1. Cher – From Pop Diva to Entrepreneur and Actress
Cher, the iconic pop diva of the ’70s, had a career that defied all expectations. Known for her chart-topping hits like “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” and “Half-Breed,” she was a symbol of the era’s bold and unique fashion and musical styles. But what many don’t know is how Cher reinvented herself as an actress and business mogul. After making a name for herself on the big screen with her role in Moonstruck, she won an Academy Award, solidifying her versatility in the entertainment world.
While her music career remained strong, Cher also became a savvy entrepreneur, launching her own perfume line and even a successful Las Vegas residency. Her ability to evolve while maintaining her trademark style made her an enduring figure in Hollywood and pop culture. Even today, Cher continues to influence music, fashion, and the entrepreneurial world.
2. David Bowie – Music Icon to Actor
David Bowie was already a star by the ’70s, known for his bold musical personas like Ziggy Stardust. But it was in the following decades that Bowie truly reinvented himself, shifting gears from pop music to acting. He appeared in several films, including The Man Who Fell to Earth and Labyrinth, where his unique presence and range as an actor surprised many. His foray into the film world demonstrated his creative versatility and gave fans a glimpse of his artistic breadth.
While Bowie’s music career never slowed down, his acting allowed him to experiment with new forms of expression, garnering both critical acclaim and a loyal following. This shift solidified his status not just as a musician, but as a multifaceted artist who could thrive in any medium. Bowie’s ability to reinvent himself became one of his most defining qualities.
3. Goldie Hawn – From “Laugh-In” to Serious Actress
Goldie Hawn made a name for herself as the bubbly, blonde bombshell on Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, capturing America’s attention with her comedic charm. However, as the ’70s came to a close, she transformed into one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses. Films like Shampoo and The Sugarland Express proved she had the acting chops to back up her earlier comedic roles.
By the late ’80s, Hawn cemented her place in Hollywood with critically acclaimed roles in Private Benjamin and Overboard. Despite her lighthearted persona, Hawn’s range as an actress showcased her incredible adaptability. She even ventured into producing, proving that her career had depth beyond the surface.
4. Sylvester Stallone – From Struggling Actor to Hollywood Legend
Sylvester Stallone’s journey to fame was anything but easy. In the ’70s, he was a struggling actor, taking on minor roles while working odd jobs. However, he completely reinvented himself when he wrote the screenplay for Rocky, a film that would go on to become an iconic part of film history. Not only did Stallone star in the movie, but he also created a character that resonated with audiences, earning him critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination.
Stallone continued to build on his success with the Rocky and Rambo franchises, becoming an action hero legend. His ability to thrive as both a writer and actor has kept him relevant in Hollywood for decades. Stallone’s story is one of perseverance and the power of reinvention, proving that success doesn’t always come easily, but persistence pays off.
5. John Travolta – From Teen Idol to Comeback King
John Travolta was the heartthrob of the ’70s, especially known for his role in Welcome Back, Kotter and his breakout performance in Saturday Night Fever. But despite his early success, Travolta’s career faltered in the early ’80s. It seemed like his moment in the spotlight had passed, but he shocked the world with his unexpected comeback in Pulp Fiction in 1994, a film that revitalized his career and earned him an Academy Award nomination.
Travolta’s resurgence didn’t stop there; he continued to surprise audiences with his performances in films like Grease and Hairspray. His ability to reinvent himself both on and off the screen has made him an enduring figure in Hollywood. Today, Travolta’s career is a testament to the power of reinvention and the value of not giving up.
6. Jane Fonda – Activist, Actress, and Fitness Guru
In the ’70s, Jane Fonda was a celebrated actress, best known for films like Klute and Barbarella. But as time went on, Fonda took a turn toward activism, becoming one of the most vocal supporters of causes like environmentalism and women’s rights. Her commitment to activism eventually led her to reinvent herself again in the ’80s as a fitness guru, launching a series of workout videos that became hugely popular.
Fonda’s workout empire didn’t just transform her career—it helped redefine fitness for a generation. Over the years, she has continued to act, advocate, and challenge stereotypes, proving that age and societal expectations could never limit her. Her journey is a remarkable example of how an individual can evolve and find new paths to success, even when it seems like their time has passed.
