7 Famous Kids from the ’80s Who Are Now Parents Themselves – Photos

Fast forward to today, and these stars have taken on the most significant roles of their lives: becoming parents. We celebrate seven child stars from the ’80s who have embraced the adventures of raising their own children.

Jodie Sweetin: Inspiring the Next Generation

First on the list is Jodie Sweetin whose rise to fame began with her portrayal of Stephanie Tanner on the beloved sitcom “Full House.” Born in 1982, Sweetin became a household name as she grew up on screen, her character becoming a fan favorite.

Sweetin’s role on “Full House” catapulted her to stardom at five. The show’s eight-year run was formative for her, ending when she was just fourteen. Reflecting on the show’s conclusion, Sweetin described it as a significant loss. She felt as though she was parting with a cherished family.

She turned to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism, a struggle she later shared candidly in 2016. Her journey to sobriety began in 2011, a pivotal moment that also saw her become a certified drug and alcohol counselor. Her experience with addiction has informed her approach to parenting and her desire to guide others.

As a mother of two daughters, Zoie and Beatrix, Sweetin is acutely aware of the pressures children face growing up in the public eye, especially with the advent of social media. She strives to protect her daughters from these pressures by fostering open dialogue and encouraging positive online behavior.

Sweetin is a strong advocate for kindness, particularly in the digital space. She has no tolerance for cyberbullying and actively monitors her children’s internet use, ensuring they understand the permanence of online actions.

At 42, Sweetin’s love for acting remains undiminished. She finds a sense of home on set and continues to pursue her passion, sharing her insights with parents of aspiring child actors.

In her memoir “UnSweetined,” Sweetin offers an unflinching look at her past struggles. She maintains transparency with her daughters, discussing the realities of addiction and the importance of making informed choices.

“I have these amazing, interesting, individual, strong, fierce little women. … I hope that I am raising little social justice warriors [who] will do good in the world,” she shared.

Justine Bateman: Aging with Confidence and Embracing Family

Like Sweetin, Justine Bateman found early success as a young actor. Her career took off at 16 with her role as Mallory Keaton on “Family Ties,” earning critical acclaim and a place in the hearts of viewers.

Her career has since flourished, encompassing various roles in the entertainment industry. She has broadened her horizons, venturing into directing, writing, and producing.

At 58, Bateman is a proud mother of two, who has boldly faced Hollywood’s relentless focus on youth. When she was 42, she discovered the public’s fascination with her looks, especially her aging.

Bateman, however, refuses to be fazed. She confidently embraces her appearance, declaring, “I think I look rad. My face represents who I am. I like feeling that I am a different person now than when I was 20. I like looking in the mirror and seeing that evidence.”

Bateman cherishes her role as a mother and wife. Her two children, Duke and Olivia, are the center of her world. This strong family connection has been Bateman’s anchor amidst the whirlwind of Hollywood’s unpredictability.

Next, we turn to Kirk Cameron, another ’80s star who found fame as a child and has since become a devoted father.

Kirk Cameron: From Teen Heartthrob to Devoted Dad

Cameron’s journey to fame began with his natural charisma, leading to early commercial work and eventually his breakout role as Mike Seaver on “Growing Pains.” His portrayal of the lovable troublemaker resonated with audiences, catapulting him to the status of a teen icon.

Cameron’s career continued to soar in the ’80s, with his role on “Growing Pains” and appearances in films and commercials. However, at 17, a profound spiritual awakening led him to embrace Christianity. This shift influenced his career choices, steering him towards roles that reflected his faith.

He later married Chelsea Noble, his co-star from “Growing Pains.” Together, the couple adopted four children—Jack, Isabella, Anna, and Luke—before welcoming two biological children, Olivia and James. They also established Camp Firefly, offering respite to families with terminally ill children.

For Cameron, family is paramount. He speaks fondly of family gatherings, despite the logistical challenges of having his adult children spread across the country. “The adoption option, I think, is such a loving, beautiful place, and I’ve experienced the result of that choice myself,” he says.

His younger sister, Candace Cameron Bure, followed in Cameron’s footsteps into acting. She shares her brother’s Christian beliefs and is also a loving parent.

Candace Cameron Bure: Faith and Family Values

Like her brother, Bure’s early career included commercials and guest TV roles, leading to her iconic role as D.J. Tanner on “Full House” at just ten years old. The show’s success made it a television classic, and Bure’s performance left a lasting impression.

After the curtains closed on “Full House,” Bure embraced a new role as a wife and mother. Marrying Valeri Bure and raising three children, she has consistently placed family above fame.

Bure’s parenting style is characterized by love, structure, and the importance of open communication. She believes in setting clear boundaries while also offering understanding and support.

Bure’s Christian faith is the cornerstone of her family life, guiding her approach to parenting and her holiday traditions. The Bure family’s Christmas celebrations are a blend of festive joy and the spirit of giving, reflecting their deep-rooted values.

Beyond her family, Bure is committed to community service, volunteering at a local homeless shelter during the holidays. She instills in her children the importance of giving back, hoping to pass on the legacy of kindness and community involvement.

“Every family is different. And it’s important for us moms not to compare ourselves to anyone else. There is no right or wrong way. Accept your situation and find the joy in it,” she advises.

Ricky Schroder: A Father’s Pride

Ricky Schroder is another child star, born in the ’70s who became a household name in the ’80s. Schroder, who captured hearts as Ricky Stratton on “Silver Spoons,” began his acting career with the critically acclaimed film “The Champ.”

He played the role for the length of the show which ran from 1982 to 1987. Despite his success, Schroder felt like an outsider in Hollywood. He eventually stepped away from the limelight and settled in Colorado.

Married to Andrea since 1992, Schroder is a devoted father to four children: Holden, Luke, Cambrie, and Faith. Luke their second son, has taken up acting, making his film debut in 2011.

Schroder cherishes the close relationship he has with his children, especially Luke, as they bond over shared acting experiences. He supports their individual journeys and takes pride in their achievements, emphasizing a family-oriented life away from Hollywood.

Macaulay ulkin: Legacy and Love

Like Schroder’s transition from a child star to a family man, Macaulay Culkin, who experienced childhood stardom is now a devoted family man. Born in 1980, Culkin, affectionately known as “Mack,” began his acting career at four.

He graced the stage in productions like “The Nutcracker.” His early success in films like “Rocket Gibraltar” paved the way for his iconic role as Kevin McCallister in “Home Alone,” which skyrocketed him to international stardom.

In 2021, Culkin became a father to Dakota Song Culkin, named in loving memory of his late sister. The arrival of his second son further expanded his joy in fatherhood, marking a new era of personal fulfillment. This was a big change for Culkin, who had been away from the public for a while.

In December 2023, Culkin was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He attended the event with his sons and his long-time partner, Brenda Song, also a former child actor.

Soleil Moon Frye: Embracing the ‘Happy Chaos’ of Motherhood

Soleil Moon Frye also moved from the limelight to the busy life of motherhood. Frye, known for her spirited portrayal of Punky Brewster, started acting at two. Her role in “Punky Brewster” made her a beloved figure in American households. After the show, she kept busy with movies, directing, and writing.

As a mother of four—Poet, Jagger, Lyric, and Story—Frye has experienced motherhood’s joys and challenges. She talks openly about the tough parts of being a mom but also finds joy in it. She connects with other parents online, sharing stories about the messy, funny parts of parenting.

Frye wrote a book called “Happy Chaos” about her life as a mom. She says life is messy but it’s also full of happiness. Even when things get crazy, like when she went on a book tour with the whole family, she wouldn’t have it any other way.

The 1980s were a golden era for television and movies, giving rise to a generation of young actors who became icons. They brought joy to audiences worldwide and left an indelible mark on pop culture.

Looking back on their paths, we celebrate the happiness they gave us as kids and the inspiration they now provide as parents. Their lives show us that there’s a real person behind every character we loved.