1. Shelley Duvall
Shelley Duvall, with her unmistakable quirky charm, became a beloved star of the ’70s after iconic roles in films like The Shining and Popeye. However, after her portrayal of Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s horror masterpiece, Duvall’s career took an unexpected turn. Despite her immense talent, she stepped away from the spotlight. In interviews, Duvall explained that the intense pressure from Hollywood and her personal battles led her to seek a quieter, more private life. She moved out of California, retreating from the relentless demands of fame.
Her absence from the big screen was not due to lack of desire but rather a conscious choice to focus on her well-being. In the years that followed, Duvall rarely appeared in public, with her last known acting role in the late ’90s. Her withdrawal from Hollywood remains a bittersweet part of her legacy. Fans continue to wonder what might have been if she had stayed in the industry, but respect for her decision to find peace in her own terms endures.
2. Gene Hackman
Gene Hackman was one of the most respected actors of the ’70s, known for his fierce performances in films like The French Connection and The Conversation. However, after a successful career, Hackman shocked fans when he announced his retirement from acting in 2004. His decision came after decades of playing gritty, often complex characters in both mainstream and independent films. Hackman was open about his desire to leave the industry while he was still on top, preferring a quieter life.
He moved to Santa Fe, New Mexico, where he began focusing on writing novels and pursuing other personal interests. Despite some rumors of returning to film, Hackman has never been lured back to Hollywood, cementing his retirement. His exit remains a mystery to many, but Hackman made it clear that he was done with the limelight. His work remains timeless, but his choice to step away from the Hollywood grind reflects his desire to embrace a new, more peaceful chapter.
3. Mariette Hartley
Mariette Hartley, a star in the ’70s thanks to her memorable roles in TV series like The Scarecrow and Mrs. King and commercials, decided to leave Hollywood behind after establishing herself as a talented actress. Though she had great success in television and film, Hartley faced personal struggles that led her to reevaluate her career. By the early ’80s, she had largely disappeared from the public eye, choosing to focus on family life and other pursuits.
While she remained active in theater and appeared occasionally in small roles, Hartley stepped away from the glitz of Hollywood. Her decision to prioritize a simpler life reflected her wish to avoid the pressures of fame. Over the years, she’s shared that leaving the spotlight allowed her to rediscover her passions and sense of self. Hollywood might have lost one of its beloved stars, but Mariette Hartley found her peace away from the camera.
4. Sally Field
Sally Field was a household name throughout the ’70s, known for her roles in The Flying Nun and Smokey and the Bandit. After years of successfully balancing television and film, she made the bold decision to scale back her career. She sought a more private life after finding herself disillusioned with the demands of fame. In the ’80s, Field transitioned into a more selective career path, focusing on smaller, more personal projects.
She also devoted time to her family and her own well-being, choosing not to chase every role that came her way. While she occasionally returned for standout performances, Field’s decision to step back from constant Hollywood attention was intentional. She found a fulfilling balance in life that didn’t require her to constantly be in the public eye. Her career was never overshadowed by her absence, but her choice to pursue peace remains an inspiring example of self-care.
5. Tatum O’Neal
Tatum O’Neal burst into the scene at a young age, becoming the youngest person to ever win an Academy Award for Paper Moon in 1973. After such a spectacular start to her career, O’Neal found herself caught up in the turbulent world of fame. The pressures of Hollywood and personal struggles took a toll on her, leading her to make a conscious decision to leave the industry in the ’80s. She had enjoyed early success but found it difficult to cope with the expectations and demands placed on her.
Although O’Neal did attempt a few comebacks, including reality TV appearances and supporting roles, she chose to stay away from mainstream Hollywood for good. Over the years, O’Neal has spoken about her decision to step away from the fame game, focusing on personal growth and stability. While she may never fully return to the industry, her early career remains legendary. Tatum’s decision to walk away reflects the complexity of growing up in the limelight and choosing peace over fame.
6. Richard Dreyfuss
Richard Dreyfuss was one of the standout stars of the ’70s, known for films like Jaws and American Graffiti. He was one of Hollywood’s most promising actors during this era, earning numerous accolades and gaining fame across the world. However, after a string of iconic roles, Dreyfuss made an abrupt decision to distance himself from Hollywood by the ’90s. He cited a growing dissatisfaction with the industry and its way of handling creative control, which led to his retreat.
Though he’s occasionally reappeared in films, Dreyfuss has remained largely out of the public eye. His decision to step away reflected his desire for a more grounded existence. Today, Dreyfuss spends his time teaching, writing, and occasionally lending his voice to documentary work. While his legacy is firmly rooted in the ’70s, his absence from mainstream cinema speaks volumes about his quest for a more fulfilling life beyond the glare of fame.
7. Bette Davis
Bette Davis was an iconic actress of the ’40s and ’50s, but her legacy continued to inspire throughout the ’60s and into the ’70s. After decades of extraordinary performances, Davis became increasingly disillusioned with the changing landscape of Hollywood. By the end of the ’70s, she chose to retire from acting, moving away from the hustle of the industry that had once been her world. Despite the continued admiration for her craft, Davis made the personal choice to retreat into privacy.
Though she did take on some television roles, her appearances became more infrequent as she focused on other aspects of her life. Davis’ decision to step away wasn’t entirely about leaving acting; it was also about preserving her dignity and finding fulfillment in quieter pursuits. While the Hollywood machine often moves on without its legends, Davis’ exit highlighted the price of fame. She remains one of Hollywood’s greatest stars, but her exit was as dramatic and personal as any of her performances.
