Child actors often experience immense fame at a young age, only to disappear from the public eye as they grow older. For Black child actors, the challenges of staying relevant in Hollywood can be even more daunting, as systemic issues of underrepresentation and stereotyping have historically affected opportunities for Black performers.

Many Black child actors who captivated audiences with their talent eventually faded from the spotlight, leaving fans wondering: where are they now?

1. **Jurnee Smollett**

Jurnee Smollett began her career at a very young age, starring in TV shows like “Full House” and “Hangin’ with Mr. Cooper.” However, her breakthrough role came in the 1997 film *Eve’s Bayou*, where she gave a stellar performance that earned her critical acclaim.

Smollett managed to stay relevant as an adult, unlike many of her peers. She continued her acting journey in popular shows like “Friday Night Lights” and HBO’s *Lovecraft Country*, proving her versatility as an actress. Although she temporarily stepped back from the limelight, her career revival with *Lovecraft Country* demonstrated that she is still a force in Hollywood.

2. **Tahj Mowry**

Tahj Mowry, the younger brother of Tia and Tamera Mowry, is best known for his role as T.J. Henderson in *Smart Guy*, a hit show from the late 1990s. His character, a child prodigy who enters high school at a young age, resonated with many viewers.

After the show ended, Tahj continued to act in a few TV shows and movies, such as *Seventeen Again* and *Kim Possible* (as the voice of Wade). However, his acting career eventually slowed down.

In recent years, Tahj has shifted his focus towards music, releasing an EP in 2015 titled *Future Funk*. While he’s no longer a constant presence on TV screens, Tahj is pursuing a career in music, showing that his artistic talents extend beyond acting.

3. **Orlando Brown**

Orlando Brown was once a prominent face in Disney Channel shows, starring as Eddie Thomas in *That’s So Raven*. Before his Disney days, he appeared in various TV series, including *Family Matters* and *The Jamie Foxx Show*.

Brown’s career, however, took a downturn as he struggled with legal and personal issues, including arrests and substance abuse problems. He made headlines for erratic behavior, which ultimately affected his professional life.

In recent years, Brown has expressed a desire to turn his life around and has been open about seeking help for his personal struggles. While he may not have returned to acting in any major capacity, his journey to recovery has become a focal point for those who followed his career.

4. **Raven-Symoné**

Raven-Symoné was one of the biggest Black child stars of the 1990s and 2000s. She started her career on *The Cosby Show* as Olivia Kendall, then transitioned to starring in her own Disney Channel show, *That’s So Raven*.

The success of her show, which became one of Disney Channel’s highest-rated series, catapulted her to stardom. As she transitioned into adulthood, Raven-Symoné took on fewer acting roles and focused on hosting, becoming a co-host on *The View*.

Though she briefly stepped away from the entertainment industry to focus on her personal life, Raven-Symoné returned to the role of Raven Baxter in *Raven’s Home*, a reboot of her original series. While she may have moved in and out of the spotlight, she remains a significant figure in Hollywood.

5. **Kyla Pratt**

Kyla Pratt rose to fame as the voice of Penny Proud in Disney Channel’s animated series *The Proud Family*. She also had roles in movies like *Dr. Dolittle* alongside Eddie Murphy, and the UPN show *One on One*.

Pratt remained fairly active throughout her teenage years but gradually took on fewer roles as she transitioned into adulthood. However, unlike some child actors who completely disappear, Kyla never stopped acting.

She returned to voice Penny Proud in *The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder*, a reboot of the original series. She’s also been featured in shows like *Let’s Stay Together* and *Call Me Kat*, demonstrating her lasting presence in the industry.

6. **Marcus T. Paulk**

Marcus T. Paulk, best known for his role as Myles Mitchell on the sitcom *Moesha*, was another Black child actor who seemed poised for a bright future. After *Moesha*, Paulk appeared in several films, including *Roll Bounce* and *Take the Lead*.

However, his career didn’t maintain the same momentum as his childhood success. Like Orlando Brown, Paulk encountered some legal troubles that affected his public image. Although he hasn’t been in the spotlight much in recent years, Paulk has been involved in independent film projects and music, working behind the scenes to stay connected to the entertainment world.

7. **Keshia Knight Pulliam**

Keshia Knight Pulliam became a household name as Rudy Huxtable, the adorable youngest daughter on *The Cosby Show*. Her role earned her a place in television history as one of the most beloved child actors of the 1980s.

After *The Cosby Show*, Pulliam took a break from acting to focus on her education and personal life. She later returned to the screen in Tyler Perry’s *House of Payne*, where she played the character Miranda. Pulliam has also ventured into producing and continues to work in Hollywood, although at a more measured pace than during her childhood.

8. **Shad Moss (Bow Wow)**

Shad Moss, better known as Bow Wow, was a child star in the music industry before transitioning into acting. He made his film debut in *Like Mike* (2002), a basketball-themed comedy, and later appeared in movies like *Johnson Family Vacation* and *Roll Bounce*.

Although he had a successful music career as a teenager, Bow Wow eventually stepped away from both music and acting. He rebranded himself as Shad Moss and explored other ventures, including hosting and reality television.

While he may not have the same fame he did as a child, Moss has managed to maintain a presence in the entertainment industry in various capacities.

9. **Trina McGee**

Trina McGee gained popularity playing Angela Moore on *Boy Meets World*, a groundbreaking role at the time because she was one of the few Black actresses featured in a predominantly white cast on a major sitcom.

After the show ended, McGee’s career quieted down significantly. In recent years, she has opened up about the racism and mistreatment she experienced while working on the show, which she believes contributed to her exit from Hollywood. Today, McGee focuses on writing and occasionally takes on smaller acting roles.

Video