The 70s were a golden age for teen magazines, with iconic covers featuring stars who would go on to become household names. From pop icons to sitcom idols, these covers captured the imagination of a generation. But what happened to these beloved stars after their 15 minutes of fame? Let's take a closer look at the lives of some of the biggest names from the decade, and explore how their careers have evolved over the years.
One of the most recognizable faces from the 70s is Phoebe Cates. Before she starred in 'Gremlins' and 'Fast Times at Ridgemont High', she was a model for Seventeen magazine, advising teens to flaunt their new braces. Today, she's a mother-of-two living a quiet life out of the spotlight, enjoying a happy marriage to Kevin Kline. Her last appearance was in 2001's 'The Anniversary Party', and she lent her voice to the 2015 video game 'Lego Dimensions' as her 'Gremlins' character, Kate.
Another 70s heartthrob, Erik Estrada, stole viewers' hearts with his signature smile and dark wavy hair. He's still got that sparky charm today, finding further fame with a Spanish-speaking audience in telenovelas like 'Dos mujeres, un camino'. He's happily married to Nanette Mirkovich, and shares a daughter with his now-wife, as well as two sons from a previous marriage. He made a cameo as a paramedic in the 2017 'CHiPs' film adaptation, proving that he's still got what it takes to captivate audiences.
David Cassidy, the defining pop and screen star for many 70s kids, had a successful run as a solo singer with hit tracks like 'Could It Be Forever' and 'Cherish'. He made the cover of TigerBeat's Ultimate Lovebook, but the chances of becoming his 'secret sweetheart' were pretty slim. Sadly, he passed away from liver failure in 2017, at the age of 67. His legacy lives on, however, through his music and his impact on popular culture.
Gene Simmons, the bassist for KISS, brought an edgy sound to the 70s with the band's iconic black-and-white face paint. He's due to return as part of KISS Kruise: Land-locked in Las Vegas in late 2026, and made headlines in 2024 as the band sold the rights to their music catalogue and iconic face paint designs to the company behind ABBA Voyage. Simmons' legacy is one of innovation and edginess, and his impact on rock music cannot be overstated.
Kristy McNichol, who starred as Buddy in the beloved sitcom 'Family', joined forces with fellow teen idol Leif Garrett on the cover of Dynamite magazine in 1979. She went on to star in 'Empty Nest', but has since left acting behind, officially retiring in 2001. She's been in a happy relationship with her girlfriend Martie Allen for over 30 years, and both of her daughters have followed her footsteps onto the runway.
Gilbert O'Sullivan, the Irish singer-songwriter who found fame with songs like 'Alone Again (Naturally)', 'Clair' and 'Get Down', appeared on the cover of the teen classic Jackie, which reached the height of its success during the decade. He's now living a more reclusive life on the island of Jersey, enjoying a peaceful life with his wife Aase. He makes regular use of his private home music studio, and released the albums 'Gilbert O'Sullivan' in 2018 and 'Driven' in 2022.
Patti Hansen, the model and actress who first appeared on film in 1979's 'Rich Kids', followed by '80s features 'They All Laughed' and 'Hard to Hold', appeared on the cover of Seventeen magazine in 1974, promising to provide guidance on dressing for prom and surviving heartbreak. She's been married twice, and is now happily married to Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, who she wed in 1983. Both of her daughters have followed her footsteps onto the runway.
Susan Dey, who starred as Laurie Partridge on 'The Partridge Family' between 1970 and 1974, and as Grace Van Owen on 'L.A. Law' from 1986 to 1992, is now enjoying her retirement. She was previously married to Lenny Hirshan between 1976 and 1981, and is now happily wed to Bernard Sofronski, whom she tied the knot with in 1988. She welcomed actress daughter Sara Dey-Hirshan with her first husband in 1978.
In conclusion, the 70s were a golden age for teen magazines, and the stars who graced their covers have gone on to have diverse and interesting lives. From models to actors, singers to musicians, these stars have left an indelible mark on popular culture, and their legacies continue to inspire and entertain audiences today.
