1. Suzanne Somers: From Three’s Company to Fitness Guru
Suzanne Somers was the epitome of the ’70s sitcom darling, playing the adorable and dim-witted Chrissy Snow on Three’s Company. But instead of staying in the world of sitcoms, she shocked fans by reinventing herself as a fitness and wellness icon. In the ’80s, Somers became one of the most visible proponents of fitness, releasing a series of best-selling books about health, dieting, and exercise. She also introduced the controversial ThighMaster, which became a sensation in fitness equipment.
Her career shift wasn’t without challenges, though. After leaving Three’s Company amidst contract disputes, she fought to change the narrative of her career. Somers was no longer just the lovable airhead from television; she had become a savvy businesswoman, offering health advice and products that resonated with a generation of women interested in maintaining their vitality. Her unexpected career shift demonstrated her resilience and versatility in an industry that can easily pigeonhole its stars.
2. Burt Reynolds: From Sex Symbol to Director
Burt Reynolds rose to fame in the ’70s as the ultimate heartthrob, thanks to roles in films like Deliverance and Smokey and the Bandit. But what shocked many was his decision to pivot to a more behind-the-scenes role, focusing on directing. After establishing himself as one of Hollywood’s leading men, Reynolds began to explore the other side of filmmaking, taking the reins on projects like Gator and Sharky’s Machine. These films gave him the opportunity to showcase his creative vision and solidified his place not only as a star but also as a director.
His shift from on-screen sex symbol to director was an unexpected move, especially in an era where actors rarely took on dual roles. Reynolds’ directorial ventures weren’t always huge box office successes, but they showed a different side of him. The transition also allowed him to gain more control over his career, and it was clear that Reynolds was more than just a pretty face – he was a multifaceted artist with a deep love for the craft of filmmaking.
3. John Travolta: From Dance Floors to Pilot’s Seats
John Travolta’s career trajectory in the ’70s could not have been more unpredictable. After becoming a sensation for his roles in Welcome Back, Kotter and Saturday Night Fever, Travolta shocked Hollywood when he turned his attention to aviation. A certified private pilot, Travolta is known for his passion for flying, and he even became a spokesman for the airline industry. His love for flying didn’t just stay a hobby, as he famously owned a private plane and even had a personal airport built near his home in Florida.
Travolta’s passion for aviation was so strong that it briefly overshadowed his acting career. He took several years off from Hollywood to focus on flying, and though his acting career did have its ups and downs, he made a triumphant return in the ’90s with Pulp Fiction. His career move into aviation seemed to balance the pressures of fame with his personal interests, making it clear that Travolta’s life was about more than just acting. His unexpected focus on aviation added a layer of depth to his public persona and was a complete curveball for fans.
4. Pam Grier: From Blaxploitation Star to Hollywood Icon
Pam Grier was the face of the ’70s Blaxploitation genre, starring in films like Foxy Brown and Coffy. But her career didn’t stop there. In the ’90s, Grier made an unexpected leap from action-packed roles to more serious and complex characters in mainstream films. Her iconic performance in Quentin Tarantino’s Jackie Brown proved that Grier was far more than her action heroine persona. She reinvented herself as a respected actress with range, transitioning from genre films to more prestigious roles with ease.
Grier’s career shift was especially noteworthy because, as a Black woman in Hollywood, she was often boxed into stereotypical roles. However, her perseverance and talent allowed her to break free from that mold. By the ’90s, Grier had become a Hollywood legend, proving that she could be both a star and an artist who could tackle a variety of roles. It was a complete departure from the tough, action-oriented characters she played in the ’70s, and it shocked everyone who had known her as a Blaxploitation queen.
5. Farrah Fawcett: From Bombshell to Fine Artist
Farrah Fawcett became an icon in the ’70s, largely thanks to her role on Charlie’s Angels, where she made the infamous red swimsuit her signature. But after her career took off, Fawcett stunned fans by shifting her focus to fine art. She dabbled in painting and even had her artwork featured in galleries, signaling a break from her glamorous image. While her acting career continued with various TV roles, it was her passion for art that caught many by surprise.
Fawcett’s unexpected artistic career move showed her desire to cultivate a different identity beyond the one she had built as the epitome of beauty and glamor. She proved that she was more than just a television star and sought fulfillment in expressing herself through her artwork. This shift allowed Fawcett to redefine her legacy, adding a more personal and introspective dimension to her life and career.
6. David Bowie: From Rock Icon to Acting Chameleon
David Bowie, a constant reinvention of himself, was already an icon in the ’70s with his musical career. Known for his unique style and groundbreaking music, Bowie shocked many when he ventured into acting, taking roles in films like The Man Who Fell to Earth and Labyrinth. His portrayal of the alien Thomas Jerome Newton in The Man Who Fell to Earth demonstrated a new dimension of Bowie’s artistry, showing he had a flair for drama and film as well as music.
Bowie’s acting career, though not as extensive as his music career, revealed a side of him that few expected. He wasn’t content to just be a rock star; he wanted to explore every creative avenue available to him. Bowie’s seamless blend of acting and music helped him transcend the boundaries of one genre and established him as one of the most multifaceted artists in the world. His venture into film was not just a side project but a reflection of his constant quest for new forms of self-expression.
7. Gene Hackman: From Action Hero to Character Actor
In the ’70s, Gene Hackman was known for his roles in action-packed films like The French Connection and Superman, where he played the villain Lex Luthor. But Hackman shocked the industry by stepping away from the spotlight in the early ’90s, retiring from acting to focus on writing novels. This unexpected move caught fans by surprise, as Hackman was still at the height of his acting career when he decided to leave Hollywood behind.
While many actors stay in the industry until their careers fade, Hackman’s decision to retire on top was a bold and surprising move. He didn’t just disappear; he transitioned into a quiet life as a successful author, writing novels that received critical acclaim. Hackman’s ability to reinvent himself and step away from acting at the peak of his career demonstrated his desire to explore different creative outlets and live a life outside the Hollywood limelight. His shift from action star to writer was as unexpected as it was inspiring.
