Future Meets Past: Where Are These Child Stars Now?

© colesprouse / Instagram & Disney
Child stars, we wanted to be them so badly, but we grew up together with them instead. While we are clearly aware of what we ourselves are doing, nostalgia will definitely knock on the door at least once in your life. And when that day comes, you will randomly wonder: “Hey, what happened to that guy who played on Wizards of Waverly Place? What about the girl from Hannah Montana?” And, exactly! Where are these child stars now? Well, we have the answer for you!
Child Stars: Then And Now
Here is what some of your favorite child stars look like nowadays:
Hannah Montana – Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus is an American singer, songwriter, and actress who rose to fame as a child star. She became a household name for her role as Miley Stewart/Hannah Montana in the Disney Channel television series “Hannah Montana.” The show premiered in 2006 and followed the life of a teenage girl living a double life as a pop star. During her time on “Hannah Montana,” Miley also embarked on a music career. She released several albums featuring songs from the show, which became highly successful, contributing to her status as a teen idol.

Miley has also undergone significant personal changes in recent years, embracing a more authentic and free-spirited persona. She’s known for her advocacy of LGBTQ+ rights, gender fluidity, and social justice causes. While primarily known for her music, Miley has continued to act in various projects. She appeared in the Netflix series “Black Mirror” and starred in the Woody Allen film “Crisis in Six Scenes” in 2016.
Lindsay Lohan
Lindsay Lohan is another well-known child star who made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She began her career as a child model and actress in commercials and soap operas. She gained recognition for her role in the Disney remake of “The Parent Trap” in 1998, where she played dual roles as twins. However, Lindsay Lohan’s breakout role as a teenager came in the hit teen comedy film “Mean Girls.” Her performance as Cady Heron earned her widespread acclaim and established her as a leading young actress.

Lindsay Lohan faced several personal and legal challenges in the mid-2000s, including issues with substance abuse and multiple arrests. These challenges had a significant impact on her career. However, she has maintained a lower profile in recent years, focusing on her well-being and personal life. She is currently married and has recently welcomed a baby to the family.
Zendaya
Zendaya is a talented actress, singer, and fashion model who gained fame as a child star and has continued to have a successful career. Her career started on the Disney Channel series “Shake It Up,” where she played the role of Rocky Blue. This role marked her first major break in the entertainment industry.

Zendaya transitioned to more mature and critically acclaimed roles in television and film. Notable projects include her role as Rue Bennett in the HBO series “Euphoria,” which premiered in 2019 and earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series. She has also ventured into the film industry with roles in movies such as “Spider-Man: Homecoming” (2017), “Spider-Man: Far From Home” (2019), and “Dune” (2021).
Hilary Duff
Hilary Duff is an American actress, singer, songwriter, and businesswoman who gained fame as a child star and is still working on her career growth. The child star rose to prominence as the titular character in the Disney Channel series “Lizzie McGuire.” The show follows the life of a teenage girl dealing with the ups and downs of adolescence. During her time on “Lizzie McGuire,” Duff also launched a successful music career. She released several albums, including “Metamorphosis” (2003) and “Hilary Duff” (2004), which included hit singles like “So Yesterday” and “Come Clean.”

She later continued with more mature roles in acting. Notable film appearances include “A Cinderella Story” (2004), “Cheaper by the Dozen” (2003), and “Material Girls” (2006). She also starred in the TV Land series “Younger,” which premiered in 2015 and received critical acclaim. Duff played the character Kelsey Peters, and the show ran for several seasons. Hilary Duff became a mother and has been open about her experiences balancing her career with motherhood. She has been involved in philanthropic efforts and has used her platform to advocate for various causes.
Which child stars had the best glow-ups on the list? Let us know who your favorite actor was while growing up in the comments below!