Actresses Who Pursued Careers in Other Fields

Many talented actresses have successfully transitioned from the silver screen to prominent roles in other professional industries. These women have leveraged their fame and resources to make significant impacts in fields such as technology and diplomacy and business. While some have left acting entirely, others continue to balance their creative work with their new ventures. This article explores fifty notable performers who built successful careers beyond the world of entertainment.

Hedy Lamarr

Hedy Lamarr was a prominent screen star during the Golden Age of Hollywood known for her roles in films like ‘Samson and Delilah’. She was also a brilliant inventor who developed a frequency hopping system during World War II. Her technological breakthrough provided the foundation for modern wireless communication including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Lamarr was eventually honored for her scientific achievements decades after her career in cinema ended.

Shirley Temple

Shirley Temple became a massive child star in the 1930s with her roles in films like ‘Bright Eyes’. She eventually moved away from Hollywood to pursue a prestigious career in diplomacy and international relations. Temple served as the United States Ambassador to Ghana and later held the same position in Czechoslovakia. Her work in the foreign service earned her significant respect as a dedicated public servant.

Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn is celebrated for her iconic performances in classics such as ‘Roman Holiday’. In her later years she dedicated her life to humanitarian work as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. She traveled extensively to support children in impoverished nations and raised awareness for global health initiatives. Her legacy as a philanthropist is considered as significant as her legendary film career.

Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly was a leading lady in Hollywood who starred in acclaimed films like ‘High Noon’ and ‘Rear Window’. She retired from acting at the peak of her fame to become the Princess of Monaco after marrying Prince Rainier III. As a royal she focused her efforts on supporting the arts and various charitable organizations within her new home. She remained a symbol of elegance and dedication to her principality until her passing.

Meghan Markle

Meghan Markle gained international recognition for her role as Rachel Zane on the legal drama ‘Suits’. She left the entertainment industry after marrying Prince Harry and becoming the Duchess of Sussex. Markle has since transitioned into the fields of philanthropy and media production through her various charitable foundations. She continues to advocate for social justice and gender equality through global initiatives.

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba rose to fame in the early two thousands with her leading role in the series ‘Dark Angel’. She successfully pivoted to the business world by co-founding The Honest Company which focuses on eco-friendly consumer goods. The company grew into a multi-billion dollar enterprise and eventually went public on the stock market. Alba has balanced her business leadership with occasional acting roles and advocacy for environmental health.

Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow won an Academy Award for her performance in the film ‘Shakespeare in Love’. She eventually shifted her primary focus to the lifestyle and wellness industry by launching Goop. What began as a newsletter evolved into a massive brand encompassing e-commerce and podcasts and health products. Paltrow is now recognized as a major figure in the global wellness market.

Mary-Kate Olsen

Mary-Kate Olsen began her career as a child star sharing a role on the sitcom ‘Full House’. She eventually retired from acting to build a highly respected career in the high fashion industry. Alongside her sister she founded the luxury fashion house The Row which has won numerous industry awards. She is now considered a serious and influential figure in the world of international design.

Ashley Olsen

Ashley Olsen also gained fame on ‘Full House’ before transitioning into a full-time career in fashion. She stepped away from the screen to focus on the business and creative direction of multiple clothing brands. Her work with The Row and Elizabeth and James helped her establish a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship. She remains a prominent leader in the fashion world while staying out of the Hollywood spotlight.

Cameron Diaz

Cameron Diaz was one of the highest-paid actresses in the world after starring in hits like ‘The Mask’. She took a long hiatus from acting to explore careers as an author and a business owner. Diaz wrote two health-focused books and launched a successful organic wine brand called Avaline. She has frequently discussed her preference for a more private life focused on wellness and entrepreneurship.

Jennifer Garner

Jennifer Garner became a household name for her athletic and dramatic performance in ‘Alias’. She leveraged her interest in nutrition to co-found Once Upon a Farm which produces organic baby food. The company has grown significantly and is now available in major retailers across the United States. Garner remains active in the company operations while also continuing her successful acting career.

Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah Jessica Parker is best known for her portrayal of Carrie Bradshaw in the series ‘Sex and the City’. She used her fashion influence to launch her own line of footwear and accessories known as the SJP Collection. Parker also ventured into the wine industry and serves as a creative director for a major vineyard. Her business acumen has allowed her to build a diverse portfolio beyond her television work.

Elizabeth Taylor

Elizabeth Taylor was a legendary actress who starred in major productions such as ‘Cleopatra’. She became one of the first major celebrities to transition into the field of global health activism. Taylor founded the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and raised millions of dollars for research and patient care. Her tireless advocacy during the height of the epidemic changed public perception and policy regarding the disease.

Jamie Lee Curtis

Jamie Lee Curtis established herself as a scream queen in ‘Halloween’ before proving her versatility in many other genres. She expanded her career into the literary world by becoming a bestselling author of children’s books. Her stories often focus on themes of identity and self-esteem for young readers. Curtis is also an advocate for various health charities and has patented several inventions for parents.

Geena Davis

Geena Davis won an Oscar for her work in ‘The Accidental Tourist’ and starred in the classic ‘Thelma and Louise’. She moved into the field of research and social advocacy by founding the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media. The organization works to increase the representation of female characters in children’s entertainment. Her data-driven approach has influenced major studios to rethink how they depict gender on screen.

Danica McKellar

Danica McKellar was a young star on the popular television series ‘The Wonder Years’. She later pursued a career in mathematics and graduated with honors from UCLA. McKellar has written several bestselling books designed to make math accessible and engaging for young girls. She continues to advocate for STEM education while appearing in various television films.

Mayim Bialik

Mayim Bialik gained early fame on the show ‘Blossom’ and later starred in ‘The Big Bang Theory’. During a break from acting she earned a PhD in neuroscience from UCLA with a focus on obsessive-compulsive disorder. She has written books about the science of development and remains an active voice in the scientific community. Bialik balances her television hosting duties with her work as a science communicator.

Victoria Principal

Victoria Principal is widely remembered for her long running role as Pamela Barnes Ewing on ‘Dallas’. She eventually stepped away from the spotlight to build a massive skincare empire called Principal Secret. Her business ventures expanded into authorship with several books focused on health and beauty. Principal became one of the most successful female entrepreneurs in the beauty industry during the late twentieth century.

Phoebe Cates

Phoebe Cates was a major teen star in the eighties with roles in ‘Fast Times at Ridgemont High’. She decided to retire from acting to focus on her family and a new career in retail. Cates opened a boutique called Blue Tree on the Upper East Side of New York City. The shop features a curated selection of gifts and clothing and unique home goods.

Mara Wilson

Mara Wilson was a beloved child actress known for her performances in ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ and ‘Matilda’. She chose to leave professional acting behind to pursue a career as a writer and storyteller. Wilson has published a memoir and frequently contributes essays to major publications. She also works as a voice actress and remains active in the New York literary scene.

Nikki Blonsky

Nikki Blonsky earned critical acclaim for her breakout role in the musical film ‘Hairspray’. Between acting projects she decided to pursue a stable career in the beauty industry. She earned her license as a cosmetologist and began working as a hair stylist in New York. Blonsky has been open about the importance of having a practical skill outside of the unpredictable entertainment business.

Brigitte Bardot

Brigitte Bardot was a global sex symbol and actress known for films like ‘And God Created Woman’. She retired from the screen in the early seventies to dedicate her life entirely to animal rights. She established the Foundation Brigitte Bardot to protect animals from cruelty and neglect worldwide. Bardot is now considered one of the most influential animal welfare activists in history.

Gina Lollobrigida

Gina Lollobrigida was a major European film star who appeared in international hits like ‘Trapeze’. When her acting career slowed down she successfully transitioned into the field of photojournalism. She traveled the world and photographed high-profile figures including world leaders and celebrities. Lollobrigida also became an accomplished sculptor and even pursued a career in politics.

Glenda Jackson

Glenda Jackson was a highly decorated actress who won two Academy Awards during her time in Hollywood. She famously gave up her acting career to enter the world of British politics in the early nineties. Jackson served as a Member of Parliament for over twenty years and held a junior ministerial position. She eventually returned to the stage in her later years after a long and distinguished political career.

Cynthia Nixon

Cynthia Nixon gained fame for her role as Miranda Hobbes on the hit series ‘Sex and the City’. She eventually moved into the political arena and ran for the office of Governor of New York. Nixon has been a vocal advocate for public education funding and social justice reform. She remains active in both the arts and political activism within her home state.

Stacey Dash

Stacey Dash became a pop culture icon for her role as Dionne in the comedy film ‘Clueless’. She later shifted her focus to political commentary and worked as a contributor for a major news network. Dash even filed to run for a seat in Congress though she later withdrew from the race. She continues to share her views on social and political issues through various media platforms.

Maria Shriver

Maria Shriver appeared in several film projects including ‘Last Action Hero’ before focusing on journalism. She became a prominent news anchor and correspondent for major networks like NBC. Shriver also served as the First Lady of California where she spearheaded various social initiatives and the California Museum. She remains a prolific author and advocate for Alzheimer’s research and women’s health.

Dolores Hart

Dolores Hart was a rising star in Hollywood who appeared opposite Elvis Presley in the movie ‘Loving You’. She shocked the industry when she decided to leave her acting career behind to become a Benedictine nun. Hart eventually rose to the position of Prioress at her abbey in Connecticut. She continues to be a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and votes for the Oscars every year.

Doris Day

Doris Day was a legendary actress and singer who starred in ‘The Man Who Knew Too Much’ and ‘Pillow Talk’. After retiring from the screen she focused her energy on the welfare of animals. She founded the Doris Day Animal Foundation and worked to end animal testing and improve shelter conditions. Her work in animal advocacy continued until the end of her life.

Tippi Hedren

Tippi Hedren is famous for her leading roles in Alfred Hitchcock films such as ‘The Birds’. She became a dedicated conservationist after working with big cats during a film production. Hedren founded the Shambala Preserve to provide a sanctuary for exotic animals that were born in captivity. She has spent decades advocating for laws to ban the private ownership of large felines.

Carrie Fisher

Carrie Fisher became an international icon for her portrayal of Princess Leia in ‘Star Wars’. While she continued to act she also built a highly successful second career as a writer and script doctor. Fisher wrote several best-selling novels and memoirs including ‘Postcards from the Edge’. She was known for her wit and for secretly polishing the scripts of many major Hollywood films.

Mackenzie Phillips

Mackenzie Phillips rose to fame as a teenager on the sitcom ‘One Day at a Time’. After struggling with personal challenges she reinvented herself as a drug and alcohol counselor. She has worked in various recovery centers and uses her experience to help others overcome addiction. Phillips is also a public speaker and author who focuses on the journey of recovery.

Lark Voorhies

Lark Voorhies is best known for her role as Lisa Turtle on the hit show ‘Saved by the Bell’. She eventually transitioned away from acting to pursue her passion for writing and literature. Voorhies has self-published several books that explore themes of spirituality and personal growth. She remains a creative individual who shares her artistic work with her dedicated fans.

Lisa Whelchel

Lisa Whelchel became a television star on the long running series ‘The Facts of Life’. She later pursued a career as a public speaker and a Christian author with a focus on parenting and family life. Whelchel has written over a dozen books and frequently hosts workshops across the country. She briefly returned to the spotlight as a contestant on the reality show ‘Survivor’.

Shay Mitchell

Shay Mitchell gained massive popularity for her role on the television drama ‘Pretty Little Liars’. She successfully launched a travel and lifestyle brand called Béis which produces luggage and accessories. Mitchell is also active in the digital space as a content creator and producer. Her business ventures have made her a prominent figure in the modern travel industry.

Ashley Tisdale

Ashley Tisdale became a star through the ‘High School Musical’ franchise and various television series. She eventually expanded into the wellness industry by founding a brand called Being Frenshe. Tisdale also launched an interior design firm and has shared her passion for home renovation on social media. She continues to balance her work in front of the camera with her various business enterprises.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks began her career as a model and an actress in projects like ‘Coyote Ugly’. She moved into the business world by creating and producing the global franchise ‘America’s Next Top Model’. Banks also earned a certificate from Harvard Business School and launched her own beauty and ice cream brands. She is now recognized as a powerful media mogul and entrepreneur.

Iman

Iman was a pioneering supermodel who also appeared in films like ‘Star Trek VI The Undiscovered Country’. She successfully launched Iman Cosmetics which was one of the first major brands to focus on diverse skin tones. Her business revolutionized the beauty industry and became a massive commercial success. Iman is also a dedicated philanthropist who works with various international aid organizations.

Kathy Ireland

Kathy Ireland appeared in several films and television shows during the eighties and nineties. She transformed her modeling fame into a business empire known as Kathy Ireland Worldwide. Her company designs and markets thousands of products ranging from home furniture to jewelry. Ireland is now considered one of the wealthiest and most successful female entrepreneurs in the world.

Miranda Kerr

Miranda Kerr is a world-renowned model who has also appeared in various television roles. She founded Kora Organics which is a certified organic skincare brand sold in dozens of countries. Kerr serves as the CEO and is heavily involved in the development and marketing of her products. She has successfully transitioned from being a face for other brands to a leader of her own corporation.

Cindy Crawford

Cindy Crawford was one of the most famous supermodels and actresses of the nineties. She built a significant career in the business world with her skincare line called Meaningful Beauty. Crawford also launched a furniture collection that is sold in major home decor retailers. She remains a powerful figure in the fashion and business industries while mentoring the next generation of talent.

Elizabeth Hurley

Elizabeth Hurley gained international fame as an actress in films like ‘Austin Powers International Man of Mystery’. She eventually launched her own line of swimwear called Elizabeth Hurley Beach. In addition to her business she has spent decades as a global ambassador for breast cancer awareness campaigns. Hurley continues to manage her fashion brand while appearing in various television projects.

Jane Fonda

Jane Fonda is an Academy Award winning actress who has been a major figure in Hollywood for decades. She famously created a fitness empire in the eighties with her workout videos and books. Fonda is also a lifelong political activist who focuses on environmental issues and social justice. Her ability to reinvent herself across multiple fields has made her a cultural icon.

Rose McGowan

Rose McGowan became a star through films like ‘Scream’ and the television series ‘Charmed’. She eventually pivoted to a career in writing and activism and became a leading voice in social movements. McGowan published a memoir and directed a short film that received critical acclaim. She continues to use her platform to advocate for systemic change within the entertainment industry and beyond.

Marlee Matlin

Marlee Matlin won an Oscar for her debut performance in ‘Children of a Lesser God’. She has used her platform to become a leading advocate for the deaf and hard of hearing community. Matlin works with various organizations to improve accessibility in media and education. She also serves as a public speaker and has written several books about her life and career.

Jennifer Grey

Jennifer Grey became a permanent part of pop culture history after starring in ‘Dirty Dancing’. She later expanded her career into authorship by writing a successful memoir about her life and experiences in Hollywood. Grey has also stayed active in the dance world by appearing on and winning competitive dance shows. She continues to work as an actress while sharing her personal journey through literature.

Ali MacGraw

Ali MacGraw was a major star in the seventies who earned an Oscar nomination for ‘Love Story’. She eventually moved away from acting to focus on her interests in wellness and animal welfare. MacGraw became a popular yoga instructor and released an influential yoga video in the nineties. She also advocates for the protection of wildlife and supports various environmental causes.

Emma Watson

Emma Watson rose to global fame as Hermione Granger in the ‘Harry Potter’ film series. She has used her influence to become a leading advocate for gender equality and sustainable fashion. Watson serves as a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador and launched the HeForShe campaign to engage men in the fight for women’s rights. She balances her continued acting career with her dedicated work in international activism.

Angelina Jolie

Angelina Jolie is one of the most famous actresses in the world and has starred in dozens of major films. She has dedicated a significant portion of her life to humanitarian work and served as a Special Envoy for the UN. Jolie has visited numerous refugee camps and worked on international policy to protect vulnerable populations. She also pursues a career as a director and producer focused on socially relevant stories.

Ashley Judd

Ashley Judd is a successful actress known for her roles in thrillers like ‘Double Jeopardy’. She has transitioned into a career as a global health advocate and political activist. Judd has traveled the world to work with organizations focused on poverty and social justice and human rights. She remains a prominent voice in several major social movements and continues to speak at international forums.

Share your favorite examples of these career transitions in the comments.