Why did he leave The Waltons?
It seems like most of the stuff that he took on after he left were just broke-ass TV movies that couldn't have been any better for his career.
shareTo avoid being typecasted, but it did not work, he will be forever known as John Boy. As least he cherishes the legacy. His other co stars did not fare that great either.
shareNot doing so well after moving on seems to be a common thread in the family shows category. I wonder if there's some kind of stigma about doing that kind of programming. Maybe it's just TV is a career killer for most people too.
shareSome of the acting Waltons wasn't that great *coughs* judy Norton..
shareSometimes, I think it's more about casting directors, producers, and directors who can't see past an actor's most popular role. Getting typecast is a real fear for many actors. It's tough to overcome typecasting. Well-known examples are George Reeves (TV's Superman), Leonard Nimoy of Star Trek fame, and Henry Winkler playing the Fonz on Happy Days. It's a tough road to break out of when they're only getting offers for the same type of character one has already played.
shareDavid Cassidy faced the same thing. I am sure many stars went through this sadly. That is any many go back to school, or go into other fields.
He's a good example, too. Some go behind the camera. I sure don't blame those who leave acting altogether. I assume they'd rather do that than keep playing the same character over and over again. I'd guess that the exception may be character actors who are okay with playing similar characters - hopefully, it pays the bills.
shareSure look at Penny Marshall, Henry Winkler, and Ron Howard. Rob Reiner and countless otners. Jaclyn Smith went into fashion. Jessica Alba has a successful household product line.
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