10 TV Stars From the ’80s You Had a Crush On—Where Are They Now?

10 TV Stars From the ’80s You Had a Crush On—Where Are They Now?

Remember those TV stars who made your heart skip a beat every time they appeared on screen in the 1980s? Those were the days of big hair, neon colors, and actors who became the wallpaper of teenage bedrooms across America. We’ve tracked down ten of those crush-worthy celebrities to find out what happened after their glory days and what they’re up to now.

1. Courteney Cox: From ‘Family Ties’ to ‘Friends’ and Beyond

The fresh-faced beauty who played Michael J. Fox’s girlfriend on ‘Family Ties’ transformed into one of television’s most recognizable stars. After her brief stint on the show, Cox landed the role of Monica Geller on ‘Friends,’ which catapulted her to superstardom. Following the end of ‘Friends’ in 2004, she starred in the horror franchise ‘Scream’ and led the comedy series ‘Cougar Town’ for six seasons.

Today, at 60, Cox continues to act and produce, recently appearing in the ‘Scream’ reboot and starring in the horror-comedy series ‘Shining Vale.’ Cox has also become an entrepreneur with her homecare brand Homecourt, proving she’s much more than just our favorite TV neat freak.

2. Demi Moore: The ‘General Hospital’ Ingenue Who Conquered Hollywood

Before becoming a movie megastar, Demi Moore captivated soap opera fans as investigative reporter Jackie Templeton on ‘General Hospital’ from 1982 to 1984. Her raspy voice and intense presence made her stand out even then. Moore left television behind and skyrocketed to film stardom with blockbusters like ‘Ghost,’ ‘Indecent Proposal,’ and ‘G.I. Jane.’

She made headlines not just for her acting but for breaking the $10 million salary barrier for actresses. Now 61, Moore continues to act selectively while focusing on her wellness interests and family. She recently appeared in the film ‘The Substance’ and maintains close relationships with her daughters and ex-husband Bruce Willis.

3. Rob Lowe: The Brat Pack Heartthrob Who Found Television Gold

Those piercing blue eyes and perfect jawline made Rob Lowe the ultimate teen idol after his appearances in ‘The Outsiders’ and ‘St. Elmo’s Fire.’ His role on ‘A New Kind of Family’ in 1979-1980 first introduced him to television audiences before his film career exploded. After weathering a scandal in the late ’80s, Lowe reinvented himself with a brilliant career comeback.

He found tremendous success on ‘The West Wing’ as Sam Seaboard and later starred in ‘Parks and Recreation’ and ‘9-1-1: Lone Star.’ At 60, Lowe has maintained his youthful appearance and busy career. He hosts the podcast ‘Literally! With Rob Lowe’ and continues to act while enjoying life as a proud dad to two grown sons.

4. Billy Campbell: ‘Dynasty’s’ Handsome Stranger to Cult Favorite

With his tall stature and gentle demeanor, Billy Campbell first stole hearts as Luke Fuller on ‘Dynasty’ in the mid-80s. His character’s tragic death in the infamous Moldavian massacre episode left fans heartbroken. Campbell later achieved cult status as the title character in ‘The Rocketeer’ and gained critical acclaim for his role as Rick Sammler in the beloved but short-lived drama ‘Once and Again.’

His portrayal of politician Darren Richmond in ‘The Killing’ showcased his dramatic range. Now 65, Campbell has embraced character roles in series like ‘Cardinal’ and ‘Helix.’ The avid sailor spends much of his free time on tall ships, occasionally taking breaks from Hollywood to work as crew on voyages around the world.

5. Malcolm-Jamal Warner: From Theo Huxtable to Award-Winning Actor

As the only son of Cliff and Clair Huxtable on The Cosby Show, Malcolm-Jamal Warner grew up before our eyes. His portrayal of Theo, dealing with dyslexia and teenage dilemmas, made him relatable to millions of viewers during the show’s 1984–1992 run. Unlike many child stars, Warner successfully transitioned to adult roles. He starred in Malcolm & Eddie, directed television episodes, and performed spoken word poetry.

Warner experienced a career renaissance, earning a Grammy Award for traditional R&B performance and taking on acclaimed roles in series like The Resident, Suits, and American Crime Story. He was also a devoted father and talented bass player who performed with his band Miles Long. Malcolm-Jamal Warner passed away at the age of 54, leaving behind a legacy of versatility, resilience, and artistic excellence that transcended generations.

6. David Hasselhoff: The Beachside Hero Who Became a Global Phenomenon

The man, the myth, the legend! David Hasselhoff sprinted into our hearts as lifeguard Mitch Buchannon on ‘Baywatch’ after first gaining fame as Michael Knight on ‘Knight Rider.’ His red swim trunks and slow-motion beach runs became iconic ’80s and ’90s television moments. ‘The Hoff’ transcended typical stardom to become a cultural phenomenon, especially in Germany where his music career flourished.

He famously performed at the Berlin Wall in 1989, creating a historical moment that cemented his international legacy. At 72, Hasselhoff continues to embrace his unique celebrity status with self-aware cameos in films like ‘Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.’ He recently appeared in ‘Young Sheldon’ and continues to perform music while being a devoted father to his two daughters.

7. Kirstie Alley: The ‘Cheers’ Barmaid Who Lived Life on Her Own Terms

When Kirstie Alley replaced Shelley Long as the female lead on ‘Cheers’ in 1987, viewers quickly fell for her portrayal of the strong-willed Rebecca Howe. Her comedic timing and chemistry with Ted Danson earned her both an Emmy and a Golden Globe. After ‘Cheers,’ Alley starred in the hit film ‘Look Who’s Talking’ and its sequels.

She later headlined her own sitcom ‘Veronica’s Closet’ and became known for her candid discussions about weight struggles, eventually becoming a Jenny Craig spokesperson. Sadly, Alley passed away in December 2022 at age 71 after a brief battle with colon cancer. Her legacy lives on through her memorable performances and the fearless way she approached both her career and personal challenges.

8. Bonnie Langford: The British Stage Star Who Conquered Television

Though less known to American audiences, British viewers fell hard for Bonnie Langford’s portrayal of Mel Bush, companion to the Sixth and Seventh Doctors in ‘Doctor Who’ from 1986 to 1987. Her trademark red curls and energetic presence made her a standout in the long-running sci-fi series. Langford was already famous in the UK as a child performer before her television breakthrough.

After ‘Doctor Who,’ she continued her successful stage career in West End productions like ‘Chicago’ and ‘Cats,’ showcasing her exceptional dancing and singing abilities. Now 60, Langford recently enjoyed a five-year run on the popular British soap ‘EastEnders’ as Carmel Kazemi. She continues to perform in theater and television while maintaining her status as a beloved British entertainment icon.

9. Heather Locklear: Television’s Blonde Bombshell from ‘Dynasty’ to ‘Melrose Place’

The quintessential ’80s TV vixen, Heather Locklear first captured attention as Sammy Jo Carrington on ‘Dynasty,’ where her character evolved from conniving troublemaker to sympathetic heroine. Her stunning looks and surprising acting range made her a standout in an already glamorous cast. Locklear’s career reached new heights when producer Aaron Spelling cast her as Amanda Woodward on ‘Melrose Place,’ a role that earned her four consecutive Golden Globe nominations.

She continued her television success with ‘Spin City’ opposite Michael J. Fox and later Charlie Sheen. Now 62, Locklear has taken a step back from the spotlight after facing personal and health challenges. She occasionally appears in television movies and focuses on her sobriety journey and being a mother to her daughter Ava.

10. Phoebe Cates: The ‘Fast Times’ Beauty Who Left Hollywood Behind

Though best known for her unforgettable pool scene in ‘Fast Times at Ridgemont High,’ Phoebe Cates also captured TV viewers’ hearts in the 1983 miniseries ‘Lace’ and its sequel. Her exotic beauty and natural acting ability made her one of the most sought-after young actresses of the decade. Cates starred in several iconic ’80s films including ‘Gremlins’ and ‘Drop Dead Fred.’

However, in the mid-1990s, she made the surprising decision to retire from acting to focus on raising her children with actor Kevin Kline, whom she married in 1989. At 61, Cates has largely remained out of the spotlight, making rare public appearances. She opened a boutique called Blue Tree in New York City in 2005, focusing on her business and family rather than returning to Hollywood.