Additional Coverage:
- 12 Talented Child Stars of the ’80s (wealthgang.com)
The 1980s truly delivered some of Hollywood’s most unforgettable child stars – young actors who not only carried blockbuster movies and led popular sitcoms but, in some cases, became millionaires before they could even legally drive. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and celebrate a dozen of these talented kids who defined the decade with their undeniable charm and star power.
1. Drew Barrymore
Who could forget Gertie? Before she became a talk show host and a bona fide Hollywood icon, Drew Barrymore charmed audiences worldwide in “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.” Her debut role in the beloved sci-fi classic launched a career that’s still going strong today.
2. Macaulay Culkin
Long before he was setting booby traps for burglars, Macaulay Culkin first tickled our funny bones in 1989’s “Uncle Buck” with the legendary John Candy. It’s almost a shame that brilliant comedic pairing didn’t get more screen time together, especially considering what came next with “Home Alone”!
3. Fred Savage
From the heartwarming “The Wonder Years” to the fantastical “The Princess Bride,” Fred Savage was undeniably one of the most charming young actors of the 1980s. His memorable performance in “The Wonder Years” even earned him prestigious Emmy, Golden Globe, and People’s Choice nominations and awards.
4. Corey Feldman & Corey Haim
You couldn’t talk about ’80s teen idols without mentioning “The Two Coreys.” Corey Feldman lit up the screen in classics like “The Goonies” and “Stand by Me,” while Corey Haim captured hearts in “Lucas” and the iconic “The Lost Boys” (where he also starred with Feldman).
Their real-life friendship only amplified their teen idol status. Even after Haim’s untimely passing, Feldman has kept their legacy alive, often sharing memories in interviews and on various television appearances.
5. Kirk Cameron
As the mischievous Mike Seaver on “Growing Pains,” Kirk Cameron quickly became one of television’s most beloved teen heartthrobs. By the late ’80s, his face was practically synonymous with young Hollywood, making him one of the most recognizable teen actors on the small screen.
6. Keshia Knight Pulliam
Little Rudy Huxtable instantly stole our hearts at the tender age of 5 on “The Cosby Show.” Her stellar performance in the role was so impactful that she received an Emmy nomination by age 6, making her one of the youngest individuals ever to be recognized for the prestigious award.
7. Neil Patrick Harris
Before he was suiting up as Barney Stinson in “How I Met Your Mother,” Neil Patrick Harris was America’s favorite teen prodigy doctor on “Doogie Howser, M.D.” Debuting in 1989, he set the standard for “precocious kid outsmarts the adults” roles and has built an impressive career that shows no signs of slowing down.
8. Emmanuel Lewis
Standing just 4 feet tall, Emmanuel Lewis made a massive impact as Webster, the adorable and quick-witted foster kid who captured hearts nationwide from 1983 to 1989 on the hit sitcom “Webster.” His small stature, coupled with his undeniable charisma, made him a true household name of the ’80s.
9. Alyssa Milano
As Samantha Micelli on “Who’s the Boss?”, Alyssa Milano literally grew up in front of millions, evolving into every teen magazine’s favorite cover girl. Her popularity soared to such heights in the late ’80s that she even launched a successful singing career overseas in Japan.
10. Danica McKellar
Danica McKellar stole our hearts as Winnie Cooper on “The Wonder Years,” playing opposite Fred Savage in one of television’s most iconic and nostalgic romances. Their onscreen chemistry ignited a desire among viewers for the couple to be together in real life – a trend that has become an all-out frenzy in modern pop culture.
11. Tina Yothers
Best recognized as Jennifer Keaton on “Family Ties,” Tina Yothers spent much of the ’80s trading witty quips with none other than Michael J. Fox. After the popular show concluded, she transitioned into the music scene, fronting her own band.
12. Soleil Moon Frye
With her signature mismatched shoes and fearless spirit, Soleil Moon Frye became a household name as the unforgettable Punky Brewster. While the show enjoyed a relatively short run, Punky’s vibrant style and spunky attitude solidified her as one of the decade’s most beloved and iconic characters.
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- 12 Talented Child Stars of the ’80s (wealthgang.com)