8 70s Movie Stars Who Disappeared from the Spotlight

The 1970s introduced many actors who left a lasting mark on the film industry. Some became huge stars, shaping the decade’s pop culture. But not all stayed in the limelight. Here’s a look at some of those memorable stars who quietly stepped back from Hollywood over time.

1. Linda Blair

Linda Blair’s role as the possessed girl in The Exorcist (1973) shot her to stardom. The young actress became instantly recognizable, and her portrayal remains one of horror’s most iconic performances. Despite her early success, Blair struggled to find roles that could follow up her Exorcist fame.

Her career continued but mostly in smaller, low-budget films. The intense typecasting of the horror genre limited her options, leading her to step away from mainstream roles. Blair eventually moved toward animal activism, leaving her once-prominent Hollywood days behind.

2. Susan Dey

Rising to fame on The Partridge Family (1970-1974), Susan Dey was one of television’s breakout stars in the early 70s. Her role as Laurie Partridge won her widespread recognition, and her subsequent work in movies like First Love (1977) showed her potential as a film actress as well.

Although Dey continued acting into the 1980s, including a successful run on L.A. Law, she gradually stepped back from Hollywood and became less involved in acting. She chose a private life away from the fame, making only occasional public appearances.

3. Karen Lynn Gorney

Karen Lynn Gorney starred as Stephanie in Saturday Night Fever (1977), opposite John Travolta, bringing a lively spirit to the disco hit. Her chemistry with Travolta and her dance moves were unforgettable, making her a standout star of the 70s. But the fame didn’t lead to more big roles.

After Saturday Night Fever, Gorney’s career slowed, and she shifted focus away from major film projects. Although she made occasional appearances in TV and independent films, she never recaptured the spotlight, stepping back to focus on her personal and creative pursuits.

4. Richard Roundtree

Known as the original Shaft (1971), Richard Roundtree became an action icon with his bold portrayal of the detective in the gritty Blaxploitation film. Roundtree’s role left an enduring impact on the genre, symbolizing strength and style. Despite the character’s popularity, major roles became scarce over time.

Roundtree continued acting in smaller roles but didn’t find the same level of fame. Though he remained in the industry, the spotlight shifted away, with his days as a leading figure in Hollywood primarily remaining a part of 70s cinema history.

5. Ali MacGraw

Ali MacGraw’s heartfelt role in Love Story (1970) turned her into a household name and earned her an Academy Award nomination. She was celebrated for her emotional performance and became a prominent romantic lead. But after a few more high-profile films, her acting career began to slow down.

MacGraw made fewer appearances as the years went on, and her time in the Hollywood spotlight gradually faded. She eventually transitioned away from acting to explore her interests in yoga and animal activism, leaving her brief but memorable acting career as part of the 70s.

6. Bo Derek

Bo Derek became a sensation after her role in 10 (1979), where she captivated audiences with her beach scene and became a pop culture icon. Her distinctive look and style made her one of the decade’s most recognizable faces. However, the roles that followed didn’t capture the same attention.

After a string of less successful films, Derek found herself gradually stepping away from major acting roles. She maintained a presence in entertainment but shifted her focus, letting her short-lived time in the Hollywood spotlight become a defining part of 70s film history.

7. Tatum O’Neal

Tatum O’Neal’s Oscar-winning performance in Paper Moon (1973) made her the youngest person to ever win an Academy Award at age 10. The film’s success and her remarkable talent brought her into the public eye. But as she grew older, O’Neal’s Hollywood journey became more complex.

She faced personal struggles and fewer roles, causing her career to lose momentum. Although she continued acting in smaller projects, she never recaptured the same level of fame as her early years, leaving her once-bright stardom largely a part of 70s cinema.

8. Robby Benson

Robby Benson captured hearts with his boyish charm in films like Ode to Billy Joe (1976) and Ice Castles (1978). Known for his soft-spoken roles and gentle demeanor, he became a popular romantic lead during the decade. Despite his early success, Benson’s roles began to wane.

As the 80s approached, he shifted his focus to directing and voice acting, including the role of Beast in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. His career found new paths, but his days as a leading man in front of the camera became a memorable part of the 70s.