Alicia Silverstone Reveals Why She Took Breaks From Acting

Alicia Silverstoneis used to totally breakin’.

The actress famous for her role in “Clueless” (1995) took a moment to consider how that cherished film affected her professional journey, leading her to adjust her approach to acting.

In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, published on August 14th, Alicia shared that before the release of “Clueless”, she was naturally more intuitive, playful, and confident in her actions. After the movie, however, she admitted to experiencing a period of stress during which she became more analytical or something similar. This phase lasted for about three to four years, leaving her with a peculiar sensation.

The 48-year-old stated, “Acting holds significant value for me, yet there have been periods when I stepped away from it only to return due to my deep passion for it. I’ve discovered that one can balance multiple aspects of life.

Absolutely, Alicia – who will be executive producing and reprising her role as Cher Horowitz in a new Clueless prequel series – has consistently used her career to pursue her interests. Notably, she’s persevered through criticism directed at some of her less successful films, such as when she received the Razzie Award for Worst Supporting Actress in 1997’s Batman & Robin, where she starred alongside George Clooney and Chris O’Donnell.

As a fellow human being, it’s inevitable that sensitive spots within us get touched from time to time. However, what ignited my passion recently is diving headfirst into activism – a commitment driven by an unwavering desire to contribute positively and shape our world into a better place.

Alicia commented, “That made me ponder some more. If acting was my sole source of fulfillment, maybe I would feel a little more crushed.

Meanwhile, the actress who played Crush, mother to 14-year-old Bear with ex-husband Christopher Jarecki, had once mentioned that she had stopped loving acting for a considerable period. However, she is thankful for how her acting career has supported her activism efforts for animal welfare and environmental conservation.

In her interview with The Guardian in 2020, Alicia expressed, “My instincts were telling me this is my purpose, I am deeply passionate about it, I must find a way to make it work.” So, she combined her acting career with activism.

Read on for more stars who have talked about their reasons for stepping away from Hollywood.

As a devoted admirer looking back, I recall that the legendary Ellen DeGeneres ended her namesake talk show in 2022 following a 19-season run, amidst claims of a challenging workplace culture. This led to an internal examination, dismissals of executives, and widespread criticism.

After some time away, Ellen emerged once more, gracing our screens with her final standup special titled “For Your Approval,” which premiered on Netflix in September 2024. In the build-up to this special, she unveiled her decision to step out of the limelight in Hollywood entirely.

During her Ellen’s Last Stand…Up tour, she shared with an audience that this would be the final time they see her perform, as she stated she will end her comedy career following her Netflix special. Ellen and her wife Portia de Rossi later moved to England in November 2024, a decision made after Donald Trump’s reelection. This was confirmed by Ellen in an interview with broadcaster Richard Bacon in July 2025.

One reason Tyra Banks, the host of America’s Next Top Model, relocated to Australia was due to her involvement in an ice cream brand called SMiZE and Dream. The company had been producing its ice cream in large facilities there, and she fell in love with the country every time she visited. It also turned out to be a promising market for her business since, according to Banks, America, New Zealand, and Australia are the top three countries that consume the most ice cream. Alongside her son York (whose father is Erik Asla) and boyfriend Louis Bélanger-Martin, Tyra decided to move to Australia, describing it as a fulfillment of a dream for her family.

After spending many years living on Wisteria Lane, where she starred in Desperate Housewives, Eva Longoria has now relocated to a new home in reality. In November 2024, she shared with Marie Claire that her decision to leave Los Angeles was due to the city undergoing significant changes and a shift in its vibe. The pandemic only accelerated this transition, causing her to feel that it was time for a change.

Alongside her husband José Bastón and their son Santiago, Eva has been splitting her time between Mexico and Spain over the past few years. She acknowledges her privilege of being able to relocate, expressing concern for those Americans who are stuck in a dystopian country. However, she clarified that her move was not motivated by President Trump’s re-election but rather by work opportunities that took her to Catalonia and Mexico.

Eva continues to maintain an active career, with recent roles in Only Murders in the Building and Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Road Trip. She also mentioned that she dislikes the politicization of her decision to move.

The actor and his family have decided to relocate from Chicago to Madrid, Spain, as their Spanish-born wife has lived there for several years. This move is particularly exciting for their two younger sons, Alexander and James, who will now be able to fully immerse themselves in the Spanish language and culture, enriching their lives. The family’s older son, Homer, is also bilingual from his time with their ex-wife, Carey Lowell. Richard himself expressed that they are all thriving in this new phase of their lives, describing their happiness as never before seen.

The singer, Christina (married to Matt Pokora), has moved from the U.S. to Paris and resides there, giving her kids an opportunity to study in France, enhancing their language skills and offering them a new cultural experience. This change has provided a pleasant and balanced lifestyle for the family.

Lindsay grew tired of false rumors circulating about her departure from Los Angeles. To clarify matters, she reflected on her busy work schedule and excessive partying during the 2000s, which often overshadowed her professional achievements due to paparazzi attention when she was younger. In an interview with Bustle in March 2024, she expressed frustration that her work sometimes took a backseat to gossip, wishing that such events had not occurred and acknowledging that the attention spiraled out of control. As a result, she chose to step away from the public eye, stating that unless there was no controversy, the media would focus solely on her personal life rather than her work.

After relocating, Lindsay first moved to London and later Dubai, also establishing beach clubs in Greece. However, there was another factor driving her desire for a life beyond the spotlight.

She pondered, ‘What if I never experience love? What if these moments remain unfelt?’ The actress mused. However, it was simply by focusing on herself that opportunities arose, and the affirmative responses started flowing – the chances she longed to accept.”

It’s worth noting that Lindsay eventually found love with Bader Shammas, getting married in 2022 and welcoming son Luai in 2023. Yet, the actress known for her roles in ‘Mean Girls’, ‘Freaky Friday’, and more hasn’t completely departed from Hollywood, continuing to star in films such as ‘Our Little Secret’, ‘Irish Wish’, and ‘Freakier Friday’. They currently reside in Dubai.

After pondering deeply about his life, actor Josh from Black Mirror made a decision to depart from Hollywood. He shared with People magazine in July 2024 that Hollywood is not just a place, but a way of thinking. Being surrounded by people who are always discussing the film industry, he felt, would limit his experiences and growth. Instead, Josh craved a broader perspective, desiring to be around people engaged in various activities beyond entertainment, which would stimulate him intellectually and encourage personal development. He referred to this as the essence of life. Consequently, Josh, along with his wife Tamsin Egerton and their four children, moved to the countryside of Hampshire, England. He told The Guardian in July 2024 that time flew by quickly when tending to four kids, although it seemed like less was happening, the crucial moments were more abundant. Despite relocating, Josh remained busy, taking on roles in Verity, Fight or Flight, and Trap.

If you haven’t been keeping up with social media, you might not know that Jesse no longer resides in L.A. In February 2025, he revealed to CBS News Sunday Morning that he’s spent the last decade living on and off in Indiana, a place where he feels most comfortable. He shared his discomfort with being surrounded by an industry that seems unstable to him.

Despite his Oscar nomination, Jesse leads a relatively ordinary life with his wife Anna Strout and son Banner. He stays away from social media and doesn’t regularly communicate with industry contacts. As a result, his life feels detached from the constant scrutiny of the entertainment industry. His wife is a teacher, and their son rarely watches movies.

Following stints in productions like “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and the year 2000’s “Bring It On”, Eliza announced in September 2024 that she had obtained certification in psychedelic-assisted therapy and was continuing her education to specialize in mental health care.

She shared with Boston Magazine, “I had the opportunity to change paths in life and concentrate on healing myself first, so I could subsequently aid others in their healing. It would be negligent of me not to disclose the transformation, tranquility, and enthusiasm that I’ve experienced. This is undeniably my true vocation, my genuine purpose.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I’m excited to share my personal journey that began in January 2025 when I packed up my life and moved with my youngest son, Clay, to the Emerald Isle – Ireland. You see, my heart has always held a special place for this beautiful European country as it shares roots with my grandparents.

While the recent political landscape was a significant factor in my decision to relocate, I’ve left the door open for a potential return to the land I call home. After all, home is where the heart is, and mine remains divided between two remarkable places.

In a TikTok video, she expressed her longing for her other children, friends, and various aspects of life back at home. She’s searching for a sense of belonging here in this lovely country, but insists on returning only when all Americans enjoy equal rights and safety.

The actress who plays a role in Ant-Man and the Wasp revealed that she plans to take an extended break from acting following two decades in the entertainment field.

In a post on Instagram in June 2024, Evangeline shared her feelings of immense happiness and contentment as she pursues her vision. She expressed deep gratitude for her blessings and acknowledged that choosing a path less ordinary (wealth and fame) might seem intimidating at times. However, following one’s true calling brings about a sense of fulfillment that overcomes the initial fear.

However, she’s not definitively closing the door on a potential Hollywood return. Instead, she expresses, “I may find myself back in Hollywood someday, but for the time being, this is where I feel at home.

The actor from “The Vampire Diaries” hasn’t taken on a new character since the 2019 Netflix series “V-Wars.” Rather than diving headfirst into another role, he has instead delved more deeply into a personal project: his crusade to fight climate change by enhancing soil health worldwide.

Ian, who has two children with his wife Nikki Reed, explained in an interview with TopMob News in November 2023 that he took a break from acting approximately four years ago to focus on raising his kids, developing businesses, and bringing the documentaries ‘Kiss the Ground’ (released in 2020) and its sequel ‘Common Ground’ to light. These films highlight the importance of regenerative farming practices.

Looking ahead in the years to come, I envision myself as a rancher, cultivating and establishing impactful brands, be it my own bourbon or wellness company. Embracing regenerative agriculture and soil management techniques that not only sustain my lifestyle but also that of my family, becomes the foundation of my life’s journey. When someone asks, “Why do you take such interest?” I can honestly respond: “Because this is me, this is my future.” This passion for sustainable living and legacy-building is deeply rooted in who I am and where I aspire to be.

In the February 2021 installment of her “Empty Inside” podcast, the former iCarly star disclosed to her guest, Anna Faris, that she had chosen to cease acting a few years prior, instead devoting herself to ventures in writing, directing, and podcast hosting.

Jennette confessed that her acting career, particularly past roles she had taken, left her with a sense of regret and shame. In her recently published memoir “I’m Glad My Mom Died,” she shared these feelings in depth. She expressed resentment towards her career, feeling unfulfilled by the parts she played, which she described as cheesy and embarrassing. From the age of 13 to 21, she starred in various shows, but by 15 years old, she already felt embarrassed about them. To her peers at that age, her roles on Nickelodeon weren’t something cool; instead, they were sources of embarrassment.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I find myself reflecting on the possibility of revisiting acting, a field I left behind years ago. After penning my latest book, I have found a newfound interest in considering how I might approach acting once more, without carrying the weighty baggage that accompanied me for so long. Perhaps if I craft a project tailored specifically to my interests, it could serve as the perfect opportunity to delve back into this captivating realm.

In my perspective, this seemed like a clear and straightforward choice. If I were given the opportunity to marry Prince Harry, commit myself to the philanthropic endeavors that resonate deeply with me, and access the Queen’s extraordinary collection of tiaras – all while bidding farewell to Hollywood – I believe I could wholeheartedly embrace that sacrifice.

Pursuing a career path similar to Grace Kelly who transitioned from Hollywood to the Principality of Monaco, Meghan Markle left her home in Toronto and her successful role on Suits to join The Firm. However, after stepping down from their senior royal roles and settling in Montecito, California, she’s now making a return to the entertainment industry through business ventures such as a multi-year production deal with Netflix.

Meghan Markle has since released her 2022 docuseries Harry & Meghan, her 2025 lifestyle show With Love, Meghan on Netflix, started podcasts, and launched her brand As Ever.

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Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, followed a career path reminiscent of Grace Kelly’s journey from Hollywood to Monaco. Leaving behind her life in Toronto and her popular role on Suits, she joined The Firm. After stepping down from their senior royal roles and moving to Montecito, California, she’s back in the entertainment world with deals like a multi-year partnership with Netflix.

Later on, Meghan released her docuseries Harry & Meghan in 2022, her lifestyle show With Love, Meghan in 2025 on Netflix, started podcasts, and established her brand As Ever.

Since making more than 40 films since her debut in “The Mask” in 1994, the actress had earned a well-deserved hiatus after finishing work on the 2014 movie “Annie.

She shared with friend Gwyneth Paltrow that she had recently chosen to pursue different goals in her life. After years of pushing herself so hard, working tirelessly on films, she confided that it can be incredibly demanding. When filming a movie, she noted, it feels as if the production owns you completely – you’re committed for 12 hours a day, often for several months straight, leaving little room for anything else in your life.

Besides delving deeper into various aspects, such as writing – expanding her work from her 2013 New York Times best-seller “The Body Book” with “The Longevity Book” in 2016, and creating a family with husband Benji Madden, there were many other areas she wished to explore. However, as she shared with InStyle in 2019, “I don’t miss performing. At the moment, I’m focusing on wellness and related fields.” Yet, it seems that the prospect of making a comeback might intrigue her just a little.

Jamie Foxx pleaded earnestly, even kneeling down, saying something like ‘Please, one more time,’ when asking Cameron to join the 2025 Netflix film ‘Back in Action’. He expressed that they adore her, have been eagerly awaiting her return, and this collaboration will undoubtedly be extraordinary,” is a way to paraphrase the original sentence.

After wrapping up his five-year stint on Empire in 2019, the actor made it clear that he would not perform an encore and stated to Extra, “I’ve had enough of acting. I’m finished with pretending.

Despite returning for a few roles in various projects, the Oscar nominee expressed his intention to retire from acting once more during promotions for his Peacock series, “The Best Man: The Final Chapters,” in 2022. Speaking with ET, he stated, “I’ve reached a stage where I’ve given my all as an actor. Now, I find joy in observing the emerging talent and I don’t wish to mimic myself anymore.”

Regardless of earlier criticisms, it’s worth noting that Howard has made appearances in additional shows and films over time. For instance, he was part of the TV series “Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist” and the Netflix movie “Shirley”, with a number of upcoming projects scheduled for the future.

Following King Joffrey’s untimely and purple-hued demise in 2014, the 21-year-old actor behind the character expressed his exit from acting to Entertainment Weekly (EW). Jackaroo (Game of Thrones star) revealed that since he started at eight years old, he simply lost the joy he once found in it.

Jack explained, “Previously, acting was merely a pastime shared with friends and a summertime activity for fun. But now, it could become my career. That shift has altered my perspective on it. Acting isn’t something I loathe; rather, it’s not the path I wish to follow.

After a hiatus of six years, he was eager to return to his acting career. In 2020, he joined the cast of BBC’s series “Out of Her Mind.” Since then, Jack has been featured in films such as “Rebecca’s Boyfriend” and “In the Land of Saints and Sinners,” as well as TV shows like “Safe Harbor” and “The Famous Five.

In September 2020, during a virtual table read for “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” Jennifer Aniston, who played the dream girl, married actor Kevin Kline in 1989. They decided to work alternately to ensure they wouldn’t both be working simultaneously, as shared by Kevin with Playboy, in order to balance raising their children, Owen and Greta (now known musically as Frankie Cosmos).

In regards to her work schedule, Phoebe often prefers to be with the children rather than working when it’s her turn. Despite making a brief appearance in Jennifer Jason Leigh’s 2001 indie film “The Anniversary Party,” Cates typically spends most of her time managing her New York City boutique, Blue Tree.

During the peak of his popularity with films like “Ghostbusters” and “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids,” the ’80s actor took a break from filmmaking not too long after his wife’s passing due to breast cancer in 1991. He then dedicated his time to raising his children Rachel and Mitchell.

Despite not appearing in a live-action movie since 1997, even turning down an opportunity to cameo in Paul Feig’s 2016 Ghostbusters remake, Rick continues to be a cherished cultural figure. This is evident from the public outcry over news about his assault incident in New York City in 2020.

Fortunately, fans have something exciting to look forward to: He’s set to reappear alongside Josh Gad in the upcoming Disney reboot titled Shrunk.

After marrying fashion designer Adam Kimmel in 2010, Drew Barrymore, famously known for her role in “Never Been Kissed,” suggested that she might have moved away from acting. In an interview with Vogue, she explained her reasons, stating that “nearly all acting roles involve a lot of intimate scenes with others, and I’m not interested in doing that.” She further added, “It’s a strange flame to play with, and our relationship is strong enough to handle it, but if you’re going to walk through fire, there has to be something extraordinary on the other side.

Her resolution became firm when her son Martin joined her older daughter Louisanna in 2014. As a result, she stated to Us Weekly at a 2016 event, “I no longer participate in film industry activities; I am now completely out of that scene! I am simply a mom and an outsider.” She added that she assists Kimmel with his business ventures and pursues painting as a hobby. Her primary focus is on her children, which is the main reason for her departure from the industry.

She had watched shows like “Ally McBeal”, “Nip/Tuck”, then “Arrested Development”, and ultimately “Scandal”. At this point, the Australian began to ponder if perhaps she was now prepared for a change.

In her appearance on Ellen DeGeneres’ talk show in 2018, she expressed that at around age 45, she found herself pondering if there was something new and difficult that she could take on. She had a sense of what her acting career would look like for the following decade or two, so she decided to leave acting behind and start a business instead.

She had only one more piece left to complete for her company that produces art for consumers, known as General Public.

I contacted Mitch Hurwitz, the genius behind “Arrested Development,” and explained that if there’s a Season 5, I won’t participate due to my decision to quit acting. He appeared very empathetic, fully grasping the situation. Our chat was delightful, and afterward, he incorporated me into five episodes.

From my perspective as a lifestyle expert, it’s fascinating to see an accomplished artist like him, who has garnered three Academy Awards, making such a decisive move. Not long after being recognized for his sixth Oscar nomination in his final film, “Phantom Thread” (2017), he chose to step away from acting. He expresses profound gratitude towards all the collaborators and audiences who have been part of his journey over the years. This decision is personal, and neither he nor his representatives will provide additional insights on this matter.

Even when Daniel believed he was no longer involved, his son, Ronan Day-Lewis, drew him back in. In October 2024, it was revealed that Focus Features would have Oscar winner Daniel star in the film Anemone, a project he co-wrote with his son, who will also direct.

In 2018, an actress known for “Good Luck Charlie” decided to move away from the limelight and focus on her education. She completed a master’s degree at MIT, and later, she even earned a doctorate from there. Furthermore, she joined Harvard Law School as well.

Additionally, Bridgit not only started Northwood Space, a company focused on developing ground-based satellite stations for transmitting and receiving space data, but she also took on the role of CEO for the brand starting in February 2023.

2025-08-14 23:51

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