Known to many as John-Boy from “The Waltons,” Richard Thomas has built up an impressive acting record by his 20th birthday. One of his first major film roles was in “Winning,” where he played alongside Paul Newman.
After leaving “The Waltons,” Richard experienced a successful theater career, which included “Fifth of July” and “Richard II.” In 2009-2010, Thomas appeared in the Broadway play “Race” by David Mamet. He acted alongside James Spader, Kerry Washington, and David Alan Grier.
Jack Wild
Jack Wild made his acting debut as Dodger in the musical "Oliver!" in England in 1968 and went into the 70s as a full-fledged star. He was 16 at the time and was already nominated for an Oscar for that role. His stature in the industry at the time sent him to the US for a role in the kids' show "H.R. Pufnstuf" — a role which paid him $1 million!
Success took its toll on Wild, who smoked and drank regularly. At 24 years old, the problem became so severe he could no longer act. After an extensive rehab process, he regained enough strength for short on-screen performances. He passed away in 2006 after battling aggressive cancer.
Mark Lester
Mark Lester was also made a star at a very young age thanks to the musical film "Oliver!". He was quickly showered with other acting suggestions, including in European cinema, making him an international star.
Lester had a tough time dealing with his success. At 18 years old, he became reckless with his money and descended into substance abuse. A year later, he decided to retire from acting. He trained in martial arts and became a certified osteopath. Most of Lester's acting credits are grouped in the 70s, although he has a couple of on-screen blinks in the late 2000s.
Mark Hamill
Forever Luke Skywalker, Mark Hamill actually started his way as a voice actor. He later landed roles in shows such as "The Texas Wheelers" and "General Hospital" in the 1970s, which gained him great popularity even before landing the role of Luke.
Luke won Hamill two Saturn Awards and an honorable place in American cultural history. He keeps acting to this day and has several newly announced acting projects to look forward to.
Vincent Van Patten
Son of the actor Dick Van Patten, Vincent was encouraged to take the spotlight at a young age, and he appeared in many commercials as a child. He soon transitioned into bigger roles, starring in numerous films and TV shows, the first of which was "Bonanza."
But Vincent is more than just an actor. He is also a talented tennis player with a well-established career and titles, as well as a successful poker player. So even though he doesn't act anymore, he has a plethora of other ways to make a living.