• The ’80s, a decade of iconic styles and unforgettable celebrities, greatly impacted pop culture.
  • As times have changed, so too have the lives of these stars.
  • In this look back, we look at the lives of five such celebrities and what they’ve been up to since leaving the limelight.
Kelly McGillis, circa 1987 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Kelly McGillis, circa 1987 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

As the years roll by, our favorite silver screen icons from the 80s continue to evolve, in their art and appearance. This retrospective glance offers a deeper understanding of the personal and professional metamorphoses of Kelly Ann McGillis, Gene Hackman, Shelley Duvall, Leif Garrett, and Jake Lloyd.

Gene Hackman poses for a portrait, circa 1965 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman poses for a portrait, circa 1965 | Source: Getty Images

Once a Hollywood heartthrob, McGillis has gracefully embraced a life away from Hollywood’s relentless spotlight, her blonde locks giving way to a distinguished silver. Meanwhile, Hackman, the two-time Academy Award winner, stepped out of the limelight to pursue a quieter life.
Shelley Duvall in a scene from the movie "3 Women" in 1977 | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall in a scene from the movie “3 Women” in 1977 | Source: Getty Images

Duvall, known for her haunting role as Wendy Torrance in the 1980 horror film, now lives a life markedly different from her acting days. As for Garrett, the teen idol of the 70s and 80s, he faced several personal challenges along the way.

Leif Garrett in New York, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett in New York, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Actor Jake Lloyd attends The Hollywood Reporter's 3rd Annual YoungStar Awards on November 8, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

Actor Jake Lloyd attends The Hollywood Reporter’s 3rd Annual YoungStar Awards on November 8, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

Kelly Ann McGillis: From Hollywood Stardom to Personal Transformation

Kelly Ann McGillis, the ’80s bombshell, was born in 1957 in Newport Beach, California. Her lineage is a rich blend of English, Welsh, Scots Irish, and German roots. Driven by her love for acting, McGillis dropped out of high school to study at renowned institutions like Juilliard and the Pacific Conservatory of the Performing Arts.

Kelly McGillis poses during a portrait session on May 15, 1985 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

Kelly McGillis poses during a portrait session on May 15, 1985 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

McGillis’s career took off in 1985 with her role in the thriller film, “Witness,” alongside Harrison Ford. This success paved the way for her iconic role as Charlie Blackwood in the 1986 blockbuster “Top Gun,” where she played the love interest of Tom Cruise’s character, Maverick.

Kelly McGillis poses during a portrait session on May 15, 1985 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

Kelly McGillis poses during a portrait session on May 15, 1985 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

Even with her onscreen success, McGillis stayed true to her love for theater, taking on various stage roles. In the 1990s, she became a mother of two lovely daughters. She chose to balance her career with family life, working intermittently in TV and film, and even venturing into business by establishing a restaurant in Florida.
Kelly McGillis in a scene from "Top Gun" in 1986 | Source: Getty Images

Kelly McGillis in a scene from “Top Gun” in 1986 | Source: Getty Images

McGillis, in a discussion back in 2019, disclosed that she wasn’t invited to reprise her role in the sequel to “Top Gun,” titled “Top Gun: Maverick.”

She responded to this news candidly, saying, “Oh my god, no. They did not endorse me. I mean, I’m old and I’m fat and I look age-appropriate for what my age is, and that is not what that whole team is about. I’d much rather feel absolutely secure in my skin and who and what I am at my age.”

Kelly McGillis in a scene from “Top Gun” in 1986 | Source: Getty Images

At the time of the interview, McGillis was living a quiet life in North Carolina with her children, Sonora and Kelsey Tillman. She spoke openly about her decision to step back from Hollywood, explaining that she had embarked on a journey of self-discovery and sobriety.

Kelly McGillis poses during a portrait photo session in 1988 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

Kelly McGillis poses during a portrait photo session in 1988 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

“It was very challenging for me to have any kind of sense of self or self-identity or real self-worth other than what I did for a living,” she divulged. She continued, “And it just didn’t become a priority; what became the priority initially was raising my girls and being the best sober parent I could be.”
Kelly McGillis attends the "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" Los Angeles premiere on May 17, 2010 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Kelly McGillis attends the “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time” Los Angeles premiere on May 17, 2010 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

She further explained that her life priorities had shifted, “It wasn’t like a major decision that I made to leave, it was just that other things became more important.” She expressed her deep affection for the performing arts, particularly acting and theater. However, she acknowledged that her interpersonal relationships gained more importance than her pursuit of fame.

Kelly McGillis attends the "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" Los Angeles premiere on May 17, 2010 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Kelly McGillis attends the “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time” Los Angeles premiere on May 17, 2010 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Identifying as a homebody, McGillis expressed gratitude for having the option to work, despite not having done so for some time. She also revealed that she had been diagnosed with alpha one antitrypsin disorder about five years earlier.

“I feel really blessed that I don’t have to work. But I get the option to work, so I’m really blessed in that way. Not many people get that option later in life, so I feel very lucky,” expressed McGillis.

Kelly McGillis attends the "Love Finds You in Sugar Creek, Ohio" panel discussion on January 11, 2014 in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images

Kelly McGillis attends the “Love Finds You in Sugar Creek, Ohio” panel discussion on January 11, 2014 in Pasadena, California | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman: From Hollywood Legend to Ranch Life

Gene Allen Hackman, who was born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California, is a retired American actor. His extraordinary acting career stretched over more than sixty years.

Gene Hackman on June 28, 1972 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman on June 28, 1972 | Source: Getty Images

With a legacy that includes 33 awards from 39 nominations, including two Oscars, two BAFTA Awards, four Golden Globes, a Silver Bear, and a Screen Actors Guild Award, Hackman’s impact on the film industry is undeniable.

Gene Hackman on September 3, 1973 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman on September 3, 1973 | Source: Getty Images

His most memorable roles include performances in “The French Connection,” “Unforgiven,” “Bonnie and Clyde,” “The Conversation,” “Superman,” and “French Connection II.” Hackman’s passion for acting was ignited early on, as he revealed, “From the time I saw my first movie as a boy, I wanted to be an actor.”
Gene Hackman in 1983 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman in 1983 | Source: Getty Images

His breakthrough came in his thirties with the movie “Bonnie and Clyde” in 1967, earning him his first Academy Award nomination. During that period, he was wedded to his initial spouse, Faye Maltese. The couple was blessed with three offspring, namely Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie. However, as Hackman’s career took off, his personal life suffered some challenges.

Gene Hackman on January 17, 1974 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman on January 17, 1974 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman playing Lex Luthor in "Superman" in 1978 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman playing Lex Luthor in “Superman” in 1978 | Source: Getty Images

His marriage to Maltese ended in divorce in 1986 after 30 years. Reflecting on his Hollywood career, Hackman admitted that the industry could make one extremely self-centered, leading to difficult choices and sacrifices, including spending prolonged periods away from family due to work commitments.

Gene Hackman at the Toyota Celebrity/Long Beach Grand Prix Race on March 14, 1981 in Long Beach, California | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman at the Toyota Celebrity/Long Beach Grand Prix Race on March 14, 1981 in Long Beach, California | Source: Getty Images

In recent years, Hackman has reconnected with his children and their families, expressing regret for not being more present in their lives in the past. Hackman’s life took a turn for the better when he encountered Betsy Arakawa, a pianist with a classical background, at a fitness center during the 1980s.
Gene Hackman on January 11, 1984 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman on January 11, 1984 | Source: Getty Images

Despite their significant age gap, the couple tied the knot in 1991 and have remained together since. In a 2008 interview, he expressed a genuine lack of desire to continue working, admitting that he missed performing, which he had passionately pursued for almost 60 years.

Gene Hackman at the Toyota/Long Beach Grand Prix Race on March 30, 1984 in Long Beach, California | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman at the Toyota/Long Beach Grand Prix Race on March 30, 1984 in Long Beach, California | Source: Getty Images

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Gene Hackman in 1988 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman in 1988 | Source: Getty Images

However, he found the business side of the industry, with its necessary compromises and challenges, increasingly burdensome. Hackman’s decision to retire was not surprising, given his lifelong focus on the craft of acting rather than the pursuit of fame. His training prepared him for portraying characters, not for navigating the challenges of fame, agents, lawyers, and the press.

Gene Hackman on the set of "The Quick and the Dead" in 1993 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman on the set of “The Quick and the Dead” in 1993 | Source: Getty Images

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His retirement was not prompted by scandal but rather by a sobering reality. After a stress test in New York revealed a heart condition, Hackman was advised by his doctor to avoid further strain. This medical assessment, combined with his lack of desire for fame and the dark side of popularity, ultimately led him away from Hollywood.

Gene Hackman shakes hands with US President Ronald Reagan on February 6, 1987 in Washington, DC | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman shakes hands with US President Ronald Reagan on February 6, 1987 in Washington, DC | Source: Getty Images

With a lot of free time at his disposal, Hackman plunged into a new career path as a writer. Collaborating with his neighbor and friend, Daniel Lenihan, he co-authored a series of captivating historical adventure novels.

Gene Hackman poses for a portrait, circa 1996 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman poses for a portrait, circa 1996 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

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It’s not entirely accurate to label this as a brand-new career; the journey began with the release of “Wake Of The Perdido Star” in 1999, while Hackman was still gracing the silver screen. Subsequently, the courtroom drama “Justice For None” followed in 2004, shortly after Hackman bid farewell to his acting days.

Gene Hackman during "The Royal Tenenbaums" Los Angeles premiere on December 6, 2001 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman during “The Royal Tenenbaums” Los Angeles premiere on December 6, 2001 | Source: Getty Images

Today, Hackman leads a quiet life in New Mexico, cherishing the serene life he shares with his wife, Arakawa. He enjoys hobbies such as painting, sketching, and driving his pick-up trucks. Sources claim that the former actor is in excellent health, and enjoys cycling, being a handyman, and doing yard work.

Gene Hackman during the 60th Golden Globe Awards on January 19, 2003 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman during the 60th Golden Globe Awards on January 19, 2003 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman during the "Runaway Jury" press conference on September 19, 2003 | Source: Getty Images

Gene Hackman during the “Runaway Jury” press conference on September 19, 2003 | Source: Getty Images

Despite not having biological children together, Hackman and Arakawa maintain a strong bond with Hackman’s children, Leslie, Elizabeth, and Christopher. Hackman has built a close relationship with them and his grandchildren, despite his regrets about not being more present in their lives in the past.

Shelley Alexis Duvall: From Silver Screen to Tranquil Texas

Shelley Alexis Duvall, born on July 7, 1949, in Fort Worth, Texas, has lived a life as colorful and diverse as the characters she portrayed. Duvall’s artistic spirit was evident from a young age. Her mother humorously nicknamed her “Manic Mouse” for her energetic antics, but Duvall was more than a mouse; she was a budding artist, with drawing being her favorite pastime.
Shelley Duvall attends the "Starstruck" premiere on January 25, 1983 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall attends the “Starstruck” premiere on January 25, 1983 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

After graduating from high school and initially working as a cosmetics salesperson, Duvall’s life took a dramatic turn in 1970 when she was discovered by talent scouts at a local party. Director Robert Altman, the director, recognized Duvall’s potential, who had some acting experience from her high school days, and gave her a role in her debut film, “Brewster McCloud.”

Shelley Duvall poses on June 14, 1986 in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall poses on June 14, 1986 in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images

Altman, impressed by her acting skills, cast her in many of his following films, including “McCabe and Mrs. Miller,” “Thieves Like Us,” and “Nashville.” Duvall’s acting career blossomed with her leading role in “3 Women” in 1977, a performance that earned her Best Actress at the 1977 Cannes Film Festival.

Shelley Duvall in 1986 | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall in 1986 | Source: Getty Images

Duvall continued to leave her imprint on the film industry with her performances in “Bernice Bobs Her Hair” and a guest appearance in Woody Allen’s critically acclaimed “Annie Hall,” and even hosted an episode of “Saturday Night Live.”
Shelley Duvall attends the American Ireland Fund Premiere Heritage Awards Dinner on November 11, 1988 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall attends the American Ireland Fund Premiere Heritage Awards Dinner on November 11, 1988 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

In 1979, Altman offered Duvall a role that he believed was perfect for her: Olive Oyl in the live-action adaptation of “Popeye.” Despite initial reservations due to childhood memories of being negatively called Olive Oyl, Duvall accepted the role and delivered a memorable performance, even singing several songs in the film.

Shelley Duvall at Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 4, 1989 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall at Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 4, 1989 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

The 1980s marked a significant period in Duvall’s career, most notably for her role as Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining,” alongside Jack Nicholson. The filming process was intense, with Kubrick often ignoring Duvall or putting her in distressing situations.
Shelley Duvall attends the Museum of Broadcasting's Sixth Annual Television Festival on February 28, 1989 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall attends the Museum of Broadcasting’s Sixth Annual Television Festival on February 28, 1989 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images

A particularly violent scene involving a baseball bat was filmed 127 times, setting a record for the highest number of takes for a single scene. Duvall’s career saw significant growth throughout the 1980s. In 1989, working on the Disney Channel movie “Mother Goose Rock ‘n’ Rhyme,” she met Dan Gilroy, and the two have been a couple since then.

Shelley Duvall during 1994 Cable Ace Awards on January 15, 1994 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall during 1994 Cable Ace Awards on January 15, 1994 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Duvall continued to take on a variety of roles until the early 2000s. In 2002, she stepped away from acting and returned to Blanco, Texas, where she lived a quiet and peaceful life. However, in 2023, she made a comeback with a supporting role in an independent horror film, “The Forest Hills,” which had its premiere on March 11 in New Jersey.
Shelley Duvall's portrait, dated December 14, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall’s portrait, dated December 14, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Duvall expressed her happiness about returning to acting, stating, “Acting again—it’s so much fun. It enriches your life.” Her prolonged absence from Hollywood led to rumors about her mental health. However, in a 2023 interview with People Magazine, Duvall presented herself as sharp, earthy, a bit eccentric, and sometimes emotional as she reflected on her remarkable career.

Shelley Duvall's portrait, dated December 14, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Shelley Duvall’s portrait, dated December 14, 2023 | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett: A Teen Idol’s Struggle and Redemption

Leif Garrett, born on November 8, 1961, in Hollywood, began his journey in the entertainment industry at the tender age of 5. He starred in films such as “Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice” in 1969 and “Walking Tall,” in 1973. He also landed roles in television shows like “Family Affair,” “Gunsmoke,” and “Three for the Road.”

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Garrett entered the music industry in his mid-teens, signing a deal with Atlantic Records in 1977 and releasing his debut album the same year. His initial hits were mostly covers of popular songs from the 1960s. His career skyrocketed when he released the album “Feel the Need” in 1978.

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

The album included his most popular single, “I Was Made for Dancin’,” which reached No. 10 on the Billboard charts. Despite his early success and worldwide fan base, Garrett’s adult career was filled with challenges. Known for his partying lifestyle off-camera, he admitted to starting drug use at the tender age of 14.
Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

This path of self-destruction culminated in a serious car accident on November 3, 1979, just days before his 18th birthday. The accident left his friend Roland Winkler, a dancer, paralyzed and led to a lengthy legal battle between the two. The accident had a profound impact on Garrett, leaving him with a deep sense of guilt over his role in the crash.

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

In a heartfelt reunion on a 1999 episode of VH1’s “Behind the Music,” Winkler stated that Garrett had saved his life in some way and that he wouldn’t switch places with him if given the chance to relive the night of the accident. This unplanned meet-up was emotional for Garrett, who described the accident as a “horrible lesson.”
Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

By the mid-’80s, Garrett’s career had waned, and he returned to acting in movies that didn’t gain much traction. He also struggled with substance abuse and the guilt over his involvement in Winkler’s paralysis. In 2020, Garrett revealed that Winkler had since passed away. He died on May 25, 2017, at the age of 57, after dealing with constant physical problems resulting from the accident.

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

After his music career began to decline in the early 1980s, Garrett gradually returned to acting full-time. Besides a small role in 1983’s “The Outsiders,” which also featured future Hollywood stars such as Patrick SwayzeEmilio Estevez, and Tom Cruise, the former teen idol mostly appeared in a series of unremarkable B-movies.
Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett in Los Angeles, California, circa 1976 | Source: Getty Images

He was also heavily into heroin abuse as he found himself drifting further away from his heyday as a pop star. Despite overcoming his heroin addiction and rekindling his friendship with Winkler, Garrett’s struggles were far from over.

Leif Garrett on concert tour, circa 1979 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett on concert tour, circa 1979 in Tokyo, Japan | Source: Getty Images

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Shortly after publicly announcing his newfound sobriety on “Behind the Music,” Garrett faced a different kind of spotlight: he was arrested in Los Angeles by undercover officers posing as drug dealers. Unfortunately, his struggle with drugs persisted, resulting in several arrests in 2004 and 2006.

Leif Garrett attends a red carpet event on December 3, 2005 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett attends a red carpet event on December 3, 2005 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

The latter arrest led to a prison sentence. In February 2010, law enforcement officers at a Los Angeles train station discovered black tar heroin concealed in his footwear. Later that same year, he became a part of the fourth season of “Celebrity Rehab” with Dr. Drew. In 2011, he claimed that the show’s producers attempted to create drama by encouraging him to use drugs while filming.

Leif Garrett attends the "Dickie Roberts" premiere on September 3, 2003 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett attends the “Dickie Roberts” premiere on September 3, 2003 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

In November 2019, he released his memoir, “Idol Truth,” and openly discussed his past struggles with addiction in an interview in January 2020. At that point, he was living a clean and sober life. In 2013, Garrett offered guidance to Justin Bieber, who was then experiencing his own troubled phase as a teen star.
Leif Garrett at Falcon Restaurant on November 10, 2004 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett at Falcon Restaurant on November 10, 2004 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

He warned Bieber not to believe his own publicity and stressed the importance of discerning who his real friends were. Garrett later revealed that during his time as a teenage idol, his managers had lied and said he was sick from exhaustion to sell out his shows. He was forced to live this lie, and his voice was processed until it barely sounded like him.

Leif Garrett attends the premiere of "Take Me Home Tonight" on March 2, 2011 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett attends the premiere of “Take Me Home Tonight” on March 2, 2011 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

He was made to sing with technical help and lip-sync on stage at concerts, which he felt was unfair to his fans. By 2001, Garrett was facing severe financial difficulties. His only income was a monthly allowance of $1,000 from his mother. With debts exceeding $76,000, Garrett declared bankruptcy, listing his assets as some clothing, household goods, and $350 in cash.
Leif Garrett performs live onstage on July 25, 2015 in Indianapolis, Indiana | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett performs live onstage on July 25, 2015 in Indianapolis, Indiana | Source: Getty Images

As of 2022, Garrett’s total assets amounted to approximately $10,000. Despite his struggles, Garrett expressed gratitude for the experiences he had, though he wished things could have been better. He now plays music because he loves it and is not in a rush to do more unless it feels right and as real as possible.

Leif Garrett at the The Hollywood Show on April 9, 2016 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Leif Garrett at the The Hollywood Show on April 9, 2016 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Jake Lloyd: From Star Wars to Personal Battles

Jake Matthew Lloyd, recognized for his role as Anakin Skywalker in “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace,” was born on March 5, 1989, in Fort Collins, Colorado. His foray into the film industry began early, with appearances in commercials and episodes of “ER.”

Jake Lloyd at the 1999 premiere of "Star Wars: Phantom Menace" on September 10, 1999 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd at the 1999 premiere of “Star Wars: Phantom Menace” on September 10, 1999 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty images

Lloyd’s first debut in “Unhook the Stars” in 1996, and later that year, he fulfilled his dream of working with Arnold Schwarzenegger in the holiday film “Jingle All the Way.” His career took a significant leap when director George Lucas selected him from around 3,000 child actors to play the nine-year-old Anakin Skywalker in the eagerly awaited “Star Wars” prequel.

Jake Lloyd at a photocall in Trafalgar Square, London, England | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd at a photocall in Trafalgar Square, London, England | Source: Getty images

Though the film was a huge success, becoming the second-highest-grossing movie globally at the time, “The Phantom Menace” faced extreme negative backlash from critics and audiences alike. The reaction to Lloyd’s performance as Anakin Skywalker led him to retire from acting after Episode I.

Jake Lloyd at the Westwood premiere of "Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace" on May 16, 1999 in Westwood, California | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd at the Westwood premiere of “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” on May 16, 1999 in Westwood, California | Source: Getty images

However, he returned to voice Anakin in five “Star Wars” video games produced by LucasArts. Lloyd’s last filmed role was in “Madison” in 2005, starring Jim Caviezel. After leaving Hollywood, he moved with his family to Indianapolis, Indiana. He graduated from high school in 2007 and enrolled at college to study film and psychology, but dropped out in 2008.
Jake Lloyd and mother Lisa at the Westwood premiere of "Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace" on May 16, 1999 in Westwood, California | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd and mother Lisa at the Westwood premiere of “Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace” on May 16, 1999 in Westwood, California | Source: Getty images

Since then, Lloyd has led a life that has largely remained a mystery to his fans. As the silver anniversary of the iconic film approaches in May 2024, Lloyd’s absence from the celebratory coverage is noticeable. In an exclusive interview, his mother, Lisa Flowers Broadbent, provided a glimpse into her son’s life post-Star Wars.

Jake Lloyd at the premiere of Rugrats in "Live Adventure" on March 26, 1999 in Universal City, California | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd at the premiere of Rugrats in “Live Adventure” on March 26, 1999 in Universal City, California | Source: Getty images

She revealed Lloyd’s turbulent struggle with mental illness, family tragedy, and his thoughts about “Star Wars.” Broadbent revealed that Lloyd started having trouble in high school. He began questioning reality, unsure if he was in this reality or a different one. This change in his personality led Broadbent to seek medical help for Lloyd.
Jake Lloyd with director George Lucas on July 14, 1999 | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd with director George Lucas on July 14, 1999 | Source: Getty images

A doctor suggested he might have bipolar disorder, but the medications they tried didn’t work. Lloyd’s struggles continued into his college years at Columbia College Chicago. He missed a lot of classes and often felt that people were following him.

Jake Lloyd with Arnold Schwarzenegger on the set of "Jingle All the Way" in 1996 | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd with Arnold Schwarzenegger on the set of “Jingle All the Way” in 1996 | Source: Getty images

He would sometimes mention seeing people with “black eyes” staring at him on the street and having late-night conversations with “Daily Show” host Jon Stewart through his TV. He could not stay in school any longer and after leaving college in March 2008, Lloyd moved back to Indiana to live with his mother, Broadbent.
Jake Lloyd attends the screening of his new movie "Madison" on January 24, 2001 | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd attends the screening of his new movie “Madison” on January 24, 2001 | Source: Getty images

After a series of appointments with therapists and psychiatrists, he was eventually diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. The diagnosis threw Lloyd into an even deeper depression. His condition was further complicated by anosognosia, a neurological disorder that causes a patient to be unaware of their symptoms or unconsciously deny them.

Jake Lloyd attends the world premiere of "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" on May 12, 2005 in San Francisco, California | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd attends the world premiere of “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” on May 12, 2005 in San Francisco, California | Source: Getty images

Lloyd, who did not believe he was ill, often declined to take his medication or consult a therapist. Certain medications lost their effectiveness over time, and Lloyd sometimes opted to self-medicate with illicit drugs. In 2015, during a solo road trip from Florida to Canada, Lloyd was arrested after leading deputies on a multi-county chase before crashing his car.

This news made its way to the headlines, sparking a range of responses from online users. One individual reacted with surprise, exclaiming“No!! …Who is this again?” while, another user remarked“He has turned to the dark side.”

Jake Lloyd attends the world premiere of "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" on May 12, 2005 in San Francisco, California | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd attends the world premiere of “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” on May 12, 2005 in San Francisco, California | Source: Getty images

After the incident, Lloyd spent 10 months in jail, refusing to communicate with his mother and declining his medication. Broadbent tirelessly advocated for her son, sending him notes and cards while he was in jail and eventually getting him into a hospital for treatment. However, it was challenging to ensure Lloyd attended doctor’s appointments and took his medications.

George Lucas director of Star Wars, Amanda Lucas, Jett Lucas and Jake Lloyd attend the after party of the world premiere of "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" on May 12, 2005 in San Francisco, California | Source: Getty images

George Lucas director of Star Wars, Amanda Lucas, Jett Lucas and Jake Lloyd attend the after party of the world premiere of “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” on May 12, 2005 in San Francisco, California | Source: Getty images

On one occasion, Lloyd called in a panic, believing he had been shot by an intruder in his apartment, but Broadbent realized he was hallucinating. The death of Lloyd’s younger sister, Madison, in 2018, was a significant blow for him. Madison, who had also appeared in “The Phantom Menace,” had always encouraged Lloyd to take better care of himself.
Jake Lloyd and Jett Lucas attend the after party of the world premiere of "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" on May 12, 2005 in San Francisco, California | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd and Jett Lucas attend the after party of the world premiere of “Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith” on May 12, 2005 in San Francisco, California | Source: Getty images

Her unexpected death left Lloyd reeling, unable to process his grief. In March 2023, Lloyd experienced a severe psychotic episode. During a drive home after picking up food at McDonald’s, Lloyd turned off the car in the middle of a three-lane road, causing a traffic jam and leading to his admission to a hospital.

Jake Lloyd attends the "Star Wars Celebration IV" convention on May 27, 2007 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd attends the “Star Wars Celebration IV” convention on May 27, 2007 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty images

He was later transferred to an inpatient program at a mental health rehabilitation facility. Broadbent has noted remarkable improvement in Lloyd during his stay at the facility. He is relating better to people, becoming more social, and starting to understand more about his condition and the importance of consistently taking his medication.

For the first time in many years, Lloyd, 35, is showing enthusiasm for social activities, such as attending barbecues and celebrating holidays. Broadbent, shares that Lloyd still loves “Star Wars” and enjoys the new series and movies.

Jake Lloyd attends the "Star Wars Celebration IV" convention on May 27, 2007 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd attends the “Star Wars Celebration IV” convention on May 27, 2007 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty images

Broadbent insists that Lloyd’s decision to quit acting was not due to the backlash from “The Phantom Menace,” but rather due to family issues and a lack of enjoyment in auditioning. She acknowledges that Lloyd’s schizophrenia would have developed regardless of his “Star Wars” fame, pointing to a history of the condition on his biological father’s side.

Jake Lloyd attends Wizard World's Philadelphia Comic Con 2011 on June 17, 2011 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd attends Wizard World’s Philadelphia Comic Con 2011 on June 17, 2011 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Source: Getty images

She also shares that Lloyd is showing improvement in his mental health and social interactions, and she remains hopeful for his future. While Broadbent doesn’t foresee Lloyd returning to “Star Wars,” she expresses a desire for him to reach a point where he could engage in activities he enjoys.

Despite the challenges, Broadbent emphasizes that they are in a better place now and look forward to a brighter future for Lloyd. The 1980s were a defining decade for pop culture, fashion, and cinema, leaving an indelible mark on those who lived through it.

Jake Lloyd and Daniel Logan attend Wizard World's Philadelphia Comic Con 2011 on June 17, 2011 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Source: Getty images

Jake Lloyd and Daniel Logan attend Wizard World’s Philadelphia Comic Con 2011 on June 17, 2011 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | Source: Getty images

Among the era’s most memorable contributions were its celebrities—icons of a generation whose images were etched into the public consciousness. Now, decades later, the life stories of these five celebrities highlight the complexities and challenges that often accompany fame.

Each of these individuals has navigated their own unique path, facing personal struggles and professional highs and lows. Their stories are a mosaic of change, showcasing the unexpected ways time transforms lives, legacies, and looks.

By editor

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