6 Beloved Celebrities of the 1970s: Where Are They Now? Catch Up With Your Faves!
The 1970s were a golden era for pop culture, filled with unforgettable faces and iconic moments.
Driving to the cinemas or tuning in to your favorite TV shows, you were likely enchanted by the talents of countless celebrities who defined that vibrant decade.
From musicians who revolutionized the industry to movie stars who brought memorable characters to life, the 70s were rich with entertainment legends.
You may find yourself wondering what happened to those stars who once dominated the airwaves, screens, and stages. This article takes you on a journey to revisit six beloved celebrities of the 1970s and discover where they are now. Whether they continued to shine in the limelight or took a step back, each has a fascinating story that showcases their enduring appeal and influence.
1) John Travolta
You probably know John Travolta from his big roles in the 1970s and ’80s.
One of his first big breaks was on TV in “Welcome Back, Kotter,” where he played Vinnie Barbarino.
His charm and talent quickly made him a fan favorite.
In 1977, Travolta wowed audiences in “Saturday Night Fever.” His dance moves became iconic, and the movie made him a household name.
Just a year later, he starred as Danny Zuko in “Grease,” one of the most beloved musicals of all time.
You can probably still sing along to “You’re the One That I Want.”
During the 1980s, Travolta continued to have success with films like “Urban Cowboy” and “Blow Out.” While the late 1980s saw a bit of a slump in his career, he never really disappeared from the spotlight.
A memorable moment in his personal life was his dance with Princess Diana at a White House event in 1985.
The photos from that night show just how enchanting and memorable that moment was.
From the bustling ’70s to the transformative ’80s, John Travolta’s impact on pop culture is undeniable.
2) Farrah Fawcett
You probably remember Farrah Fawcett for her role on “Charlie’s Angels” in the late 1970s.
Her character, Jill Munroe, turned her into an instant icon.
Fawcett’s famous poster from that era, featuring her in a red swimsuit, became a cultural phenomenon.
Farrah’s career kicked off in the 1960s.
She appeared in commercials and TV guest spots before landing her big role on “Charlie’s Angels.” The show was an instant hit, and she became a household name.
In the 1980s, Farrah took on more challenging roles.
She starred in the movie “Extremities,” which earned her critical acclaim.
The film, released in 1986, dealt with intense themes of revenge and survival.
Farrah Fawcett’s impact wasn’t just on screen.
She set beauty trends with her famous feathered hairstyle.
Her look was widely imitated and became a signature style of the 1970s.
Although Farrah faced personal struggles, including her battle with cancer diagnosed in 2006, her legacy remains strong.
She fought bravely until her passing in 2009.
Farrah Fawcett remains a beloved figure from the 1970s, remembered for her talent and iconic style.
3) David Bowie
You remember David Bowie as the iconic musician who reshaped rock and pop in the 1970s.
Known for his unique style and alter egos like Ziggy Stardust, he left a lasting impact on the music world.
In the early ’70s, Bowie’s album “The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars” catapulted him to stardom.
His androgynous style and theatrical performances captured everyone’s attention.
By the mid-1970s, Bowie shifted gears.
He moved to the United States and released the hit album “Young Americans.” With its soulful sound, it showcased his ability to reinvent himself, embracing a more mainstream pop style.
Later in the decade, Bowie moved to Berlin.
There, he created the famous “Berlin Trilogy” with albums like “Heroes.” This period marked a more experimental phase in music, blending electronic and ambient styles.
Entering the 1980s, Bowie continued to evolve.
His album “Let’s Dance” in 1983 became a massive success.
Featuring hits like the title track and “China Girl,” it showed his knack for staying relevant and influential across different music scenes.
For many, David Bowie remains a symbol of creativity and transformation.
His work from the ’60s, ’70s, and ’80s continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans alike.
4) Goldie Hawn
You might remember Goldie Hawn for her bright smile and quirky personality.
She first caught everyone’s eye on the NBC comedy show, Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, which aired from 1968 to 1970.
This show helped her become a household name back in the 1960s.
After her big break, she won a Golden Globe and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in the 1969 film, Cactus Flower.
Her charm and talent quickly propelled her to stardom.
In the 1970s, Goldie continued to shine in movies.
She starred in There’s a Girl in My Soup in 1970 and Butterflies Are Free in 1972.
These roles highlighted her comedic skills and solidified her status in Hollywood.
The 1980s kept her busy with many well-known movies like Private Benjamin, where she played the lead role.
This film was a significant hit and even earned her another Academy Award nomination.
Her career was not just about acting.
Goldie showcased her dancing talents as well.
Before her rise to fame, she was a go-go dancer.
It’s amazing to see how far she has come since then.
5) Cher
Cher started making waves in the 1960s as part of the duo Sonny & Cher.
Their hit song “I Got You Babe” became a classic.
You might remember their popular TV show, “The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour,” which ran in the early 1970s.
When Sonny and Cher split, Cher didn’t miss a beat.
She launched a solo career and had success with hits like “Believe” and “If I Could Turn Back Time.” She also became known for her unique and bold fashion choices.
In the 1980s, Cher took Hollywood by storm.
She starred in several successful films, including “Mask” and “Moonstruck,” for which she won an Academy Award.
Her acting skills were undeniable, showing everyone she wasn’t just a singer.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Cher was also known for her television specials and guest appearances on popular shows.
Her influence on music and pop culture remains strong, maintaining her status as a true icon through the decades.
6) Richard Pryor
Richard Pryor was one of the most influential comedians of the 1970s.
You might remember his albums like “Richard Pryor” and “Craps (After Hours)” from the early ’70s.
These albums captured Pryor during a big change in his career.
He shifted from family-friendly jokes to more serious, politically aware comedy.
Pryor’s “Live At The Comedy Store” from 1973 is legendary.
It shows his transformation as a comic who wasn’t afraid to tackle tough subjects through humor.
By the 1980s, he was a household name with specials like “Live on the Sunset Strip.”
His success didn’t come easy.
Pryor had a difficult life, with struggles that fueled much of his raw and honest comedy.
His personal battles with addiction and tough times made his performances profoundly real and relatable.
In the 1980s, Pryor continued to rise.
He starred in movies like “Stir Crazy” with Gene Wilder, which was a huge hit.
Even with his personal challenges, he kept making people laugh and think.
Today, Pryor’s work is still celebrated.
His influence is seen in many comedians who followed in his footsteps, bringing real-life issues to the stage with humor and heart.
His legacy in comedy remains unmatched.
Life After the Spotlight
Many beloved celebrities of the 1970s transitioned to rewarding personal ventures, dedicated themselves to philanthropic efforts, and stayed connected to their fans through public appearances.
Personal Ventures
After leaving the limelight, several stars pursued new careers or hobbies. Pam Grier, known for her bold roles in ’70s blaxploitation movies, expanded her acting resume with roles in films like Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey.
She also became an advocate for stronger roles for women in Hollywood.
Meanwhile, Burt Reynolds stayed active in the industry, racking up nearly 200 TV and film credits.
Outside of acting, he was involved in theater and taught acting classes.
He even wrote a memoir sharing insights into his storied career and personal life.
Philanthropic Efforts
Celebrities also dedicated their time to charitable causes. John, from General Hospital, was deeply involved in raising awareness about AIDS.
You might remember his early roles, but his contributions to health charities are equally important.
Jack Nicholson, famous for his performance in Chinatown, supported various causes, including arts and education.
He’s been a passionate advocate for supporting young artists and has donated time and resources to ensure the arts thrive.
ABBA’s members also used their fame for good.
For example, Björn Ulvaeus focused on environmental issues, becoming a strong voice against climate change.
His efforts have included speaking engagements and funding sustainability projects.
Public Appearances
Even though many stars stepped away from daily media attention, they still made notable public appearances. Jodie Foster, who received her first on-screen kiss from John in Tom Sawyer, transitioned successfully from acting to directing and making guest appearances at film festivals and award ceremonies.
Anni-Frid Lyngstad of ABBA, although largely out of the music scene, occasionally appears at events celebrating the band’s legacy.
Whether attending openings of ABBA museums or special fan events, she keeps the spirit of ABBA alive for old and new fans alike.
Pam Grier, besides acting, also appears at conventions and retrospectives, talking about her impact on ’70s cinema and her experiences.
Her presence at these events highlights the lasting influence of her work.
Behind The Camera
Many stars from the 1970s not only shined in front of the camera but also took pivotal roles behind it.
Some transitioned smoothly into directing and producing, while others made a mark as writers and storytellers.
Directing and Producing
Burt Reynolds, a heart-throb in the ’70s, continued his love for the film industry by moving behind the camera.
Reynolds directed several movies, including Sharky’s Machine (1981).
His directing style emphasized action and humor, much like his on-screen persona.
Goldie Hawn, famous for her roles on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, also took to directing and producing.
She co-produced the film Private Benjamin (1980), a huge box office hit and comedy classic.
This film showcased her knack for identifying timeless humor and strong characters.
Writing and Storytelling
John Amos, best known for his role in Good Times, also explored his talent in writing.
He penned an episode for The Mary Tyler Moore Show in the ’70s.
His writing often reflected his experiences and offered insights into the African American experience, a theme present in much of his work.
Pam Grier, who became iconic through ’70s blaxploitation films, authored her autobiography in 2010.
In it, she shared personal stories from her groundbreaking career, providing a candid look at her journey.
Her storytelling extends beyond books, as she has also crafted compelling characters on screen.
These celebrities not only captivated audiences with their performances but also enriched the industry with their diverse talents behind the scenes.