited time, but it still made Peter Barton a star. He was soon cast on a much bigger role in the show "The Powers of Matthew Star." Barton's popularity extended well into the 80s and won him numerous fans.
In a weird turn of events, one of his most devoted fans bequeathed him a substantial fortune when he passed away, making him $1.3 million richer. So even though Barton hasn't really done any acting work for the last few decades, he found himself being financially very fortunate anyway! His last role came in 2005, in the film "Repetition."
Lesley Gore (1960s)
Lesley Gore became famous at the tender age of 16 when her hit “It’s My Party” would play non-stop in every radio station possible. With the right look, voice, and attitude, she had the full package, which did not go unnoticed by her many US fans.
Gore had an over 20-year-long commercial success before she decided to turn to music composition. She worked on the soundtracks of famous films such as "Grace of My Heart" and "Fame." The star later came out of the closet and with her partner — a jewelry designer named Lois Sassoon. The two were together for more than 20 years. In 2015, Gore passed away after battling lung cancer.
Shelley Fabares (1950s-1960s)
Shelley Fabares started her career as a 10-year-old child actress. She was very young but still managed to steal the show in "The Donna Reed Show." Despite her saying that she could not sing, teens simply could not get enough of her, which led her to try her hand at music anyway.
And sure enough, it was a risk that was definitely worth taking. Fabares had a short-lived marriage to notorious producer Lou Adler after which she married her current husband, actor Mike Farrel. She never stopped acting and even produced the SAG Award show from 2004-2011. These days, she takes it pretty easy.
Paul Anka (1950s)
One of Canada’s most precious stars, Paul Anka is one of the most famous songwriters of his (and our) time. Two of his greatest hits are “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” and “Lonely Boy.” So that should tell you everything. But wait, there's more.
Anka was born in Ottawa and got his big break thanks to his uncle, who lent him the $100 he needed to record his first song at 14 years old. One of the biggest names in the 1950s, Anka is still active. In 2009, Anka said that he co-wrote Michael Jackson’s hit “This Is It” and was awarded %50 in royalties.