Totally Rad and Almost Famous: 13 ’80s Stars Who Nearly Became Hollywood’s Next Big Thing

The 1980s were a golden era for pop culture, filled with unforgettable music, movies, and television shows that defined a generation. It was a time when big hair ruled, neon colors were a fashion statement, and MTV was our sacred text. This decade allowed many talented individuals to become household names, creating huge rises in fame for various actors and musicians who captured our hearts and imaginations.

But here’s the thing about Hollywood: it’s a fickle beast! While some stars like Tom Cruise or Julia Roberts could maintain their dizzying levels of success, many others, after a fast start to their careers, simply couldn’t make that giant leap to sustained superstardom. They burned brightly for a moment, leaving an indelible mark on our memories, only to disappear from the blinding spotlight. Some still work today, sure, but they’re not the global superstars they once seemed destined to become.

So, buckle up, ’80s kids (and anyone who loves a good throwback!), because we’re taking a deep dive into the lives of some incredible actors and actresses who were totally on the brink of becoming Hollywood legends. We’re talking about those unforgettable faces from our favorite movies and TV shows who, for one reason or another, didn’t quite make it to the A-list stratosphere. Let’s revisit some of these iconic figures and see where their paths diverged from the glitzy highway to everlasting fame!

1. **Phoebe Cates**Talk about an instant sensation! Phoebe Cates arrived on the scene like a comet, capturing the hearts of pretty much every teenage boy in the ’80s. She was just 17 when she made her cinematic debut in the Blue Lagoon-like teen romance *Paradise*, bravely performing love scenes opposite co-star Willie Aames. That alone would make waves, but her next role cemented her as an ’80s icon.

Her turn in *Fast Times at Ridgemont High* was truly unforgettable. The seminal teen stoner comedy is packed with memorable moments, but none burned brighter in the collective consciousness than Cates’s iconic red bikini pool scene. This single scene launched her into instant symbol status and made it seem like she was an absolute shoe-in for a monster Hollywood career, destined for the top.

While Cates certainly enjoyed more success on the big screen during the 1980s and early ’90s, starring in the 1984 horror-comedy *Gremlins* and its 1990 sequel, and the 1991 comedy *Drop Dead Fred*, her career didn’t quite reach that next-level fame. An interesting side note: she auditioned for a part in *The Big Chill* in 1983, didn’t get the role, but did meet actor Kevin Kline, whom she married in 1989.

Over the next few years, Cates welcomed a son and then a daughter. It was then that she made a decision that would forever change her career trajectory: she chose to retire from acting to put her family first. This personal choice meant stepping away from the grind of Hollywood, leaving fans to wonder what might have been if she had pursued acting more aggressively. She only reappeared on celluloid for a small role in Jennifer Jason Leigh’s directorial debut, *The Anniversary Party*, a film that also featured Kline and their children. Today, besides her role as a mom and wife, Cates runs a charming gift boutique called Blue Tree on Madison Avenue in New York City, a quiet and successful venture far from the red carpet glare.

2. **Jami Gertz**Jami Gertz started out as a diligent child actress in the early 1980s, proving her chops with recurring roles on popular small-screen series like *Square Pegs* and *The Facts of Life*. She was a recognizable face on our TV screens, building a solid foundation for what looked to be a promising career in film and television. Her early work showed a versatility and charisma that hinted at bigger things to come.

Her true breakout moment arrived when she played the enigmatic half-vampire Star in the 1987 cult classic *The Lost Boys*. This role solidified her early star power and made her a favorite among a growing legion of fans. The following year, Gertz continued to impress, acting alongside none other than Robert Downey Jr. and Andrew McCarthy in the popular adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis’s *Less Than Zero*, proving she could hold her own with some of the era’s hottest talent.

While Gertz continued to work consistently throughout the next decade, she didn’t quite land another major hit film until 1996’s *Twister*, where she played a memorable comedic foil to Bill Paxton and Helen Hunt’s tornado chasers. Intriguingly, she reportedly turned down the opportunity to play Rachel Green on *Friends*, a role that famously launched Jennifer Aniston into superstardom. It’s one of those ‘what if’ moments that make you scratch your head!

Even without *Friends*, her 1990s and early 2000s TV filmography is pretty impressive. She had recurring roles in hit dramas like *ER* and *Ally McBeal*, and even guest-starred in the famously hilarious “I cannot spare a square” episode of *Seinfeld* in 1994. But here’s the real kicker: Gertz doesn’t actually *need* to work anymore, because she’s a billionaire! She married Anthony Ressler in 1989, when she was actually the breadwinner. Ressler later co-founded the private equity firm Apollo Global, making billions. So, while Gertz never quite became Julia Roberts on screen, she certainly hit the jackpot off screen, now serving as the public face of the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, a team she and Ressler co-own.

“Mark-Paul Gosselaar Photo Op GalaxyCon Richmond 2023” by Super Festivals from Ft. Lauderdale, USA is licensed under CC BY 2.0

3. **Mark-Paul Gosselaar**For an entire generation of ’80s and ’90s kids, Mark-Paul Gosselaar was *the* guy. Known primarily as the effortlessly cool and cunning Zack Morris from *Saved by the Bell*, he became the ultimate teen heartthrob and the face of Saturday morning television. His cheeky antics and unforgettable catchphrases are still etched in our memories!

While *Saved by the Bell* certainly launched him into widespread fame, Gosselaar didn’t just hang up his metaphorical Bay City High Letterman jacket. He continued to actively pursue acting, gracing various TV shows with his talent. You might have caught him in legal dramedies like *Franklin & Bash* or the critically acclaimed baseball series *Pitch*.

He’s truly given back to the industry that made him famous, steadily building an impressive and varied career that showcases his adaptability and dedication as an actor. While he might not be a global movie superstar, Mark-Paul Gosselaar has successfully navigated the challenging landscape of Hollywood, maintaining a respected presence and constantly adding exciting chapters to his professional story. He’s proof that you can evolve gracefully beyond your most famous role!

4. **Jennifer Grey**Jennifer Grey started her cinematic journey in 1984 with the romantic comedy *Reckless*, followed by supporting roles in *Red Dawn* and *The Cotton Club*. But for many of us, she truly burst onto the scene as Ferris Bueller’s perpetually exasperated, yet utterly relatable, antagonistic sister, Jeanie, in *Ferris Bueller’s Day Off*. Her comedic timing and expressive face were undeniable, making her a standout even in a star-studded cast.

However, her absolute breakout performance came as “Baby” in the 1987 sleeper hit movie *Dirty Dancing*. This coming-of-age romance, made for a modest $6 million, wasn’t just a hit; it became an absolute cultural touchstone for Generation X. It raked in an astonishing $213 million at the box office and millions more in video sales, with its popular soundtrack’s song “I’ve Had the Time of My Life” winning a Grammy and an Oscar. Patrick Swayze may have been the y heartthrob, but Grey was undeniably the heart of the movie.

Part of her immense appeal was that she didn’t look like the traditional Hollywood leading lady of the time. She was relatable, real, and her unique beauty resonated with audiences worldwide. Yet, shortly before *Dirty Dancing* hit theaters, Grey was involved in a devastating car accident with then-boyfriend Matthew Broderick in Ireland, where two passengers in the other car tragically perished. The emotional and physical impact stayed with Grey for years, profoundly affecting her ambition and outlook.

She openly shared, “The impact was emotional and physical. My body was never the same, my head was never the same, my ambition was never the same.” She also found the timing incredibly jarring, stating, “I became America’s sweetheart within five days of the accident. The juxtaposition of that deep sorrow, the survivor’s guilt… and then being celebrated as the new big thing just didn’t jibe. It didn’t feel good to be the toast of the town.” This immense personal trauma undoubtedly influenced her career trajectory right at the moment she should have been soaring.

Further complicating her path, Grey underwent two plastic surgery procedures on her nose in the late 1980s. While she may have emerged looking more like a conventional Hollywood leading lady, she no longer looked like herself, famously stating, “I went into the operating room a celebrity and came out anonymous. It was the nose job from hell. I’ll always be this once-famous actress nobody recognizes because of a nose job.” This struggle with her identity and public perception after her breakout role undeniably contributed to a career lull, preventing her from capitalizing on her *Dirty Dancing* fame at its peak.

5. **Judd Nelson**When we talk about ’80s teen movies, Judd Nelson’s name immediately springs to mind, largely thanks to his iconic portrayal of the rebellious John Bender in *The Breakfast Club*. He nailed the role of the misunderstood bad boy with a secret heart of gold, making Bender one of the most memorable and complex characters of the decade. That single performance alone could have, and perhaps *should* have, launched him into a stratosphere of leading roles and enduring superstardom.

Alongside his *Breakfast Club* co-stars, Nelson was part of the infamous “Brat Pack,” a group of young, good-looking, and hard-partying actors who frequently graced magazine covers and garnered significant media attention. This collective fame certainly put him on the map, suggesting a bright future filled with blockbusters. He was poised to be a major player in Hollywood, with an edge and intensity that set him apart from some of his peers.

However, while his peers like Emilio Estevez and especially Demi Moore found continued big-screen success into the ’90s, Nelson’s career took a different path. He certainly didn’t disappear entirely; he remained active in the industry, continuing to take on roles. But these were often more minor parts, and he never quite achieved the same level of global recognition or sustained box office draw that *The Breakfast Club* seemed to promise.

In recent years, Nelson has lent his distinctive voice to animated series and appeared in independent films, showcasing his enduring talent and passion for acting. While he continues to work, he hasn’t remained a major name with the masses in the same way he might have if his ’80s momentum had fully carried him forward. He’s a beloved figure from the decade, absolutely, but one whose career trajectory diverged from the path to consistent Hollywood mega-fame.

6. **Ally Sheedy**Another distinguished member of the fabled “Brat Pack,” Ally Sheedy absolutely shone in defining ’80s films like *The Breakfast Club* and *WarGames*. Her portrayal of the quiet, artistic outsider Allison Reynolds in *The Breakfast Club* was a masterclass in subtlety and raw emotion, making her a relatable and unforgettable presence for countless teenagers who felt just as misunderstood. Sheedy possessed a unique appeal, often playing characters with depth and intelligence, setting her apart from the more overtly glamorous stars of the era.

Her roles positioned her perfectly for a potentially long and illustrious career as a leading lady in Hollywood. She had the critical acclaim, the recognizable face, and the undeniable talent that seemed destined for enduring stardom. Alongside her Brat Pack peers, she was at the epicenter of ’80s youth culture, a face that graced countless magazine spreads and movie posters. The buzz was real, and the future looked incredibly bright.

However, much like some of her co-stars, Sheedy’s career didn’t quite maintain the stratospheric trajectory predicted by her early success. While she continued to work steadily, she began to focus more on smaller roles and stage performances. These choices certainly allowed her to showcase her incredible range and commitment to her craft as an actress, proving her versatility beyond the teen movie genre.

Yet, this shift away from mainstream blockbusters and high-profile projects meant that she didn’t quite remain a major name with the masses. Her talent was (and is!) undeniable, but the opportunities for large-scale fame seemed to ebb as the ’80s faded into the ’90s. Sheedy carved out a respected, if less public, career, admired by those who followed her work closely, but no longer a household name in the same vein as the superstars she once shared the screen with.

7. **Andrew McCarthy**Andrew McCarthy was the quintessential sensitive heartthrob of the 1980s, starring in beloved classics like *Pretty in Pink* and *Weekend at Bernie’s*. His charming, often introspective performances made him a household name among teen audiences. He possessed an approachable boy-next-door quality combined with an undeniable leading man appeal, making him a fixture in the era’s most popular coming-of-age stories. As another key member of the “Brat Pack,” he was part of the very fabric of ’80s Hollywood, seemingly destined for enduring fame in front of the camera.

His roles often showcased a particular type of vulnerability and intelligence, distinguishing him from some of the more overtly macho stars of the time. From the romantic lead to the bewildered sidekick, McCarthy proved his acting chops across various genres, building a strong reputation as a reliable and charismatic performer. The stage was set for him to transition seamlessly into adult leading roles and become a long-term box office draw.

However, McCarthy’s career took a fascinating pivot. Instead of solely chasing on-screen stardom, he made a significant shift to directing and writing. This move allowed him to step behind the camera and explore his creative talents in a different capacity. While he still acts occasionally, his primary focus shifted, revealing a passion for storytelling from a new perspective. This wasn’t a fade-out but a conscious re-direction of his artistic energies.

McCarthy has since created a notable career for himself behind the camera, directing episodes of popular TV shows that modern-day audiences absolutely love. His directorial credits include episodes of critically acclaimed series like *Orange is the New Black*, showcasing a keen eye for storytelling and character development. So, while he might not be gracing movie posters as frequently as he once did, Andrew McCarthy has definitely found a successful and respected niche in Hollywood, just not in the way many expected after his ’80s heyday.

Alright, ’80s fans, don’t put away your neon leg warmers just yet! We’re not done reminiscing about the incredible talent that graced our screens during the most totally tubular decade. After diving into some truly unforgettable stars who almost hit the big time, we’re ready to shine a spotlight on seven more luminaries whose paths took fascinating turns after their initial flashes of ’80s fame. Get ready for more awesome throwbacks and updates!

8. **Ralph Macchio**Who could forget the underdog hero who taught us that balance is key, both in karate and in life? Ralph Macchio first charmed us in a recurring TV role as a teenager on the popular sitcom *Eight is Enough*, laying the groundwork for what was to come. He then solidified his presence on the big screen as Johnny in the coming-of-age drama *The Outsiders*, holding his own alongside a truly stacked cast of rising stars like Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, and Matt Dillon.

But his true moment in the sun, the one that turned him into a bona fide teen idol, arrived when he starred as Daniel in the iconic 1984 film *The Karate Kid*. This martial arts drama wasn’t just a hit; it was a phenomenon, raking in an astonishing $91 million worldwide and launching Macchio into instant teen heartthrob status. He reprised his role as Daniel for two successful sequels that rounded out the decade, proving his staying power with audiences.

Post-*Karate Kid* fame, Macchio continued to showcase his chops, notably with a strong performance in the 1992 box office and critical success *My Cousin Vinny*. This role wonderfully highlighted his comedic as well as dramatic talents, proving he could do more than just crane kicks. However, despite this success, his career didn’t quite maintain the same meteoric trajectory as he transitioned into adult roles, struggling to land another consistent hit movie.

Instead of global blockbusters, Macchio carved out a niche for himself, often appearing in cameo roles as himself in the 2000s on shows like *Entourage* and *How I Met Your Mother*. He also had a recurring role on *Ugly Betty* and co-starred in *Beer League*. But here’s the cool part: Macchio has experienced a truly awesome return to the spotlight in recent years, reprising his legendary role as Daniel for the YouTube Premium series *Cobra Kai*, which Netflix later picked up. It’s set 34 years after the original film, proving that some legends truly never die and can find a whole new generation of fans!

9. **Anthony Michael Hall**If you were an ’80s kid, you definitely knew Anthony Michael Hall! He was the king of playing the classic nerd, perfectly capturing the awkward charm and angst of adolescence in iconic films like *Sixteen Candles* and *Weird Science*. His roles were instantly recognizable and made him a beloved figure for anyone who felt a little out of place during their teenage years.

But here’s the thing about being typecast: it can be tough to break free! Hall, however, was up to the challenge. He reinvented himself later in his career, taking on significantly different roles that showed off his versatility. We saw him in *The Dead Zone* TV series, where he proved he could tackle serious drama with incredible depth, shedding his geeky image.

And talk about a major glow-up! Hall also delivered a memorable performance in the blockbuster *The Dark Knight*, showcasing his ability to move beyond his ’80s persona and command the screen in a whole new way. He proved that even if you’re known for one thing, you can absolutely break out and show the world what else you’ve got, keeping us guessing and always impressed.

10. **Judge Reinhold**Ah, Judge Reinhold! His face was practically synonymous with ’80s comedies, making him a super familiar presence for anyone who loved a good laugh during the decade. He made us chuckle in hits like *Beverly Hills Cop* and *Fast Times at Ridgemont High*, cementing his place in our hearts as a go-to guy for comedic relief and charming supporting roles.

But as the ’80s faded into the ’90s and beyond, Reinhold’s career trajectory slowed down a bit. While he never completely disappeared, he certainly stepped away from the intense glare of the Hollywood spotlight that shone so brightly on him in his heyday. It seems he made a conscious choice for a more subdued pace, opting for a life less consumed by constant fame.

These days, you might still catch him popping up in occasional acting roles, reminding us of his enduring talent and the good old days. He’s definitely enjoying a quieter life, a far cry from the bustling sets of his biggest hits. It’s a testament to choosing contentment over continuous celebrity, and we totally respect that!

Lea Thompson in Howard the Duck — File:Lea Thompson February 2015 crop.JPG – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

11. **Lea Thompson**Great Scott! Lea Thompson absolutely captured audiences’ attention as Lorraine Baines in the iconic *Back to the Future* trilogy. That role, which is still incredibly popular today, managed to make her a name known worldwide, cementing her status as a genuine ’80s movie star. She played Lorraine in multiple timelines, showcasing her impressive range and adaptability.

After her time-traveling adventures, Thompson didn’t just fade away! She expertly transitioned into directing, proving that her talents weren’t limited to being in front of the camera. This career pivot allowed her to explore her creative vision from a new perspective, adding another impressive string to her professional bow.

Beyond her directorial ventures, Thompson continues to act, gracing our screens frequently in various TV series and films. While she may not be headlining blockbuster movies as often as she did in the ’80s, she’s built a wonderfully consistent and respected career, showing us that longevity in Hollywood can come in many different forms. She’s definitely still got it!

12. **Tony Danza**Who’s the boss? Well, Tony Danza certainly was the boss of our TV screens for a good chunk of the ’80s! Beloved for his charming, charismatic roles in classic sitcoms like *Taxi* and *Who’s the Boss?*, he brought a unique blend of toughness and warmth to every character. He quickly became a household name, synonymous with family-friendly prime-time entertainment.

But Danza is a man of many talents, and in recent years, he’s actually focused on something pretty incredible: teaching! He embraced a new chapter in his life, dedicating his time and energy to education, which is a truly inspiring career shift. It just goes to show you that even big stars have passions beyond the spotlight.

And if that wasn’t enough, he’s also taken on Broadway roles, reminding us all of his incredible acting range and stage presence. This diverse career path proves that Tony Danza is much more than just his ’80s sitcom characters; he’s a versatile performer and a genuinely interesting person who constantly seeks new challenges and ways to connect with people, whether on stage or in a classroom.

13. **Keshia Knight Pulliam**When we think of ’80s TV, Keshia Knight Pulliam’s adorable face as Rudy Huxtable on *The Cosby Show* immediately springs to mind. She literally grew up on our screens, becoming one of television’s most beloved child stars and instantly making a name for herself in homes across the country. Her performances were incredibly endearing and memorable.

Even after *The Cosby Show* wrapped up, Keshia remained active in the world of television, showing her enduring passion for entertainment. She continued to take on roles, proving that her talent extended far beyond her childhood character. It’s always cool to see child stars transition successfully into adult careers, and she certainly did!

In recent years, she’s also ventured into the exciting (and sometimes wild!) world of reality TV, participating in shows like *Celebrity Big Brother*. These appearances gave fans a fresh glimpse into who she really is, allowing us to connect with the person behind the iconic character. Keshia Knight Pulliam has beautifully navigated her career, keeping her presence known and her fans engaged, all while exploring diverse avenues in entertainment.

Whew, what a ride through memory lane! These incredible ’80s stars may not have all hit the same stratospheric heights as some of their peers, but their impact on our pop culture hearts is absolutely undeniable. Each of them, in their own unique way, contributed to the magic of the decade, leaving us with timeless performances and a whole lot of nostalgia. Their journeys, whether taking them to family life, new career ventures, or quiet retirements, remind us that success can be measured in so many different ways. And for that, we’ll always be fans!