Stars who stepped away from the spotlight

Hollywood has been home to many many stars.

Over the years, Hollywood has seen many stars come and go from the industry, some often by their own will and some just happened to fade away and couldn’t keep up with the evolving era.

Here are some stars who once played a big part in the industry but have now taken a step back.

Ian Somerhalder

Best known for his role as Damon Salvatore in CW's The Vampire Diaries from 2009 to 2017, Ian Somerhalder parted ways with acting in Hollywood.

However, he has taken on some behind the scenes roles recently, with fans last seeing their favourite star in 2019 playing Luther Swan in Netflix's V-Wars.

Ian has starred in multiple productions prior to his exit from the industry like Lost, Smallville, The Rules of Attraction and more. 

While talking to People in October 2024, the 46-year-old actor reflected on his career, saying, "I think it's in the rearview mirror."

Now, alongside his wife Nikki Reed, Ian has taken on a much healthier lifestyle, focusing on farming, wellness and environmental causes.

The duo also co-founded The Absorption Company, a tech based supplement brand. 

Ellen DeGeneres

After 19 seasons, Ellen DeGeneres daytime show The Ellen DeGeneres Show came to its end in 2022 after several reports of a toxic work environment which led to an internal company investigation, leadership changes as well as immense backlash online.

In September 2024, she returned to the spotlight for the last time with her final Netflix stand-up, For Your Approval.

Just before its release, Ellen announced that she will be saying goodbye to the industry permanently. 

Bridgit Mendler

Back in 2018, Bridgit Medler, known for her iconic role as Teddy Dunan on Disney’s Good Luck Charlie, traded fame for academic success, earning a masters and a PhD from MIT before pursuing Harvard Law school.

Adding to the massive pool of impressive achievements, the 32-year-old former actress and entrepreneur launched Northwood Space in 2023, becoming the CEO of her own start-up which focuses on developing ground satellite stations for faster space communication.