Before video games, computers, cell phones and other gadgets, almost everybody was hooked on VHS, the cinemas and or the television. So viewers get curious about the child actors of the yesteryears. A couple of Hollywood’s former child stars have succeeded outside the limelight of show business:
Melissa Gilbert, 45 – best known for her portrayal of Laura Elizabeth Ingalls Wilder in the T.V. series “Little House on the Prairie” from 1974 to 1982. In 1985, Gilbert is the youngest person to be honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for participation in the television business.
In 1978, Gilbert ventured into productions after her personal manager formed Half-pint Productions. Gilbert came up with The Miracle Worker in 1979 in which she starred as Helen Keller opposite Patty Duke. The film won an Emmy for the movie of the week. In 1987, she did a bright stage performance and won an Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Debuting Actress. She also landed lead roles in The Glass Menagerie, The Miracle Worker, Bus Stop, and Love Letters at the Los Angeles’ Canon Theater.
Gilbert made more shows in the 90’s and in 1996, expanded her talents to directing. In the turn of the century, Gilbert continued on playing lead roles.
Fred Savage, 32 – best remembered for his role on “Wonder Years” as Kevin Arnold. Fred began his acting career at nine for small television roles. His big break, however, came in 1987 when he got the role as the cheeky grandson of Peter Falk in the comical movie “The Princess Bride.” Fred graduated from Brentwood High in LA in 1994 and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Communications and English at Stanford University.
Fred had many guest appearances and supporting roles on television shows and films. In recent years, Savage has evolved from actor to director. He directed several episodes of “Even Stevens” and “That so Raven” for the Disney Channel.