23 Child Actors Who Died Young

Child actors are thrust into a spotlight that even adult actors aren’t fully prepared to handle. Suddenly, every moment of their lives is captured for the world to see. Due to the nature of their work, these children often face situations that would be more suitable for adults, but because of their age, they lack autonomy—from the clothes they wear down to where their hard-earned money goes.

In her 2022 bestselling memoir, I’m Glad My Mom Died, iCarly star Jennette McCurdy wrote frankly about her stage mom’s abuse. Corey Feldman, of The Goonies and Stand by Me fame, has spoken out not just on the pressures of being a young actor but the abuse that runs rampant in Hollywood.

Of course, not all child stars fight private battles. Kurt Russell, Raven-Symoné, and Neil Patrick Harris are some of the many child actors who have thrived well into adulthood. However, just as many young stars—once adored for their infectious catchphrases and precociousness—have fallen through the cracks of the industry. Many were taken far too soon.

Using news articles, interviews, and documentaries, among various other sources, Stacker assembled a list of 23 child actors who died young.