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Celebrities who never "made it"

There are some celebrities whose names are known to some people, but who despite multiple tries at becoming "big names", never achieved it. Some examples I can think of:

Nicole Scherzinger. She may finally become a "big name" when the X-Factor starts, but she has been working on a solo album for four years now. Her first five singles flopped, domestically and internationally. One would think being part of the Pussycat Dolls would give her an edge over a new and unknown artist, but her solo music never found an audience.

Mark Cuban. He has been trying for years to be like Richard Branson or Steve Jobs, and most people respond with "Who?" when his name comes up.

Any others?

by Anonymousreply 305December 31, 2020 11:33 PM

Any of the American "idols"; Christina Applegate- she has yet another sitcom coming on this Fall that will fail; that guy from Napolean Dynamite, Jon Heder; Renee Zellwegger- quick, name 3 movies she was in?; Thandie Newton; Jada Pinkett Got Married; FionaAppleWhoIsAlwaysWorkingOnHerNextBigAlbum

by Anonymousreply 1May 31, 2011 12:00 AM

Gale Harold.

by Anonymousreply 2May 31, 2011 12:02 AM

Christina is arguably the most successful of her "Married" co-stars. She even has an Emmy.

by Anonymousreply 3May 31, 2011 12:03 AM

DJ Qualls

Karl Urban

Tisha Campbell

Will Sasso

by Anonymousreply 4May 31, 2011 12:08 AM

Gabe Kaplan - that Revolta kid stole my thunder

by Anonymousreply 5May 31, 2011 12:09 AM

R3 needs to take a look at Ed O'Neill's and Katey Sagal's resumes, with their considerable work and his Emmy and her Golden Globe, and check out some of the guesses at the size of their wealth - they're both loaded.

So don't play "arguably" in that weak-weasel way. Just say Dave Faustino had a cute ass but is the odd man out.

by Anonymousreply 6May 31, 2011 12:17 AM

Scherzinger has a pretty good part in MEN IN BLACK 3-that combined with THE X FACTOR could mean that by next summer a lot more people will know who she is.

by Anonymousreply 7May 31, 2011 12:20 AM

Sean Bean, unless "Game of Thrones" has put him over the top.%0D %0D Maybe he'll get some good offers after this one.

by Anonymousreply 8May 31, 2011 1:11 AM

Malcolm Gets

by Anonymousreply 9May 31, 2011 1:16 AM

Kristen Bell. They just can't stop trying to force us to like her.

by Anonymousreply 10May 31, 2011 1:22 AM

I was sure Macy Gray would be the next Tina Turner.

by Anonymousreply 11May 31, 2011 1:32 AM

Poor Karl Urban.

by Anonymousreply 12May 31, 2011 1:38 AM

Julia Stiles

by Anonymousreply 13May 31, 2011 1:39 AM

Ever since I saw Kristen Bell on Deadwood where her and her brother played thieving little con men who get brutally murdered, I only see her as a nasty little bitch with daggers for eyes.

by Anonymousreply 14May 31, 2011 1:42 AM

Jessica Simpson. She never really had that many hits as an artist and her acting career never got off the ground. Just famous for being famous these days.

by Anonymousreply 15May 31, 2011 2:52 AM

Gretchen Mol owns this thread.

by Anonymousreply 16May 31, 2011 2:58 AM

[quote]Renee Zellwegger- quick, name 3 movies she was in?;%0D %0D %0D nah, like it or not she had a pretty good career there for a while%0D %0D %0D Bridget Jones, Chicago, Jerry McGuire, an Oscar and 2 other nominations....

by Anonymousreply 17May 31, 2011 2:58 AM

Just a couple of years ago I would have said Chris Evans but it now looks like CAPTAIN AMERICA will be the movie that finally puts him over the top.

by Anonymousreply 18May 31, 2011 3:01 AM

Anyone who makes a Lifetime movie.

by Anonymousreply 19May 31, 2011 3:05 AM

Alex Pettyfer is still waiting

Jean Smart has a mantle full of Emmys and another failed sitcom under her belt (Bleep My Dad Says)

There was a time that it seemed like Michelle Stafford was moving on to bigger and better things (feature films, primetime TV shows, cosmetic deals), but her days of slumming it on daytiime show no signs of ever ending

by Anonymousreply 20May 31, 2011 3:10 AM

"Michelle Stafford"

WHO?

by Anonymousreply 21May 31, 2011 3:23 AM

Jean Smart was in "**** My Dad Says"? I never saw it, but she was featured in Hawaii 5-0 this year, so I didn't know she was in both. Jean works regularly and was never really a major star, maybe got part way there with "Designing Women" but that became much more known for Dixie and Delta. So I don't think she's expecting to headline films and TV at this stage.

I would mention pretty much the whole cast of "Party of Five" (Neve Campbell, Scott Wolf, Lacey Chabert) with possibly the exception of Matthew Fox who headlined Lost for a number of years.

by Anonymousreply 22May 31, 2011 3:26 AM

Adrian Paul was fantastic in the Highlander TV series (the movies, not so much), and I thought he had a real future. Now he's aging and his looks are fading, so it's probably never going to happen.

by Anonymousreply 23May 31, 2011 3:35 AM

Gretchen Mol and Thandie Newton OWN this thread.%0D %0D There is a real story there with Gretch.. I just HAVE to know what really happened. Maybe one day the story will come out.%0D %0D And with Thandie, I was just sure she was going to be the next Halle Berry, but that just never happened.%0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 24May 31, 2011 3:36 AM

Neve Cambell was a star at one point... weht?

by Anonymousreply 25May 31, 2011 3:37 AM

Jill Zarin

by Anonymousreply 26May 31, 2011 3:56 AM

Selma Blair. At one point pushed as the new Ali MacGraw.

by Anonymousreply 27May 31, 2011 3:56 AM

Leelee Sobieski. I can't remember another young actress who was pushed down our throats who had such a singular lack of looks, talent and charm. Well, maybe Sophia Coppola, but there was an explanation in that instance.

by Anonymousreply 28May 31, 2011 3:59 AM

Neve Campbell was everywhere in the late 90s and then she seemed to disappear overnight. Also in the late 90s, Fiona Apple was being hailed as a musical genius and was supposed to be the next superstar and then she too was gone.%0D %0D It's weird how some of them can be the It Girl (or It Boy) and get huge amounts of press for a few years and then suddenly they're just G-O-N-E.

by Anonymousreply 29May 31, 2011 4:06 AM

Michael Pare was going to be huge.

by Anonymousreply 30May 31, 2011 5:02 AM

R15: The Jessica Simpson Collection is worth over one-billion dollars.

by Anonymousreply 31May 31, 2011 5:10 AM

[quote]Fiona Apple

Who's dis bitch?

by Anonymousreply 32May 31, 2011 5:13 AM

Klinton Spilsbury

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 33May 31, 2011 10:14 AM

Skeet whatshisname

by Anonymousreply 34May 31, 2011 11:14 AM

"The Jessica Simpson Collection is worth over one-billion dollars."%0D %0D %0D Oh, please. %0D %0D %0D The only reason she became a "designer" is because her CDs don't sell and her acting career went nowhere. She wouldn't be designing ugly shoes (or hiring others to design ugly shoes for her) if her showbiz career was on fire.

by Anonymousreply 35May 31, 2011 8:00 PM

R27 made my day. "The new Ali McGraw" may be my single favorite phrase of the week.

by Anonymousreply 36May 31, 2011 8:05 PM

George Clooney

by Anonymousreply 37May 31, 2011 8:06 PM

Josh Lucas seemed like he was really going to go places....now he appears to be in supporting roles now.

by Anonymousreply 38May 31, 2011 8:07 PM

Love this thread!

Bess Armstrong is a classic case. Charming and funny, great in THE FOUR SEASONS, she should have been a star. Always seemed to "just be about to make it" but fizzled projects like the TV series ON OUR OWN and unfortunate choices like JAWS 3D derailed her career into the "never quite" category.

by Anonymousreply 39May 31, 2011 8:09 PM

[quote]Jean Smart has a mantle full of Emmys and another failed sitcom under her belt (Bleep My Dad Says)

Designing Women was a hit. By that definition she "made it". Her career might be over now, but the question wasn't who made it to the top and stayed there. It's who made it period. EVERY star comes and goes, especially the tv stars.

Mel Gibson would fit your criteria. Award winner once, flop now. Yet by definition he made it.

Lori Laughlin never made it. Neither did Jason Patric.

by Anonymousreply 40May 31, 2011 8:11 PM

Jean Smart has worked regularly even after she left DESIGNING WOMEN and has won three Emmy awards. She may not be a superstar like Jen Aniston but I'd still argue that compared to most people who are in the business, she has been quite successful.

by Anonymousreply 41May 31, 2011 8:17 PM

I always adored Rachel Ward, but I guess that Aussie hunk Bryan Brown made her realise her true destiny as a Frau.

by Anonymousreply 42May 31, 2011 8:18 PM

I'm sure Jean Smart is crying all the way to the bank. Everybody on "Designing Women" is set for life. Well, except for Dixie Carter.

by Anonymousreply 43May 31, 2011 8:19 PM

[quote]I always adored Rachel Ward, but I guess that Aussie hunk Bryan Brown made her realise her true destiny as a Frau.

Not sure everyone was convinced of her actual talent. The woman who wrote The Thorn Birds came right out and said that she was terrible.

I thought Ward was perfectly fine in it.

by Anonymousreply 44May 31, 2011 8:24 PM

A lot of the hyped 90's stars didn't make it. Ethan Embry, Peter Facinelli, Wes Bentley, Skeet Ulrich, Sarah Polley, Scott Speedman. Sarah Michelle Gellar had a good run with Buffy but never had much success in the movies. Selma Blair, all the people from American Pie, as previously stated all the Party of Five kids, all the kids from Roswell. In fact, most of the kids from those WB/CW shows fell off the face of the earth.

by Anonymousreply 45May 31, 2011 8:24 PM

All the Dawson's Creek kids were supposed to go on to be big in movies - James Van Der Beek and Joshua Jackson got a TON of hype and once DC was over, so were their careers. Katie Holmes's career stalled so she married Miss Looney-Tunes and became a rich housewife.

by Anonymousreply 46May 31, 2011 8:29 PM

The cast of American Pie - people thought they would all become the "next big thing"%0D %0D %0D %0D Except for stories about Tara Reid being a fucked-up mess...you don't hear much about them anymore.

by Anonymousreply 47May 31, 2011 8:30 PM

Sarah Michelle Gellar is another one who fits into the "made it" category. She had a HIT series that ran for six seasons. She didn't MAINTAIN her stardom, but that's not what we're talking about.

You're missing the point of personalities who almost, but never quite, made it.

by Anonymousreply 48May 31, 2011 8:30 PM

Designing Women did NOT make it past its seventh season, beyond which the set-for-life money is made, and its syndication record was terrible. So, I'd say none was set for life.

by Anonymousreply 49May 31, 2011 8:33 PM

Oh God, the Whedonettes have arrived....

by Anonymousreply 50May 31, 2011 8:35 PM

Concurrence with R45 that there was a curse involved with American Pie. Mena Suvari was the only one who ever scored a more memorable role than in those movies (in American Beauty) and even she peaked after that.

by Anonymousreply 51May 31, 2011 8:39 PM

Devon Sawa was talked about A LOT one here years ago. Never came to much though.%0D %0D %0D %0D Jonathan Schaech looked like he was about to be a star, but then sort of fizzled.%0D %0D %0D I thought Brad Rowe would have a decent career...oops.%0D %0D %0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 52May 31, 2011 8:50 PM

R35, we all should be such failures.

by Anonymousreply 53May 31, 2011 8:53 PM

R46: can you say Michelle Williams????

by Anonymousreply 54May 31, 2011 8:55 PM

"Sarah Michelle Gellar is another one who fits into the "made it" category. She had a HIT series that ran for six seasons."%0D %0D I have to disagree, only because she was supposed to be a movie star, and that stardom never materialized.%0D %0D Also--Ryan Phillipe.

by Anonymousreply 55May 31, 2011 9:00 PM

I wouldn't say Ryan Phillippe never "made it." We're talking about people who seemed to disappear after a brief hot streak. Ryan has been working steadily for many years and is still doing big-budget movies. Sure, he isn't an above-the-title leading man but he has a movie career most actors would kill for. He does alright.

by Anonymousreply 56May 31, 2011 9:04 PM

Gabrielle Anwar

Julia Stiles

by Anonymousreply 57May 31, 2011 9:11 PM

Aaron Carter.

by Anonymousreply 58May 31, 2011 9:13 PM

Jason Behr

by Anonymousreply 59May 31, 2011 9:16 PM

Jason Patric. Everyone said he was going to be the next superstar and he's now only known for once being Julia Roberts' boyfriend. No one even talks about his relationship to Jackie Gleason.

by Anonymousreply 60May 31, 2011 9:20 PM

In music, Kelly Rowland. Love her.

by Anonymousreply 61May 31, 2011 9:22 PM

R38, too many people have experienced the "real" Josh Lucas....as in, opens his mouth and a purse falls out. No doubt homophobia-wood has decided against trying to make him happen.

by Anonymousreply 62May 31, 2011 9:22 PM

Brian Bonsall

Todd Bridges

Andrew Dice Clay

Lane Garrison (Prison Break star who got drunk and killed people in a car crash ending his career)

Tracey Gold

Corey Haim

Margot Kidder

Ralph Macchio

Chris Makepeace

Brigitte Neilsen

Bronson Pinchot (did he make it?)

Tom Sizemore

Tina Yothers

Jaleel White (Erkel)

Lark Vorhees

Max Wright (the dad on ALF) National Enquirer posted an expose on Wright after acquiring homemade sex tapes showing Wright having smoking crack and having gay sex with a random homeless man he had literally just met.

Scott Schwartz (the kid from A Christmas Story, went on to do straight porn)

Jonathan Taylor Thomas (the younger kid on Home Improvement)

Zachery Ty Bryan (the older kid on Home Improvement)

by Anonymousreply 63May 31, 2011 9:24 PM

At least in the U.S., Robbie Williams.

by Anonymousreply 64May 31, 2011 9:25 PM

[quote]Devon Sawa was talked about A LOT one here years ago. Never came to much though.

Rumored to be Jonathan Taylor Thomas's ex-lover.

by Anonymousreply 65May 31, 2011 9:25 PM

[quote]Designing Women did NOT make it past its seventh season, beyond which the set-for-life money is made, and its syndication record was terrible. I thought 3 seasons was the magic number. Anyone in the business, can you comment?

by Anonymousreply 66May 31, 2011 9:31 PM

Mark Cuban should have made port, gay or straight, he would have been a "huge" star!

by Anonymousreply 67May 31, 2011 9:49 PM

Ironically, the Over 40 Crowd from American Beauty (Bening, Spacey, Chris Cooper) all became genuine long-term successes and either became repeat Oscar nominees, like Bening, or Oscar winners, like Cooper and Spacey. Cooper may never be a household name but he's never lacked for work.%0D %0D In contrast, the hot young talent, who seemed headed for major stardom, all fizzled: Wes Bentley, Thora Birch, Mena Suvari. Young, cute, and critically acclaimed, and with a surprise hit and Best Picture winner under their belts, yet they all stumbled. %0D %0D It shows the early bird doesn't always catch the worm. Bening didn't even have a movie career at all till she was over 30, and three of her four Oscar noms didn't happen till she was over 40, yet at this rate Bentley, Birch, and Suvari are never going to catch up to her despite landing a huge break at a mere 20 years of age or so.

by Anonymousreply 68May 31, 2011 9:50 PM

The mere fact any of these people are known is rare in itself.%0D %0D Becoming a successful "celebrity" is as rare as winning the lottery. So the fact they got any recognition is a feat in itself.

by Anonymousreply 69May 31, 2011 9:53 PM

(Sorry, I'm not R4, meant to write a post in another thread but deleted it.) %0D %0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 70May 31, 2011 9:55 PM

MArgot Kidder made it! %0D %0D Shit, she was in two successful "Superman" movies as well as the original "Amityville Horror" which was the highest grossing movie of its year.%0D %0D She's also a renowned actress well known for her roles in "Sisters" and "Black x-mas" among many others. %0D %0D Don't hand me that horseshit that she didn't make it! Please.

by Anonymousreply 71May 31, 2011 9:55 PM

Sorry Margot.

by Anonymousreply 72May 31, 2011 9:58 PM

R67, even if Mark Cuban *had* bottled his own delicious dessert wine, I don't see how that would make him a celebrity.

by Anonymousreply 73May 31, 2011 10:00 PM

(R60) just wait till those naked pictures of Jason Patric and Jackie Gleason together hit the internet, people will talk then. Julia Roberts has been holding on to them until her kids turn 18, then the tabloids will sizzle ! That's the real reason Julia dumped Jason; he was a chubby chaser who couldn't keep his hands off Gleason.

by Anonymousreply 74May 31, 2011 10:03 PM

Eric Balfour

Jay Hernandez

LOTS of black celebrities with A-List potential that havent "made it"

Nia Long

David Alan Grier

Mekhi Phifer

Tracee Ellis Ross

by Anonymousreply 75May 31, 2011 10:04 PM

Joshua Jackson is on "Fringe" now.

Whether you like it or not, Jessica Simpson's fashion empire brings in a billion dollars a year, and she rakes in a tenth of that as a licensing fee. So it hardly makes a difference to her that she hasn't had long-term success in the entertainment business.

by Anonymousreply 76May 31, 2011 10:05 PM

Dawn Lyn!

by Anonymousreply 77May 31, 2011 10:42 PM

Leigh McCloskey.

by Anonymousreply 78May 31, 2011 10:49 PM

Kimberly Elise%0D %0D Vivica Fox%0D %0D Mandy Moore%0D %0D Luke Wilson%0D %0D Poppy Montgomery%0D

by Anonymousreply 79May 31, 2011 10:50 PM

Keri Russell%0D %0D Stacy Dash%0D %0D Rachel Blanchard%0D %0D Mark Valley%0D %0D Krista Allen%0D %0D Nick Kamen%0D %0D Malcolm Jamahl Warner%0D

by Anonymousreply 80May 31, 2011 10:54 PM

I'm surprised no one has mentioned Luke Perry yet. He was THE It Boy of the early 90s - the Taylor Lautner of his day.. This guy was hyped to hell and back as the second coming of James Dean and was given a huge PR push the be the next big movie star. After 90210 ended, he fell off the radar and is virtually forgotten now.

by Anonymousreply 81May 31, 2011 10:54 PM

R81, Good observation. All the 90291 cast were going to be huge stars and Luke was especially hyped in the media. I remember this also as I was always more attracted to Canadian Jason Priestly who is still hot as is blonde Ian Ziering.

by Anonymousreply 82May 31, 2011 11:07 PM

Jason Patric: Grandson of legendary actor Jackie Gleason.

by Anonymousreply 83May 31, 2011 11:10 PM

The comparison between Perry and Lautner is apt, as both are/were terrible actors.

by Anonymousreply 84May 31, 2011 11:49 PM

I actually think Pattinson may be a better comparison to Luke Perry. Both are supposed to be brooding and intense and both were/are stupidly compared to James Dean. Are yes, both are as animated as a block of wood.

Taylor Lautner=Jason Priestly. The so called responsible, good boy. Slightly less popular with fangirls.

Kristen Stewart is Shannon Doherty. Her nasty attitude, like Shannon, will get her nowhere quickly.

Orlando Bloom is another heartthrob who came off Lord of the Rings to do some middling movies. He's still around, but he hasn't really done much in years. Another actor who couldn't make it out of a massive franchise is Hayden Christensen.

Sienna Miller was supposed to be the IT girl around 2004-2005, now you don't hear much from her.

Christina Ricci is another indie darling. Now she's gone to TV because the movie roles just aren't happening.

Michael Vartan from Alias has done nothing in years.

by Anonymousreply 85June 1, 2011 12:01 AM

Michael Vartan is Hot! 1/2 french..

by Anonymousreply 86June 1, 2011 12:06 AM

Seann William Scott

by Anonymousreply 87June 1, 2011 12:08 AM

Heather Graham. She was supposed to be BIG and, no pun intended, should have blown up after BOOGIE NIGHTS.%0D %0D And how could anyone forget Julia Ormond? Hers and Gretchen Mol's build-ups by the press were painful to behold.

by Anonymousreply 88June 1, 2011 12:20 AM

Fairuza Balk and Robin Tunney from the Craft

Jordana Brewster

Josh Hartnett

Heather Matarazzo

by Anonymousreply 89June 1, 2011 12:21 AM

Everybody from the OC. They all thought they were going to be movie stars.

Megan Fox was supposed to be the hot girl, the next Angelina, but all her movies have bombed.

by Anonymousreply 90June 1, 2011 12:25 AM

In all fairness to Fairuza she's spoken about how being too ethnic has limited her being cast in different things.

Megan Fox, OTOH completely fucked up her face, poor thing.

by Anonymousreply 91June 1, 2011 12:34 AM

Rose McGowan

by Anonymousreply 92June 1, 2011 12:38 AM

Fairuza Balk and Robin Tunney steal scenese from anything they are cast in. Fairuza was downright chilling as Edward Norton's unyielding neo-Nazi girlfriend in "American History X" and Robin stole "Hollywoodland" from under Adrien Brody, Diane lane and Ben Affleck.

by Anonymousreply 93June 1, 2011 12:52 AM

Malcolm Gets has a substantial career in live theater.

by Anonymousreply 94June 1, 2011 12:55 AM

Casper Van Dien.

Sad. He has one of the best asses in film history.

by Anonymousreply 95June 1, 2011 12:58 AM

Lucie Arnaz

Rosyln Kind

Lorna Luft

Minnie Driver

Parker Posey

Kathy Baker

lots of child actors, and adults with supporting roles, went from Top Ten tv series to 0.

by Anonymousreply 96June 1, 2011 1:29 AM

Kathy Baker has worked steadily for decades, and has an Oscar. She's still doing fine a character actress, while most of her contemporaries are stalking plastic surgeons and dreaming of one last chance at a comeback.%0D %0D She's done just fine.

by Anonymousreply 97June 1, 2011 1:34 AM

[quote]Kathy Baker has worked steadily for decades, and has an Oscar

Do you mean Kathy Bates? Kathy Baker has several Emmys for Picket Fences and is a wonderful actress.

by Anonymousreply 98June 1, 2011 1:38 AM

I think you're thinking of Kathy Bates. Kathy Baker doesn't have an Oscar, does she?

by Anonymousreply 99June 1, 2011 1:41 AM

Yes, I was thinking of Kathy Bates, who doesn't belong on this thread.

by Anonymousreply 100June 1, 2011 1:43 AM

Kathy Baker *should* have gotten an Oscar nom for "Edward Scissorhands". She was a despicable wolf-crying slut in it.

by Anonymousreply 101June 1, 2011 1:46 AM

[quote] I thought Brad Rowe would have a decent career...oops.

That was my first thought, too. I saw him this weekend on an rerun of Criminal Minds and he was looking rough, especially around the chin(s) area.

[quote] Michael Vartan from Alias has done nothing in years.

He's a regular on Mrs. Will Smith's TNT show.

by Anonymousreply 102June 1, 2011 1:48 AM

I don't like Jessica Simpson but apparently her fashion line does very well.

by Anonymousreply 103June 1, 2011 1:50 AM

Parker Posey never hit the A-List but she definitely made her mark and left behind a strong body of work that will stand the test of time.

by Anonymousreply 104June 1, 2011 1:51 AM

"So it hardly makes a difference to her that she hasn't had long-term success in the entertainment business."%0D %0D %0D Please, she'd sell her soul to get back in the spotlight. She's over. %0D %0D %0D I think the people who keep defending her are all her family members - Papa Joe, is that you? Who else would slobber over that has-been bimbo?%0D %0D I doubt her "fashion" makes a billion dollars a year, either - that is probably an exaggerated figure.

by Anonymousreply 105June 1, 2011 2:16 AM

Matt Keeslar was my fantasy boyfriend in the late 90s and he got a promising start in indie films and a couple high-profile TV movies, but unfortunately his career never took off. A shame, because he really could act and he was so hot.%0D %0D This is a fun thread.

Offsite Link
by Anonymousreply 106June 1, 2011 2:40 AM

I think most of the original cast of MadTV deserve better careers. Debra Wilson was funny as hell.

by Anonymousreply 107June 1, 2011 2:48 AM

Richard Greico certainly expected to have at least 1/10th of Johnny Depp's career. Never happened.

by Anonymousreply 108June 1, 2011 2:54 AM

And I'm sure it pissed him the fuck off, R108, considering he and Depp were rumored to have not gotten along during their stint on 21 JUMP STREET (Depp was reportedly a nice guy and Grieco was said to have been a major asshole).

by Anonymousreply 109June 1, 2011 3:13 AM

Grieco was just in one of those awful Syfy movies. I only know this because they were making fun of it on The Soup.

by Anonymousreply 110June 1, 2011 3:22 AM

Gillian Anderson

Sarah Brown

Amy Jo Johnson

Alexis Beledel

Jonathan Jackson

Navi Rawat

by Anonymousreply 111June 1, 2011 3:40 AM

Nicole Scherzinger. She may finally become a "big name" when the X-Factor starts, but she has been working on a solo album for four years now. Her first five singles flopped.%0D %0D Yeah its called Karma shes a bitch & got that guy fired from x factor.%0D %0D She'll never be a star . Shes has no it factor unless shes a package deal.%0D %0D She'll never make it solo.

by Anonymousreply 112June 1, 2011 4:37 AM

Tea Leoni. In the mid 90s she had a sitcom designed around her to promote her as the next Lucille Ball, only sexy. Leoni's had a decent career, but the comedy angle never panned out.

by Anonymousreply 113June 1, 2011 4:49 AM

When "Star Search" first came on, it was the "American Idol" of its day, and the first big star to come out of it was a young queen named Sam Harris. Since the show was all about last week's winner taking on a new challenger each week, Harris was on there for months and gained a following for his version of "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" (Mary!).

He was a very familiar name for a few months, and people expected a great, long career. Today it's Sam Who?

by Anonymousreply 114June 1, 2011 4:51 AM

Theresa Russell

by Anonymousreply 115June 1, 2011 5:03 AM

R107, I agree with you. It is criminal that Debra Wilson is not a bigger star. Such a talented artist! Even Stephanie Weir and Nicole Parker are hilarious, and yet we continue to be subjected to the likes of Chelsea Handler and the horribly unfunny and stupid Whitney Cummings.

by Anonymousreply 116June 1, 2011 5:11 AM

Michael Biehn.

by Anonymousreply 117June 1, 2011 5:19 AM

The patron saint of Datalounge, Patricia "I loves me some gays" Heaton

by Anonymousreply 118June 1, 2011 5:32 AM

They weren't celebrities but a bunch of female singers that appeared regularly on "The Tonight Show" were relegated to concert/cabaret fame. Jane Olivor, Kelly Garrett (not the Charlie's Angel), Helen Schneider, Donna Theodore, Julie Budd.

by Anonymousreply 119June 1, 2011 5:34 AM

we slept in the same bed but we never "made" it

by Anonymousreply 120June 1, 2011 5:36 AM

[quote]Yeah its called Karma shes a bitch & got that guy fired from x factor.

Really? Since you know what you're talking about, which guy did Nicole get fired from X Factor?

by Anonymousreply 121June 1, 2011 4:59 PM

It wasn't a guy, it was Cheryl Cole aka Cheryl Curl.

by Anonymousreply 122June 1, 2011 5:04 PM

It was Corbin Bleu who was supposed to be a co-host with Nicole Scherzinger on "X Factor" but she alledgedly walked off the set upon seeing him mumbling something like "what are you, 15???" SHe was not slated to be a judge - Nicole was supposed to merely co-host the show.

by Anonymousreply 123June 1, 2011 5:20 PM

Michael Parks was supposed to be the next James Dean. Good call on Theresa Russell [R15]. %0D %0D %0D %0D %0D %0D %0D %0D %0D %0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 124June 1, 2011 6:45 PM

Kate Nelligan%0D %0D Paula Prentiss%0D %0D Diana Canova (no, I am not the Diana Canova troll)%0D %0D %0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 125June 1, 2011 7:20 PM

Mimi Rogers aka the 1st Mrs. Tammy Cruise

by Anonymousreply 126June 1, 2011 7:41 PM

Jai Rodriguez!

by Anonymousreply 127June 1, 2011 7:49 PM

Whatsername. The green one.

by Anonymousreply 128June 1, 2011 7:52 PM

Luke Perry was almost the next big, brooding Hollywood bad boy (8 Seconds, anyone?)--and then "Thelma & Louise" was released and Brad Pitt happened.

Steve Zahn was thisclose to having the career now enjoyed by Jack Black and Zach Galifanakis.

The gorgeous Vincent Spano had a string of high-profile roles from the mid-80s to about the early-90s, but never quite took off (I often confused him with Nicholas Cage--that might have been the problem).

The 1988 indie film "Spike of Bensonhurst" was supposed to make Sasha Mitchell a star--never happened.

Same with Loren Dean and "Billy Bathgate".

by Anonymousreply 129June 1, 2011 8:12 PM

Good examples, R129. But while they were incredibly attractive, Sasha Mitchell and Loren Dean were terrible actors. Spano, Zahn (who is a gifted comedian), and even Perry had more ability.

by Anonymousreply 130June 1, 2011 8:20 PM

Skeet Ulrich

by Anonymousreply 131June 1, 2011 8:50 PM

Ethan Hawke.

by Anonymousreply 132June 1, 2011 8:53 PM

Lolita Davidovich%0D %0D Mamie Van Doren%0D %0D Christopher Atkins%0D %0D Mark Hamill (should have been an A-lister, chose a theater career as a replacement for stars instead)%0D %0D Genevieve Bujold%0D %0D Gina Lollobrigida%0D %0D Zsa Zsa Gabor%0D %0D Lorenzo Lamas%0D %0D Didi Cohn%0D %0D ... and Sharon Stone%0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 133June 1, 2011 9:09 PM

Today is Diana Canova's birthday R125t%0D %0D She is doing well and is on Facebook. %0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 134June 1, 2011 9:36 PM

I think I'm the only person who still remembers Dana Ashbrook. He was "the cute one" on Twin Peaks and got a fair amount of PR during that show's run and then he disappeared as soon as it was over.

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by Anonymousreply 135June 1, 2011 9:42 PM

Tom Everett Scott. Still hot when he did a few guest spots on L&O as the governor. He should have shown more skin in his earlier movies.

Dana Ashbrook still looks good. He was on the Psych episode with all the Twin Peaks people. Agree that he kinda disappeared and should have been bigger.

by Anonymousreply 136June 1, 2011 9:54 PM

Cast of "The Blair Witch Project".

by Anonymousreply 137June 1, 2011 10:01 PM

Come to think of it, everybody on Twin Peaks didn't really "make it" except for David Duchovny, and even he was over after the enormous success of the X-Files.%0D %0D The entire cast was all over the media for a couple of years because the show was such a phenomenon and while some of them like Kyle Maclachlan and Lara Flynn Boyle got more work after it was over, none of them lived up to the hype they got.

by Anonymousreply 138June 2, 2011 1:49 AM

[quote]Mark Hamill (should have been an A-lister, chose a theater career as a replacement for stars instead)%0D %0D I remember hearing it was a car crash that derailed Hamill's shot at stardom. He was supposedly cast as the oldest brother in Eight is Enough (not that that sounds so great) but had to bow out due to the damage to his face. Really - he has a theater career?%0D %0D Another one: Dennis Christopher, star of the critical and popular hit Breaking Away. Had a starring role in the creepy Fade to Black after that but nothing much else really. His co-star Dennis Quaid meanwhile really made it. Anyway sometime in the last decade D.C. appeared full frontal in a low budget film and damn, the guy is hung like a horse.%0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 139June 2, 2011 2:01 AM

Nicole Scherzinger already has it made - her boyfriend is the Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton. She'll be set for life if she drags him to the altar.

by Anonymousreply 140June 2, 2011 2:28 AM

Whatever did happen to Thora Birch? I just watched "Ghost World" and it's funny that her co-star Scarlett Johanssen is now A-list and Thora has completely disappeared.

by Anonymousreply 141June 2, 2011 2:42 AM

Gillian Anderson moved to the UK to be a 'serious' actress, and has a pretty successful career as a respected British stage and screen actress. Not everyone wants the kind of fame Hollywood offers.

by Anonymousreply 142June 2, 2011 9:36 AM

Robin Tunney was in Hollywoodland? I've seen it twice and don't even recall her in it.

by Anonymousreply 143June 2, 2011 10:07 AM

Emmy Rossum

by Anonymousreply 144June 2, 2011 10:10 AM

Ethan Hawke has two Oscar nominations. He's made it.

and Mark Hamill was never gonna be an A Lister. Not good looking. Can't act.

by Anonymousreply 145June 2, 2011 10:14 AM

Dana Ashbrook is old looking now.

by Anonymousreply 146June 2, 2011 10:15 AM

Three from TV--%0D %0D Heidi Bohay%0D %0D Sian Barbara Allen, or whatever her name is.%0D %0D Kathleen Beller

by Anonymousreply 147June 2, 2011 12:30 PM

Matt Keeslar and Steve Zahn are two of the biggest mysteries on all of these posts.%0D %0D What more do you want, Hollywood???%0D %0D And thank you to whoever posted that glorious photo of Matt!

by Anonymousreply 148June 2, 2011 12:49 PM

Jonathan Schaech would never have 'made it.' Although sexy, he came across as sour and really unlikable.

by Anonymousreply 149June 2, 2011 2:00 PM

OP, trying to be like Branson or Jobs???? Those guys are originals. No wonder no one knows who this guy is.

by Anonymousreply 150June 2, 2011 2:28 PM

Matt Keeslar is fat now, apparently. Which is tragic.%0D %0D Steve Zahn still looks good. He should find a TV series.

by Anonymousreply 151June 2, 2011 2:33 PM

[quote]Steve Zahn still looks good. He should find a TV series.

Definitely, R151. I'd watch it. He was hilarious and very sweet as Monk's half-brother.

by Anonymousreply 152June 2, 2011 3:05 PM

Isn't Zahn in "Treme"?

by Anonymousreply 153June 2, 2011 3:13 PM

I think Mark Hamill's car crash happened in between Star Wars and the filming of "Empire Strikes Back."

He looks different...

by Anonymousreply 154June 2, 2011 3:21 PM

Keeslar was cute but always seemed detached and removed-he would never have been able to make a true connection with the audience.

by Anonymousreply 155June 2, 2011 3:23 PM

[quote]Matt Keeslar is fat now, apparently. Which is tragic%0D %0D He's not fat, just a little chubby. His last best role was in "Last Days Of Disco".

by Anonymousreply 156June 2, 2011 3:27 PM

Leelee Sobieski! I think what killed any career she had was going on the Tonight Show (or something similar) and reciting one of her "poems". OMFG! Howard Stern plays it to this day, it's cringe-inducing and thus absolutely hilarious!!

by Anonymousreply 157June 2, 2011 4:02 PM

Steve Zahn was hysterical as the redneck prison escapee, along with Jeremy Northam, in Happy, TX.

by Anonymousreply 158June 2, 2011 4:10 PM

There's that, R157, and the fact that she was full of pretension and a shitty actress. That poem was about 9/11.

by Anonymousreply 159June 2, 2011 4:10 PM

Perhaps she'll recite it yet again in the new CBS series THE 2-2, R157. She's playing a cop. Seriously. DeNiro is producing it.

by Anonymousreply 160June 2, 2011 4:13 PM

Kit McDonough should have been a big star!

by Anonymousreply 161June 2, 2011 4:17 PM

Don't forget me,fellas..%0D %0D Barbara Anderson...%0D %0D %0D who?%0D %0D exactly!

by Anonymousreply 162June 2, 2011 4:39 PM

I think Mark Hamil had his bad car crash in between New Hope and Empire. During that time, CBS produced the very regrettable Star Wars Christmas Special. This video quality isn't great but you can tell there is something wrong with Mark Hamil's face. I think he's covered with make up to the point where he looks almost feminine.

Some of you guys have seen this abomination posted here on DL before. For those of you who haven't, it's fascinating. The special stars Diane Carol, Art Carney, Harvey Corman (doing drag), and DL fav...Bea Arthur! Yes, it's as bad as early 80's made-for-TV can be!

The best part is you get to see Carrie Fisher literally stumbling drunk/high.

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by Anonymousreply 163June 2, 2011 4:40 PM

Steve Zahn also gave a very effective & moving dramatic performance in Rescue Dawn, opposite Christian Bale. he does have real dramatic chops, but unfortunately nobody saw the movie.%0D %0D so often it's just down to luck and timing. if Hollywood had chosen to push Rescue Dawn as Bale's big Oscar movie, rather than The Fighter a couple years later, Zahn could have ridden the hype train to his own Oscar nod.

by Anonymousreply 164June 2, 2011 10:04 PM

Rescue Dawn came before the Dark Knight. The Fighter came after. If you've already got a reputation as a serious actor it helps you win an Oscar if you have some huge blockbuster. Also The Fighter did a lot better at the box office than Rescue Dawn.

by Anonymousreply 165June 2, 2011 10:10 PM

Martin Hewitt %0D %0D Marthe Keller%0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 166June 2, 2011 10:57 PM

Marilyn Hassett %0D %0D Francoise Hardy%0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 167June 2, 2011 11:00 PM

R85 and R89 are right on the money. I mean, Josh Hartnett was supposed to be the next Tom Cruise.

But alas, Gretchen Mol (she did VOGUE!) owns this thread and all of it's offspring. What a major disappointment she turned out to be.

Anna Wintour could not make her a star, and now she's aggressively pushing Blake Lively in the same manner.

by Anonymousreply 168June 2, 2011 11:48 PM

R141, nothing that ScarJo has done or will do can ever compare to Thora's memorable role as Dany in "Hocus Pocus". Seriously.

by Anonymousreply 169June 2, 2011 11:51 PM

I thought Jeff Fahey was going to be the next big sexy leading man. He is a busy actor, but I haven't seen much of anything he's done in years.

by Anonymousreply 170June 3, 2011 12:08 AM

Guy Pearce%0D %0D Goran Vi%C5%A1nji%C4%87%0D %0D Olga Kurylenko%0D %0D Eric Bana%0D %0D Maria Bello%0D %0D Jennifer Esposito%0D %0D Joanna Going%0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 171June 3, 2011 12:15 AM

[quote]Gillian Anderson

Gillian has the career she wants. She'll get X-Files residuals for the rest of her life.

by Anonymousreply 172June 3, 2011 12:23 AM

I'll say Robin Wright if no one else has. If someone has, well then I second (third, whatever) it.

by Anonymousreply 173June 3, 2011 12:29 AM

r29, it's not weird at all. Fame does a lot to a person's psyche. Some people don't thrive on it as much as others... I'd have to say Linda Darnell never made to the big leagues, which is sad because she was great.

by Anonymousreply 174June 3, 2011 12:57 AM

Is Joanna Going still in show biz?

by Anonymousreply 175June 3, 2011 2:29 AM

Colton Haynes.

by Anonymousreply 176June 3, 2011 2:39 AM

Robin Wright turned a lot of A list roles. She never was interested in being a big star. Instead she did a lot of smaller movies. Robin Wright is now 45 and have a lot of roles (The Conspirator is in theathers, she'll be in Moneyball &Rampart &Dragon Tattoo and The Congress) I think she doesn't belong to this list

by Anonymousreply 177June 3, 2011 2:52 AM

Jenna Elfman. Yes, she had a few years on "Dharma and Greg", but that was to be her springboard to being the next "zany comedienne" a la Lucy or Carole Burnett.

Aaaand, WHET Jenna"

by Anonymousreply 178June 3, 2011 3:02 AM

Jenna Elfman was so fucking annoying.

by Anonymousreply 179June 3, 2011 3:12 AM

Talking about Heathers in another thread, I thought Christian Slater would do something after the hits he had in the 80's/early 90's, but he was replaced by the likes of Brad Pitt/Johnny Depp and other early 90's heartthrobs.

by Anonymousreply 180June 3, 2011 2:41 PM

Okay I'm not sure this guy qualifies as a "celebrity" but my vote goes to John Paragon. I guess he's best known for playing the Genie on Pee-wee's Playhouse. But he had some memorable bit parts in 80's movies - especially the sex show owner in Eating Raoul. I also saw him perform at the Groundlings in the very early 80's and he was absolutely brilliant - I'm talking "this guy is going to be huge" brilliant. More talented in my opinion than Phil Hartman and Paul Reubens - and I saw them perform on the same stage.

by Anonymousreply 181June 4, 2011 4:52 AM

I've seen Gabrielle Anwar and Robin Tunney in this thread and I'd have to disagree. Both of them are on top rated shows (Burn Notice and The Mentalist respectively).

by Anonymousreply 182June 4, 2011 4:56 AM

Funny you said that, R181. I've never personally seen John Paragon perform, but two friends of mine did years and years ago and they both said he was hugely talented and should have been a big star.

by Anonymousreply 183June 4, 2011 5:20 AM

There was an article several years ago in the LA Times (I think) that talked about the Groundlings and there's was so much praise for Paragon - Julia Sweeney said something like "If success were measured by talent, John Paragon should be Jim Carey"and Kathy Griffin called him the quickest, most charismatic performer she'd ever seen. Here's a link to his great scene from Eating Raoul:

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by Anonymousreply 184June 4, 2011 5:35 AM

Lola Albright%0D Liz phair%0D Yahoo Serious

by Anonymousreply 185June 4, 2011 6:36 AM

WHO IS BUDDY HUDSON?

by Anonymousreply 186June 4, 2011 7:06 AM

speaking of Christina Applegate...%0D %0D She used to date Brad Pitt and She ditched him when they attended the mtv awards after-party for another guy.

by Anonymousreply 187June 4, 2011 8:09 AM

[quote]Neve Campbell was everywhere in the late 90s and then she seemed to disappear overnight.

So, she "made it" in the 90s. OP asked for celebs who never made it.

by Anonymousreply 188June 4, 2011 8:14 AM

Jasmine Guy

Lisa Bonet

by Anonymousreply 189June 4, 2011 1:53 PM

John Paragon was the subject of his own thread here a couple of years ago. I think he and Paul Reubens were a couple at some point. Most of his HBO comedy/variety special is on YT now.

Paragon of Comedy

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by Anonymousreply 190June 4, 2011 2:03 PM

R187, when did Christina Applegate and Brad Pitt date?

by Anonymousreply 191June 4, 2011 2:36 PM

Can You Believe They Dated?

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by Anonymousreply 192June 4, 2011 2:51 PM

I'm the last person in the world who thought they'd be defending Jessica Simpson, but New York magazine did a cover story on her fashion empire, and yes, it is a billion dollar business.

Somebody listed Genevieve Bujold. Really, you don't think she made it? Ridiculous. She had tons of high-profile roles from the '60s through the '80s. Just because she got old doesn't mean she didn't have a successful career.

by Anonymousreply 193June 4, 2011 2:58 PM

Every young actor on every TV series right now thinks they'll end up winning an Oscar. Most will never be heard from again once the show ends.

by Anonymousreply 194June 4, 2011 3:05 PM

Julia Roberts.

by Anonymousreply 195June 4, 2011 3:40 PM

Thandie is still working hard and being signed to decent projets. I think she has done some oscar worthy roles. She's underated but, has made it. %0D %0D Heather Graham-was way big in the ninetys. Seems around the time of the ending with her relationship with Heath Ledger. Her career feel off. I wouldn't say she didn't make it.%0D %0D %0D Sarah Polley-Never wanted A-list another Rachel McAdams. Very strong body of work and can still get plenty of work. %0D %0D Natasha Gregson Wagner%0D %0D Natasha Lyonne%0D %0D Tara Reid %0D %0D Dominque Swain%0D %0D Rachel True%0D %0D Bijou Phillips%0D %0D Michsel Pitt%0D %0D Nick Stahl%0D %0D Sienna Miller- Never understood the hype%0D %0D Gretchen Mol- Who? Don't even recognize her.%0D %0D The blonde that played in along came a spider- Remember they were calling her the next Sandy Bullock?%0D %0D Sean William Scott%0D %0D Half or most of the cast from American Pie. %0D %0D Chris Klein who??%0D %0D

by Anonymousreply 196June 4, 2011 8:53 PM

Forgot Josh Hartnett.

by Anonymousreply 197June 4, 2011 9:21 PM

Christopher Jones ("Wild In the Streets") was supposed to be Dean, Clift, and Brando all rolled up into one; even David Lean bought the hype and just HAD to cast him in "Ryan's Daughter", where he annoyed the hell out of his costar Sarah Miles (he took his "brooding rebel" image seriously, and Sarah got sick of his whining) It was only recently revealed that Jones was so bad that Lean had the entire performance dubbed over. He gave a rare interview for Movieline about 15 years ago, and seemed very bitter and angry. He's refused several offers to work with Quentin Tarantino.

by Anonymousreply 198June 5, 2011 3:04 AM

R187, who is the "other guy" they attended the after party for? I guess Brad Pitt should blame him for their breakup.

by Anonymousreply 199June 5, 2011 3:13 AM

Christina Applegate is proof positive that a whore can find redemption in her later years. She gleefully fucked anything with two legs and she was a major druggie. Now she's all reformed and shit. I still don't understand how come she and Gwyneth Paltrow are such good friends (when they shared Brad Pitt) and her and Winona Ryder hate each other (when they shared Jonny Depp).

by Anonymousreply 200June 5, 2011 3:27 AM

two comments: thought Sobeilski (sp?) was a dominatrix in NYC; and Jean Smart was terrific as Aileen Wuornos, the serial killer that Charlize Theron played and for which she won an oscar. I think Jean Smart's portrayal was the better one - it's chilling. Less "ugly" makeup and more acting. If you get a chance to see it, do. Sobeelski? whatever ..... dominatrix.

by Anonymousreply 201June 5, 2011 3:38 AM

The blonde is Monica Potter R196. You're spot on. She was touted as the next Julia Roberts and then just did not happen. She's popped up again on TV.

by Anonymousreply 202June 5, 2011 3:41 AM

Craig Sheffer comes to mind

by Anonymousreply 203June 5, 2011 3:51 AM

Thanks for the info, R192 and 200. I never knew all of those details about Christina Applegate.

by Anonymousreply 204June 5, 2011 4:46 PM

what can we conclude, then? it doesn't pay to hype and market your client to death as "the next... fill in the blank." %0D %0D Monica Potter: "the next Julia Roberts!"%0D %0D Christopher Jones: "the next James Dean!"%0D %0D Brad Rowe: "the next Brad Pitt!"%0D %0D Don't sell them as the latest model of a superstar, it doesnt work.

by Anonymousreply 205June 6, 2011 12:13 AM

It seems that Winona Ryder is hated by all of her peers in the industry. You always hear shit about how nobody can stand her.

by Anonymousreply 206June 6, 2011 12:34 AM

-The Olsen Twins. Sure they were famous when they were kids, but you really don't hear much about them now.

-Hilary Duff

-Frankie Muniz

Haley Joel Osment. What has he done since the Sixth Sense?

by Anonymousreply 207June 6, 2011 12:52 AM

[quote]They weren't celebrities but a bunch of female singers that appeared regularly on "The Tonight Show" were relegated to concert/cabaret fame. Jane Olivor, Kelly Garrett (not the Charlie's Angel), Helen Schneider, Donna Theodore, Julie Budd.

*Clears throat loudly*

by Anonymousreply 208June 6, 2011 12:57 AM

Raven Symone, definitely. Disney channel, a career that spans many years, and she still quite never made it. Her music career was a huge flop.

by Anonymousreply 209June 6, 2011 12:58 AM

Emily Lloyd

Michael Sarazin

Brad Renfro

Rodney Harvey

Brooke Adams

by Anonymousreply 210June 6, 2011 1:00 AM

Phoebe Cates

by Anonymousreply 211June 6, 2011 1:02 AM

I think that some of you are missing the point of this thread.%0D %0D Persons like Hilary Duff, Frankie Muniz,Raven Symone MADE it! They were very successful and recognizable.%0D %0D Their careers may have gone down, but it does not take away from their prior successes.

by Anonymousreply 212June 6, 2011 1:13 AM

It's true that Michael Sarrazin didn't stay high profile as long as he deserved (in my opinion, anyway), but he had a really good run for 10 or 12 years and was a working actor pretty much up to his death. That's more than can be said for a lot of people on this list. I miss him.

by Anonymousreply 213June 6, 2011 1:18 AM

[quote]Persons like Hilary Duff, Frankie Muniz,Raven Symone MADE it! They were very successful and recognizable.

True. But Raven and Hillary "made it" as child stars but havent "made it" as adult stars yet, like so many of their peers.

by Anonymousreply 214June 6, 2011 1:32 AM

[quote]Haley Joel Osment. What has he done since the Sixth Sense?%0D %0D Recieved an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor%0D %0D Starred in Steven Spielberg's A.I. Artificial Intelligence%0D %0D Appeared on Broadway in the play American Buffalo%0D %0D How can you say he never "made it"?

by Anonymousreply 215June 6, 2011 1:38 AM

If I was Raven Symone's management, I would tell her to cool it with the Disney/ABC Family projects and try to get her an audition to join the cast of SNL.

It'd probably require a pay cut, but it's probably the only way the likes of her will be able to transition into a grownup career. Plus Keenan could finally stop playing all black women.

by Anonymousreply 216June 6, 2011 1:56 AM

r216 I think Raven is even too talented for that sinking ship SNL. She could definitely carry a network sitcom with a great cast around her, it'll probably happen for her soon.

by Anonymousreply 217June 6, 2011 2:08 AM

I actually like that idea, R216.

by Anonymousreply 218June 6, 2011 2:08 AM

[quote] Monica Potter: "the next Julia Roberts!"

I think that was her problem. She looked and sounded exactly like Julia Roberts. She was like a $10 Gucci bag you'd buy in Times Square.

by Anonymousreply 219June 6, 2011 2:38 AM

-Juliette Lewis

-Rene Russo

by Anonymousreply 220June 6, 2011 2:49 AM

Rene Russo was one of the first supermodels before she went into acting. Even at her later age, she did better than most models at a second career.

by Anonymousreply 221June 6, 2011 2:57 AM

Isn't Raven Symone super rich? I'm not saying that matter is this thread, just wondering.

by Anonymousreply 222June 6, 2011 3:18 AM

Yes, R222, Raven Symone's personal worth is over $50 million. Her business ventures are in the hundreds of millions.

by Anonymousreply 223June 6, 2011 3:27 AM

-Jaleel White

-Tara Reid

- Chris Klein

by Anonymousreply 224June 6, 2011 5:09 AM

[all posts by tedious troll removed.]

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by Anonymousreply 225June 1, 2013 7:36 PM

[all posts by tedious troll removed.]

by Anonymousreply 226June 1, 2013 11:19 PM

[all posts by tedious troll removed.]

by Anonymousreply 227June 2, 2013 1:17 AM

Jessica: belting.

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by Anonymousreply 228June 2, 2013 3:31 AM

Both Keri Russell and the Olsen Twins decided to walk away from Hollywood after their series ended. Keri's back in "The Americans", and the Olsen Twins have so much money, they never need to work again.

Martin Henderson.

As much as it pains me to say it, Sam Rockwell and Ben Foster- both really talented guys who were on the cusp.

by Anonymousreply 229June 2, 2013 2:31 PM

If no one's mentioned her, Sharon Stone.

Benjamin Bratt John Gavin Andrew Shue Vincent Van Patten Winger Jennifer O'Neill

by Anonymousreply 230June 2, 2013 4:30 PM

Oh, Sharon Stone made it all right. She just had it for a few years and then the work dried up because she was over the hill and had limited talents. But everyone in the US who was alive then knows who she is.

by Anonymousreply 231June 2, 2013 4:32 PM

I agree the cast of Twin peaks was filled with young stars who should have made it, but none of them did: besides Dana Ashbrook, there was also the incredibly gorgeous James Marshall, Sherilyn Fenn, Sheryl Lee, the hunky Eric DaRe, Madchen Amick... Lara Flynn Boyle sort of made it for a while, but then disappeared because of mental illness and letting her publicity take front seat over her actual career

by Anonymousreply 232June 2, 2013 4:38 PM

Meg Foster

Annabeth Gish

Katie Holmes- let's face it, she's just lingering now...

Jessica Harper

Joey Lawrence

Luke Perry was roommates with Rocky Carroll in the 1980s in New York, They are both incredibly nice and super funny guys. I wish Luke had a better run of it, as I think he's a decent actor.

by Anonymousreply 233July 3, 2013 3:18 AM

Tammy Lauren. If you look at her credits, she started at age 10 and steadily worked all the way to 2010. My favorite is when she guest starred as a teen prostitute who tried to recruit Tootie on Facts of Life. There was no big money for her at any point.

Cary Elwes has all the fame from the Princess Bride, but the big money follow up never happened for him. He could have been king of romantic comedies. Instead he didn't get another lead role until 1993 with The Crush and Robin Hood: Men in Tights.

by Anonymousreply 234November 7, 2013 2:52 AM

Melissa Joan Hart

by Anonymousreply 235November 7, 2013 3:34 AM

[quote]Rene Russo was one of the first supermodels before she went into acting. Even at her later age, she did better than most models at a second career.

She's very good in "The Thomas Crown Affair" and "Tin Cup."

by Anonymousreply 236November 7, 2013 3:36 AM

R88 and R89 nailed: Julia Ormond and Josh Hartnett own this thread

by Anonymousreply 237November 7, 2013 3:49 AM

Julia Ormond is in that Charmed rip-off and is Don Draper's mother in law on Mad Men.

by Anonymousreply 238November 7, 2013 4:01 AM

I thought Ben Foster would finally break out after "3:10 to Yuma" but he just continued acting in small films that made no impact at the box office. I thought he was poised to be the next Sean Penn.

by Anonymousreply 239November 7, 2013 4:13 AM

Dermot Mulroney - a gorgeous man and a fine actor. I often wondered why he did not reach superstar status. He deserved it.

by Anonymousreply 240November 7, 2013 4:14 AM

Well, John Gavin was Ambassador to Mexico, wasn't he. I mean that's not exactly working the overnight shift at Dunkin Donuts.

by Anonymousreply 241November 7, 2013 4:16 AM

The 2 actors with the first name Jesse

Jesse Metcalfe Jesse Bradford

Metcalfe was in the spotlight as the gardener on Desperate Housewives and then his career fizzled

Bradford had the bit part in those cheerleader movies (Bring it on) but has not been in anything of note since.

by Anonymousreply 242November 7, 2013 4:29 AM

R235 Melissa Joan Hart never made it as a film actress, but she definitely made it financially. She's been the lead of three TV series! I never watched any of them, but she gets my respect for growing up in show biz and making it look easy.

by Anonymousreply 243November 7, 2013 4:32 AM

Bijou phillips.

by Anonymousreply 244November 7, 2013 4:48 AM

I'd add Brad Johnson. Beefcake-y Rock Hudson-type in "Always," then "Flight of the Intruder," a couple of TV series and YV movies, then schlock like "The Birds 2: Land's End" and other missteps.

Last credit on IMDb is 2008. Retired?

by Anonymousreply 245November 7, 2013 5:52 AM

"YV movies" = TV Movies

by Anonymousreply 246November 7, 2013 5:54 AM

Patrick Wilson

by Anonymousreply 247November 7, 2013 6:19 AM

Diane Varsi , Carrie Snodgress, Diane Mc Bain ,Sharon Farrell, Pamela Tiffin, Edy Williams, Erica Gavin ,Elizabeth Hartman

by Anonymousreply 248January 27, 2015 1:19 AM

Sam Worthington owns this thread.

by Anonymousreply 249January 27, 2015 1:21 AM

Angel Tompkins

by Anonymousreply 250January 27, 2015 1:24 AM

Taylor kitsch,

by Anonymousreply 251January 27, 2015 1:24 AM

Ali McGraw.

by Anonymousreply 252January 27, 2015 1:28 AM

Angelyne

by Anonymousreply 253January 27, 2015 1:38 AM

Rene Russo got more opportunities than she deserved. She was shoved down our throats for several years. And when I saw she was co-starring in Nightcrawler, it was like "They're pulling this shit again?"

by Anonymousreply 254January 27, 2015 1:46 AM

R254 I agree, and could have written the same thing about Alex O'Loughlin. I'm glad Hawaii 5-0 has kept him busy enough these last few years for his people to stop trying to make him happen.

by Anonymousreply 255January 27, 2015 1:54 AM

Do you guys think Kim Cattrall belongs in this category? She started off as a promising ingenue in the late '70s. During that time she appeared in some quality television series (Columbo, Charlie's Angels) and movies (Tribute, with Jack Lemmon). When the '80s came, however, she found herself slumming in forgettable fluff (Porky's, Police Academy), indie movies, and flops (Bonfire of the Vanities). In the '90s, before Sex and the City, she mostly landed one-off TV appearances and corny TV movies. Now, after Sex and the City, she has yet to achieve any major success. Was SATC a fluke, and can we count her among the almost-but-never-made-its?

Cattrall herself even commented on her place in Hollywood (see linked interview at 8:30). She says that, after Porky's, she began losing roles to Michelle Pfeiffer, another actress of her physical type. Is she basically a failed Pfeiffer?

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by Anonymousreply 256January 27, 2015 1:57 AM

Could be, R256, but "failed Pfeiffer" certainly is fun to say.

by Anonymousreply 257January 27, 2015 2:00 AM

My friend Julie

by Anonymousreply 258January 27, 2015 2:05 AM

Someone probably mentioned her but I think Ryan Reynolds deserves a place here.

by Anonymousreply 259January 27, 2015 2:26 AM

Malin Akerman deserves a place at this table, too.

by Anonymousreply 260January 27, 2015 10:12 PM

R8 He's done better for himself than most of the names in this thread (a lot of them are child star/teen movie refugees). He may not be on the Hollywood A-list but the Sharpe TV series made him a household name in Britain in the 90s (not that he hasn't done plenty of things)

by Anonymousreply 261January 27, 2015 10:36 PM

R206 Do we?

by Anonymousreply 262January 27, 2015 10:40 PM

I think the jury is still out on Akerman no?

by Anonymousreply 263January 27, 2015 10:42 PM

nnn j

by Anonymousreply 264April 12, 2020 7:53 PM

I OWN THIS THREAD.

by Anonymousreply 265April 12, 2020 7:56 PM

Lol at this old ass thread pretending that Jessica Simpson didn't make it like at r15. She literally filled the dumb blonde pop-tart role that Britney Spears left for a few years while she played wife & mommy. Right when Britney started making headlines again, post divorce, the media threw Jessica and her sister into the has-been pile. But for a good 2-3 years Jessica Simpson was 100% A-list with a solid career. Anyone saying otherwise is delusional.

by Anonymousreply 266April 12, 2020 8:18 PM

[quote] Any of the American "idols"

That's not true. Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood decidedly made it, as did finalist Jennifer Hudson.

by Anonymousreply 267April 12, 2020 8:29 PM

This thread cracks me up 9 years hence.

Equal parts insightful (yes, Nicole Scherzinger and Thora Birch continue to not have "made it") and demented (Michelle Williams may not be your cup of tea, but she has FOUR Oscar noms, 2 Golden Globe wins, and an Emmy).

by Anonymousreply 268April 12, 2020 8:32 PM

[quote]she has FOUR Oscar noms,

Which means she lost. Oscars are the only awards that count anyway.

by Anonymousreply 269April 12, 2020 8:38 PM

I'd rather have Jessica Simpson's career than Britney's, she's worth $200 million and the money keeps rolling in.

by Anonymousreply 270April 12, 2020 8:39 PM

I'd rather have Jessica Simpson's career than Britney's, she's worth $200 million and the money keeps rolling in.

by Anonymousreply 271April 12, 2020 8:39 PM

I'd rather have Jessica Simpson's career than Britney's, she's worth $200 million and the money keeps rolling in.

by Anonymousreply 272April 12, 2020 8:39 PM

r272 true Jessica made some smart money moves with her clothing lines. Britney is worth just about the same, even though she's been pulling in $20-30 million fro her Vegas residency. Considering her mental handicaps,, Britney is doing fine.

by Anonymousreply 273April 12, 2020 8:46 PM

Rufus Wainwright

by Anonymousreply 274April 12, 2020 8:54 PM

I'm sorry, OP, those two people are not celebrities. Rufus Wainwright, on the other hand... fits the bill to a T.

by Anonymousreply 275April 12, 2020 9:00 PM

Another vote for Ryan Reynolds .

by Anonymousreply 276April 12, 2020 9:01 PM

The movie was written and directed by her husband, R254.

by Anonymousreply 277April 12, 2020 9:02 PM

[quote] One would think being part of the Pussycat Dolls would give her an edge

LOLOLOLOLOL

by Anonymousreply 278April 12, 2020 9:05 PM

You really think Jessica Simpson is worth that much? LOL.

by Anonymousreply 279April 12, 2020 9:06 PM

Maya Rudolph fits this like a glove. The last 2 years there's been a bizarre much to try and make her happen again and I don't get it at all. Her numerous attempts at a variety show flopped, as did her attempts at starring in her own shows. Nothing sticks. Even The good Place, you can trace the exact moment that show went downhill to when she showed up (and they kept her on WAY too long). Not to mention presenting at EVERY fucking award show now.

She keeps getting chance after chance, likely because she's a Lorne Michaels pet.

by Anonymousreply 280April 12, 2020 9:08 PM

r280 = Racist ass bitch.

by Anonymousreply 281April 12, 2020 9:09 PM

Maya Rudolph was attractive when she was younger, but in middle age her chin has collapsed.

by Anonymousreply 282April 12, 2020 9:12 PM

Maya's great, but I don't think she ever wants to be a "superstar." She's essentially a character actress.

I think she could have gone into music, but she likely wanted to avoid any comparisons to her legendary mother, Minnie Riperton.

I do think she's been pushed to try a few variety things, but it's just not worked very well. She needs better writers.

by Anonymousreply 283April 12, 2020 9:12 PM

That should be "bizarre push"*

r283 Really? Then why the constant presenter gigs? I think she definitely wishes she was anywhere near Tina and Amy's level career wise. She still benefits from being grouped in with them, though.

Her only real success was Bridesmaids, where she was the weakest character whose only memorable moment was shitting in the street.

Her problem is it's always the same shtick. The whole "Liza-in-blaccent" thing she always does. Maybe she's capable of more but is never asked to do anything else. Or maybe she's not capable.

by Anonymousreply 284April 12, 2020 9:47 PM

I love Maya Rudolph--I think she's hilarious.

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by Anonymousreply 285April 12, 2020 10:21 PM

Weird how she's married to one of the most acclaimed filmmakers in the business and she hasn't been able to get him to give her even a decent supporting role.

by Anonymousreply 286April 12, 2020 10:29 PM

Maya has always been a second banana and probably knows it. Those types don't really make it like the Julia Roberts do (or did?) They're not going to have studios breaking down their doors to get them to headline their tentpole movies. If your name is mentioned for the sassy best friend or a fun cameo, they'll probably nod and say "yeah, they'd be great" and that's about that. I'm sure quite a few people would at least know who you're talking about if you brought her up. They'd at least maybe remember her from SNL since that was back when it was a show everyone seemed to watch.

Someone like a Carrie Snodgress fits the bill. Fairly well acclaimed and respected at the time, but who never had that mainstream breakthrough role that almost guarantees their place in history forever. Maybe people like Illeana Douglass, Sandy Dennis, Glenda Jackson, etc. might be included in something like that. Well respected character actors who always gave interesting performances but who aren't known for one major mainstream role that everyone would remember. I think it's really all about luck.

by Anonymousreply 287April 12, 2020 10:36 PM

[quote] Renee Zellwegger- quick, name 3 movies she was in?

Even when this was written I could have answered it: Chicago, Coid Mountain, and The Wife, Wide World.

And now, with Judy, there's no question she made it.

by Anonymousreply 288April 12, 2020 10:42 PM

Maya's comedy is very hit or miss. Debra Wilson's Whitney and Oprah on MadTv were much better and funnier than hers.

I actually like Maya better when she does more dramatic work. She was great in Away We Go and that Amazon show she did, Forever which sadly got cancelled. She has a lot of pathos in her acting when she's given the opportunity.

by Anonymousreply 289April 12, 2020 10:53 PM

Rita Ora - despite the best efforts of the Daily Mail.

Sting’s daughter, Coco. Talented and with a better voice than her father’s, but too prone to scowling. Not enough for her and Billie Eilish, I guess.

by Anonymousreply 290April 12, 2020 11:03 PM

^not enough room

by Anonymousreply 291April 12, 2020 11:04 PM

More a celebrity child (that could be its own thread) but Daniel Day Lewis and Isabelle Adjani's son Gabriel. He's been trying to make it as a model and musician but neither has really stuck.

by Anonymousreply 292April 12, 2020 11:09 PM

I know your post was five years ago but r256 if Kim Cattrall was losing roles to Pfeiffer it's because Pfeiffer is a far greater actress than Cattrall is. I love Cattrall but Pfeiffer is a much more nuanced actress.

by Anonymousreply 293April 12, 2020 11:21 PM

Rita Ora

by Anonymousreply 294April 12, 2020 11:45 PM

Would basically all of the Lilith Fair-era artists qualify? Fiona Apple, for example, still has a cult following, but she didn't really last past the first wave of big press she got. Ditto Jewel.

Alanis Morissette wouldn't qualify. It may not have lasted long, but at her peak she was HUGE.

by Anonymousreply 295April 12, 2020 11:52 PM

Fiona and Jewel had actual hits.

by Anonymousreply 296April 13, 2020 12:13 AM

I like Maya Rudolph, too, but unlike Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, she's pretty much just an actress (albeit one with comic, dramatic, and musical chops). And actors are only as powerful as the parts they win.

Tina and Amy are very successful writers and producers with their own multiple projects. Tina first came to national prominence heading the writers room at SNL and hosting Update but wasn't really thought of as an actor at all until 30 ROCK et al. Chances are good that if she hadn't created her own projects for herself and others, we might not know her name at all. Ditto for Amy.

I think Anna Faris is a better example of someone who got some seriously lucky breaks, particularly her TV series (which I find unwatchable). She's not untalented, but I wouldn't put her in the same league as the 3 other ladies.

by Anonymousreply 297April 13, 2020 2:23 AM

Dedee Pfeffer should have had a much bigger career. She has more charisma and comedic chops than her sister.

by Anonymousreply 298June 10, 2020 10:43 AM

Liz Phair owns this thread. One incredible album along with equally incrediby demo tapes but never became the star she so desperately wanted to be.

by Anonymousreply 299June 10, 2020 11:00 AM

Angelyne owns this thread.

by Anonymousreply 300June 10, 2020 11:27 AM

Remember when Jay Mohr was in like every movie in the late 90s/early 00s? He must have had one awesome agent.

by Anonymousreply 301June 28, 2020 7:18 PM

OP-There have been rumors for years that Cuban is a pedo. That may be one reason brands are reluctant to get involved with him.

by Anonymousreply 302June 28, 2020 7:24 PM

Who the fuck keeps bumping all these old threads?

by Anonymousreply 303December 31, 2020 6:39 PM

Jaden and Willow Smith. His dad REALLY tried to make children happen. They didn't happen.

by Anonymousreply 304December 31, 2020 6:44 PM

r108 Grieco actually did a very funny, sharp movie called IF LOOKS COULD KILL which unfortunately bombed. its a cult classic. didnt work because he looks 32 and is playing high school. but very funny twist on James Bond

by Anonymousreply 305December 31, 2020 11:33 PM
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