27 Celebrities From The 70s That Everyone Forgot About
The 1970s were a vibrant, unforgettable era filled with disco balls, bell-bottoms, and a burst of larger-than-life personalities who lit up our screens, stages, and airwaves. Or were they truly unforgettable?
As I dug through the groovy archives of pop culture past, I discovered a fascinating trove of celebrities who once basked in the spotlight—only to quietly fade from memory.
These stars were household names during their heyday, shaping the cultural fabric of the ’70s with their talent, charisma, and unique flair. Yet somehow, their stories have slipped through the cracks of time.
Join me on a nostalgic journey as we revisit 28 forgotten celebrities of the 1970s who helped make the decade as iconic as a lava lamp.
1. Leif Garrett
Leif Garrett, the ultimate teen idol of the 70s, once had fans swooning with a mere flip of his golden locks.
I remember plastering his posters all over my room. His soulful eyes seemed to follow me everywhere! Garrett’s music and acting career was the talk of the town. From hit singles to movies, he had it all.
But just as quickly as he rose to fame, he vanished from the spotlight. Did you know he tried a comeback? It’s like finding a forgotten mixtape in your attic.
2. Karen Lynn Gorney
Whenever “Saturday Night Fever” played, Karen Lynn Gorney danced her way into our hearts alongside John Travolta.
Her grace on the dance floor was unparalleled. I often tried replicating her moves, though my living room was no disco hall.
Despite her success, Gorney stepped out of the limelight after her iconic role. Like a once-vibrant disco ball forgotten in the attic, she faded away. Yet, her dance remains timeless. Did you ever try her dance moves? It’s harder than it looks!
3. David Cassidy
David Cassidy was the crush of millions, including mine. As the star of “The Partridge Family,” his voice was as smooth as a vinyl record.
My friends and I would sing along to every song. Cassidy’s charm was infectious, making teenage hearts flutter nationwide.
Yet, like many others, he stepped away from the spotlight, leaving behind echoes of his melodies. Remember his smile? It was like sunshine on a cloudy day. Fun fact: He was more than just a singer; he was a sensation.
4. Adrienne Barbeau
Adrienne Barbeau, with her captivating presence, was a staple in 70s horror films. I’d hide behind the couch during her scary scenes, peeking through my fingers.
She brought a unique blend of charm and intensity to every role. Despite her success, she gradually disappeared from major Hollywood productions.
Yet, her legacy in the horror genre lingers, much like the mysterious fog in her movies. Did her performances ever give you goosebumps? They sure did for me!
5. Susan Dey
Susan Dey, the poised and elegant actress from “The Partridge Family,” captured hearts with her gentle smile.
I admired her grace and style, often trying to emulate her fashion choices with mixed results. Dey’s talent was undeniable, yet she gracefully exited the limelight, choosing a quieter life.
Her legacy as Laurie Partridge remains, a fond memory of simpler times. Did you know she pursued a career in law? Talk about a plot twist!
6. Richard Roundtree
Richard Roundtree, the original “Shaft,” was the epitome of cool in the 70s. His portrayal of the private detective was nothing short of iconic.
I remember trying to mimic his swagger, though I lacked the leather jacket and charisma. Despite his significant impact, Roundtree’s presence in Hollywood dimmed over time.
Yet, his influence in the action genre is undeniable. Have you seen “Shaft” recently? It’s like a time capsule of style and grit.
7. Linda Ronstadt
Linda Ronstadt’s voice was the soundtrack of the 70s, her range as vast as the open road. I’d sing along to her hits, though my attempts were far from pitch-perfect.
Her music was a constant companion, yet she stepped away from the stage, leaving fans yearning for more.
Ronstadt’s legacy endures, a reminder of a golden era of music. Did you ever try to hit her high notes? They’re a vocal Everest!
8. Jean Stapleton
Jean Stapleton, beloved as Edith Bunker on “All in the Family,” was the heart and soul of the 70s sitcom landscape.
Her comedic timing was impeccable, often leaving me in stitches. Despite her success, Stapleton chose to retire, her voice a cherished memory of laughter-filled nights.
Did her character remind you of anyone? She was everyone’s favorite TV mom.
9. Max Baer Jr.
Max Baer Jr., known as Jethro Bodine from “The Beverly Hillbillies,” brought humor to our screens with his lovable antics.
His comedic genius made Jethro a household name. After the show, Baer’s presence in Hollywood dwindled, yet his character remains a fond memory.
Ever try his hillbilly laugh? It’s infectious!
10. Victoria Principal
Victoria Principal, as Pamela Barnes Ewing in “Dallas,” captivated audiences with her beauty and talent.
She was the queen of the soap opera scene, her performances a staple in my household. After “Dallas,” Principal shifted her focus, becoming a successful entrepreneur.
Her legacy as a TV icon remains. Did you follow her journey on and off the screen?
11. Freddie Prinze
Freddie Prinze, the comedic genius from “Chico and the Man,” brought laughter to millions with his sharp wit.
His humor was a beacon of joy in the 70s, and I remember eagerly tuning in for each episode. Sadly, Prinze’s life was cut short, but his legacy of laughter endures.
Ever laugh so hard you cried? Prinze had that effect.
12. Lynda Carter
Lynda Carter, the embodiment of Wonder Woman, inspired a generation with her strength and grace.
I’d twirl around, pretending to transform into the superhero. Carter’s portrayal was iconic, yet she gracefully stepped back from the limelight.
Her influence remains, a testament to her role as the original Wonder Woman. Did you ever try her spin? It’s a dizzying delight!
13. Paul Michael Glaser
Paul Michael Glaser, as Starsky in “Starsky & Hutch,” defined 70s cop drama with style and flair.
His on-screen partnership was legendary, a staple on my TV. Glaser’s career continued beyond the show, yet his role as Starsky remains etched in pop culture.
Ever try to solve a mystery with a friend? Glaser’s portrayal made it look thrilling.
14. Pam Grier
Pam Grier, the queen of Blaxploitation films, was a powerhouse on screen.
Her roles were bold, and her presence commanding. I admired her strength and style, though I could never quite pull off her look.
Grier’s influence in cinema is profound, yet her name isn’t as recognized today. Ever feel empowered just watching someone? That’s the Grier effect.
15. Larry Wilcox
Larry Wilcox, as Officer Jon Baker in “CHiPs,” brought law and order to the sun-soaked streets of California.
His portrayal was charming, his smile disarming.
After the show, Wilcox pursued other ventures, yet his role as a TV cop remains unforgettable. Ever try riding a motorcycle? Wilcox made it look easy!
16. Valerie Harper
Valerie Harper, as Rhoda Morgenstern, lit up the screen with her humor and heart.
Her character was relatable, a friend to all who watched. After “Rhoda,” Harper continued to act, yet her most beloved role remains dear to fans.
Ever feel like Rhoda was your best friend? Her warmth was infectious.
17. Michael York
Michael York, known for his role in “Logan’s Run,” captivated audiences with his distinct voice and presence.
His performances were a cinematic journey, each role a new adventure. York’s career evolved over time, yet his 70s roles remain iconic.
Ever get lost in a movie world? York had that effect on viewers.
18. Lee Majors
Lee Majors, the bionic man, was a symbol of futuristic action in “The Six Million Dollar Man.”
His portrayal was thrilling, and as a kid, I’d imitate his slow-motion run. Majors’ career continued, yet his role as Steve Austin remains legendary.
Ever pretend to have bionic powers? Majors made it a childhood staple.
19. Tatum O’Neal
Tatum O’Neal, the youngest Oscar winner, was a prodigy on screen. Her performances were a blend of innocence and talent.
As a fan, I was in awe of her achievements. O’Neal’s career faced ups and downs, yet her early success is unforgettable.
Ever wonder what it’s like to achieve so much so young? O’Neal’s story is one of resilience.
20. Marlon Brando
Marlon Brando, the method acting maestro, was a towering presence in cinema.
His performances were transformative, each role a masterclass. Brando’s influence on acting is profound, yet he often retreated from public life.
Ever get lost in a character’s world? Brando’s roles made that possible.
21. Farrah Fawcett
Farrah Fawcett, with her famous feathered hair, was an icon of the 70s.
Her poster adorned many walls, mine included. Fawcett’s charm and talent were undeniable, yet she sought more than just the glamor.
Her legacy endures, a symbol of beauty and strength. Ever try that hairstyle? It’s a timeless classic.
22. John Ritter
John Ritter, as Jack Tripper on “Three’s Company,” was a comedic force.
His timing was impeccable, and his antics left audiences in stitches. Ritter’s career continued, though his role on the sitcom remains cherished by fans.
Ever laugh until you cried? Ritter had a knack for it.
23. Jaclyn Smith
Jaclyn Smith, one of the original “Charlie’s Angels,” brought elegance and intrigue to the screen.
Her portrayal was captivating, each episode a new adventure. Smith’s career flourished beyond the show, yet her role as an angel remains iconic.
Ever dream of being a detective? Smith made it look glamorous.
24. Richard Chamberlain
Richard Chamberlain, the original TV heartthrob, was a sensation in “The Thorn Birds.”
His roles were a tapestry of emotion and depth. Chamberlain’s career spanned decades, yet his 70s performances remain beloved.
Ever get swept up in a story? Chamberlain’s roles had that magic.
25. Cybill Shepherd
Cybill Shepherd, in “Taxi Driver,” was a beacon of allure and talent.
Her performances were captivating, each role a new facet. Shepherd’s career evolved, yet her work in the 70s remains a standout.
Ever been mesmerized by a film? Shepherd had that effect on audiences.
26. Burt Reynolds
Burt Reynolds, the charismatic cowboy, was a staple of 70s cinema.
His charm was magnetic, and his roles were legendary. Reynolds’ career was a rollercoaster, yet his influence in Hollywood is everlasting.
Ever try to emulate his swagger? Reynolds set the standard.
27. Sally Field
Sally Field, with her infectious energy, lit up “Smokey and the Bandit.”
Her performances were a blend of humor and heart. Field’s career soared beyond the 70s, yet her roles from the era remain timeless.
Ever get caught up in a chase scene? Field made it exhilarating.