The 70s were a time of iconic pop culture, from the music that filled our radios to the magazines that adorned our coffee tables. But what happened to the stars that dominated our youth's imagination? From teen idols to rock stars, these are the stories of the 70s icons and where they are now.
One of the decade's most recognizable faces, Phoebe Cates, started her career as a model before becoming a teen heartthrob. Her fame was such that she even modeled braces as cool on the cover of Seventeen in 1979. But, like many stars of her generation, she chose to step away from the spotlight. Today, she lives a quiet life with her husband, Kevin Kline, and their two children, enjoying a life out of the public eye.
Erik Estrada, the motorcycle officer from CHiPs, still has that sparky charm today. He's found further fame with a Spanish-speaking audience in telenovelas like Dos mujeres, un camino. Off-screen, he's happily married and shares three children with two different partners. He's also made a cameo in the 2017 CHiPs film adaptation, proving that he's still got that signature smile and dark wavy hair that stole viewers' hearts.
David Cassidy, the Partridge Family star, was a defining pop and screen star for many 70s kids. His hit tracks like 'Could It Be Forever' and 'Cherish' made him a solo singer too. Sadly, he passed away in 2017 from liver failure. But his legacy lives on, and his music continues to be celebrated.
Gene Simmons, the bassist for KISS, brought an edgy sound to the 70s. His black-and-white face paint became an iconic symbol of the band. Today, he's still making waves, with plans to return as part of KISS Kruise: Land-locked in Las Vegas in late 2026. In 2024, the band sold the rights to their music catalogue and iconic face paint designs, proving that their impact on pop culture is enduring.
Kristy McNichol, the star of the beloved sitcom Family, had a successful run in the 70s and 80s. She even starred alongside her on-screen boyfriend, Leif Garrett, on the cover of Dynamite magazine in 1979. But, like many stars of her generation, she chose to step away from acting. Today, she lives a quiet life with her girlfriend, Martie Allen, and has been in a happy relationship for over 30 years.
Gilbert O'Sullivan, the Irish singer-songwriter, found fame with songs like 'Alone Again (Naturally)' and 'Clair'. He appeared on the cover of the teen classic Jackie, which reached the height of its success during the decade. Today, he lives a more reclusive life on the island of Jersey, enjoying a peaceful life with his wife, Aase. He's released several albums in recent years, proving that his music is still relevant.
Patti Hansen, the model and actress, first appeared on film in 1979's Rich Kids. She even appeared on the cover of Seventeen in 1974, offering guidance on dressing for prom and surviving heartbreak. Today, she's happily married to Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, and both of her daughters have followed her footsteps onto the runway.
Susan Dey, the actress who starred as Laurie Partridge on The Partridge Family, found stardom again in the 80s with a role as Grace Van Owen on L.A. Law. Today, she's retired and living a quiet life with her husband, Bernard Sofronski. She has one daughter, Sara Dey-Hirshan, who is also an actress.
The 70s were a time of iconic pop culture, and these stars played a significant role in shaping our youth's imagination. But, like all things, the decade has moved on, and these stars have moved with it. From living quiet lives out of the spotlight to making comebacks and releasing new music, they continue to be a part of our cultural landscape. And, as we look back on the decade, we can't help but wonder what the future holds for these iconic idols.
