27 Celebrities From the 2000s We Don’t See Much Anymore

The 2000s birthed many great films, television shows, music albums, and books that helped shape pop culture into what it is today. Pan’s Labyrinth, That’s So Raven, Speakerboxxx/The Love Below, and Twilight made an impact during the post-Y2K scares. In a way, we also grew up with these doses of entertainment, all led by influential celebrities.

Despite offering eternal material for fans to remember, it’s as if some particular celebrities only show up on occasion. Sometimes, in life, our favorite celebrities choose to evade the spotlight after a certain time.

Of course, famous personalities may stick to social media and newer projects, yet their Hollywood-basked days fall behind them. Even then, some rich folks don’t show up for unexplored ventures for whichever reason they see fit. As noted, these celebrities from the 2000s rarely step into the public eye.

Ben Stiller

There’s undoubtedly something about Mary, and it really concerns Ben Stiller and his reputation as a comedian, actor, and filmmaker. The New York City-born Zoolander idol became involved in many great comedies from the 2000s, including Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story and Madagascar.

In recent memory, Stiller focuses more on serving as an executive producer for Severance and In the Dark. Though he’s mainly behind the camera, Stiller stars in the David Gordon Green-directed Nutcrackers. The film premiered in September 2024 through the Toronto International Film Festival.

Vincent Martella

Phineas (of Phineas and Ferb fame) himself, Vincent Martella, stayed busy as a young actor in the 2000s. During the decade, he befriended Tyler James Williams’ Chris Rock in Everybody Hates Chris and the aforementioned cartoon program. Since Martella is the voice of Phineas Flynn, he’s portrayed the character beyond just television.

Though he remains active in some adventures, Martella only branches out a little aside from acting. He’s primarily a voice actor, yet we won’t find him or Perry the Platypus elsewhere besides social media.

Granted, Everybody Still Hates Chris premiered in September, but Martella won’t return as Greg Wuliger to Bed-Stuy.

Spencer Breslin

Brother to Abigail Breslin, Spencer Breslin appeared in multiple films and television episodes during the 2000s. The Santa Clause sequels, The Cat in the Hat, and other Disney-funded gems feature Spencer engaging in wild on-screen antics.

Breslin is still acting, though it’s minimal. Recently, he starred in the Jean-Claude Van Damme-led Darkness of Man picture in 2024. Breslin’s IMDb page indicates upcoming roles, yet there’s no telling when these films will be released. Breslin also launched a podcast in 2016 with Lara Kleinschmidt.

In other words, Breslin is doing little to evolve his career. Breslin focuses more on booze and music, at least from what we’re seeing on his social media.

Taylor Lautner

The Twilight Saga introduced many fans to a new world from writer Stephenie Meyer. The film series stars Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart, though Taylor Lautner stole hearts with his role as Jacob Black. Once the Twilight series concluded in 2012, Lautner starred in other projects, including some from Happy Madison Productions. Yes, he was in The Ridiculous 6 western flick, unfortunately.

However, Lautner lends his talents to other creative ventures, too. Scream Queens and Cuckoo see the actor under different circumstances, yet he’s focused elsewhere. Alongside his wife, Taylor (yes, they share the same name), Lautner promotes mental health awareness through The Squeeze podcast.

Stephenie Meyer

Speaking of The Twilight Saga, Stephenie Meyer ruled bookshelves for a good part of the late 2000s/early 2010s. Every person knew of Twilight‘s significance because of the film adaptations, which helped sell further copies.

However, where is Stephenie Meyer now? Her last book, Midnight Sun, released in 2020 and still involves Twilight characters. Aside from a couple of producing credits in the 2010s, Meyer isn’t active online. Social media pages provide little context, hinting that the writer lives a quieter life.

Now for the important question: whose side are you on, Team Jacob or Team Edward?

Big Boi

Not every writer dabbled in vampire romance stories in the 2000s. Others, like Big Boi, rapped about anything else that came to mind. Alongside André Benjamin as Outkast, Big Boi (born Antwan André Patton) rocked music charts and various acting roles. Though based in Atlanta, Georgia, Big Boi’s name resonates throughout the hip-hop lore.

While Outkast remains on hiatus, Big Boi continues to rap today. Mainstream music may not highlight his current work, though Big Boi remains hired as a rap artist. He collaborated with Sleepy Brown for the Big Sleepover in 2021, though he’s still delivering raw talent in new shows today.

Paul Wall

Let’s spin another one for the crowd and bring Paul Wall to the stage. The Texas-born rapper is known for bestowing a demanding voice and a set of bright grills. Rob the jewelry store and tell them to make me a grill; ring any bells? “Grillz” topped music charts, including the US Billboard Hot 100 in 2006.

Of course, Paul Wall is still donning his famous grills as he works on new material. We do see Wall on social media, yet the mainstream spotlight seems to evade him. Nevertheless, fans of The Po Up Poet can expect new music to come very soon.

Chamillionaire

While mentioning certain rappers like Paul Wall, it’s only fair to introduce Chamillionaire to the conversation (both rappers once formed The Color Changin’ Click before disbanding in the 2000s). Born Hakeem Temidayo Seriki, Chamillionaire’s “Ridin'” became a necessary track for everyone’s iPod in 2005. Parody mastermind “Weird Al” Yankovic even rode shotgun with his “White & Nerdy” single from 2006.

While Chamillionaire is rolling with new material (primarily through features and mixtapes), we’re not hating on his continued endeavors. Entrepreneurship activities still hang out in Chamillionaire’s back seat, yet his departure from Universal Records results in lesser mainstream attention today. A “Venture Raptivist,” Chamillionaire aims to please his fans.

Lil JJ

Though Lil JJ (born James Charles Lewis III) stays smooth with some tunes, he dabbles more in comedy. The All That and Just Jordan actor went on to perform as a cast member in Wild ‘n Out from 2018-2023.

However, Lil JJ’s current work sees some movement in his career as an artist. He promotes vital information for music gigs through social media, yet the attention isn’t there. He wilds out with Mope Williams in the We Ain’t Done Wild ‘N Yet Comedy Tour, though it’s more lowkey than some fans might assume.

It’s also fair to refer to the comedian as Big JJ, seeing that the jokester is now in his thirties.

Mitchel Musso

It’s only fair to stay on the topic of the younger artists who emerged from the 2000s. One of which is Mitchel Musso of Hannah Montana, Phineas and Ferb, and Pair of Kings fame. He also enjoys getting behind the mic, with two albums showcasing his vocal range. Ghost was released in 2022, though he might have “ghosted” us entirely.

In recent memory, Mitchel Musso’s activities ceased after an apparent chips theft in 2023. The star denies the allegations, yet nothing has surfaced as of late. His social pages indicate positive changes in his health, though it’s challenging to confirm, given Musso’s drunken history.

Kyle Massey

Another Disney Channel performer from the 2000s era involved That’s So Raven‘s Kyle Massey. Of course, the actor starred in other family-friendly programs, including those for Cartoon Network. Although, it’s really his Cory in the House role that helps keep his reputation in the loop.

However, Massey is also running into trouble with the law. A disturbing account involving Massey of “immoral contact with a minor” surfaced in recent years. The situation is somewhat complicated, for Massey admits to living as a victim of sexual abuse. His social media is inactive, with his last posts dating back to 2022.

Christopher Massey

Kyle Massey’s older brother, Christopher, became another well-known actor within the Disney/Nickelodeon/Cartoon Network worlds. He’s primarily known for playing as Michael Barret in Zoey 101 and its Zoey 102 feature.

Despite some legal speed bumps in the past, Massey focuses more on music than acting roles. His latest on-screen gig involved a BMF appearance for one episode in 2024. Now supporting a family of his own, Chris Massey follows a different path than his brother.

If “Zoey 103” happens, it’s only fair to expect Barret back in the mix of Zoey’s inner circle.

Daniella Monet

On the other end of the spectrum, Victorious and Zoey 101 actress Daniella Monet shined as a performer and a songstress. Her television résumé extends from Listen Up to Baby Daddy, with some film roles thrown into the mix.

While the 2000s and 2010s filled Monet’s schedule with projects, Monet focuses more on promoting a healthy lifestyle today. Daniella’s Digest, for example, showcases Monet’s advocacy for living a better life with more thoughtful diets and routines. Monet is also a mother of two children; she married Andrew Gardner in 2022.

Madylin Sweeten

Ray Romano’s on-screen daughter, Madylin Sweeten, played Ally Barone in Everybody Loves Raymond. She continued starring in other projects that ranged from television episodes to films.

Though Sweeten has yet to star in more prominent roles, the actress dedicates her time to theatre productions, fashion, and design. Her marriage to fellow artist Sean Durrie informs fans of her latest activities.

The story plays out differently regarding her younger twin brothers, Sullivan and Sawyer. Sawyer took his own life in 2015 at age 19 while Sawyer avoids the spotlight altogether.

Despite the tragedies, the eldest Sweeten continues to roll with life’s punches.

Amanda Peet

Another actress from the 2000s era we occasionally remember is Amanda Peet. She holds an impressive filmography that stretches from the mid-1990s to the mid-2010s. Some of the projects she starred in include 2012, Something’s Gotta Give, The Whole Nine Yards, and its 2004 sequel.

Peet continues to take up acting roles, but her movie days sit in the rearview mirror. She invests her time in television shows like The Chair and Fatal Attraction, both of which belong to streaming services. We don’t see much of Peet because of the overwhelming nature of streaming platforms. Don’t blame us when we’re still catching up on everything that premieres on Hulu, Netflix, Prime Video, etc.

Christoph Waltz

Has anyone gotten a hold of Christoph Waltz and talked about any new huge roles in the entertainment industry? This Vienna-born performer became an Oscar-winning participant in a couple of films by Quentin Tarantino. On top of Django Unchained and Inglourious Basterds, Waltz also stars in the Daniel Craig-led Bond films Spectre and No Time to Die.

However, that star power isn’t getting set in the right places. Like Peet’s latest ventures, Waltz’s recent work checks into streaming territory. Aside from a few notable works, Waltz’s presence at the box office completely differs from what the 2000s presented with the actor’s talent.

Cody Linley

Hannah Montana smacked lips with Jake Ryan (Oooo!), which Cody Linley portrayed for several episodes. Beyond the prairie’s view, Linley also commits to several comedic and drama roles throughout the 2000s and 2010s.

However, Linley’s predictably only attracts what little the recent Sharknado entries can bite on. The Texas pretty boy focuses more on showing off his face and body through social media than acquiring noticeable acting roles. Linley stares more into his phone camera than a promising script, leaving no favorable opportunities to come his way.

Ivana Baquero

There’s no question that Pan’s Labyrinth is an essential piece of work, and Guillermo del Toro struck gold with Ivana Baquero in the leading role. After the del Toro picture, Baquero acted in other projects, mixing television and film performances.

As for current work, Baquero’s schedule looks relatively open, aside from a role in the upcoming Spartacus: House of Ashur show. Like Linley, Baquero’s current activities revolve around selfies and body poses. Baquero’s personality includes Cameo videos, where the actress charges +$69 per video. It’s really the best we’ll get from Baquero today, at least until the aforementioned Spartacus program premieres.

Angus T. Jones

On the other hand, some actors choose to not involve themselves in new projects. One that we sometimes remember chuckling at during reruns of Two and a Half Men is Angus T. Jones. The actor’s credits extend beyond the popular sitcom, yet Jones’ reputation only goes so far.

Today, Jones only appears on a rare occasion. He gambled with Charlie Sheen’s character in Bookie for one episode; an April 2024 public sighting sees Jones with a full beard and sunglasses. His social media points to music projects, yet he’s merely credited for playing guitar on a track by Hopsin.

Erik Per Sullivan

In Malcolm in the Middle, Erik Per Sullivan stole various scenes as the intelligent Dewey. Within the show’s lifetime of 2000-20006, Sullivan took up other roles, yet his sitcom presence cemented Dewey as an amusing character.

However, Sullivan chooses to avoid acting and instead focuses on education. Fellow Malcolm star Jane Kaczmarek revealed that Sullivan is doing well. The entertainment business simply isn’t for him: “He wasn’t interested in acting at all,” the actress told Malcolm France in 2024.

Rest assured, Sullivan’s future is now, old folks.

Justin Berfield

Okay, but what about Reese, Dewey’s older brother, played by Justin Berfield? The Malcolm in the Middle actor took time to star in other projects, yet he also enjoys working behind the camera.

Aside from some charity work, Berfield tends to keep his days private, though to an extent. His Instagram page showcases family photos, though he’s taken lengths to shield his child’s identity. He’s married to Liza Almeida, and he also holds an affinity for fishing.

We can’t blame the guy for enjoying his 30s as a dad.

Kate Todd

Some love driving around as a father; others, such as singer Kate Todd, focus on motherhood. The Canadian performer surrounded herself with acting roles and music in the 2000s and 2000s. Some folks might remember her as Lily Randall from Radio Free Roscoe, while others might recall her Erica Jones role in My Babysitter’s a Vampire.

Like Berfield with children, Todd dedicates her time to raising daughters Alexandra Elizabeth and Julia Livia. Todd gave birth to Julia Livia in August 2024, so it’s fair to say that parenthood is taking up much of her schedule.

For newer updates, Todd teaches acting and music through her official website.

Alexander Gould

Every family in 2003 attended a movie theater to see Finding Nemo, and its titular character is voiced by Alexander Gould. At age six, Gould worked on Pixar’s aquatic adventure for a few years. Now armed with more than a lucky fin, Gould extended his reach to other projects, such as Weeds (playing Shane Botwin).

Regarding his current work, Gould is relatively private. Certain outlets like Good Morning America keep tabs on the Finding Nemo actor, yet it’s light. Truly, Gould stands as one of those actors we don’t get to see much, even when it potentially involves online social engagement.

Thora Birch

Ghost World isn’t complete without Thora Birch, who achieved some award recognition for her role as Enid. Other slices of entertainment like Hocus Pocus extend her presence across decades on the silver screen.

Though acting roles still fill Birch’s agenda, she is also credited as a director for the upcoming adaptation of Mr. Paradise. She makes the occasional appearance with other roles (The Walking Dead, Mayfair Witches), though big features don’t sit on her plate at this rate.

Dan Byrd

For a while, it felt as if Dan Byrd appeared in every other project audiences and critics clicked with. Aliens in America, Cougar Town, Scandal, we can think of more without highlighting his current work.

The problem is that Dan Byrd’s acting credits are coming in at slower deliveries. The actor’s episode count from previous decades outweighs the lighter intake with shows like Utopia and Young Sheldon. Byrd is active in the media’s eye, yet his personal duties remain entirely private.

Tom Green

As for other performers, Tom Green promotes his activities whenever possible. The Canadian comedian shocked headlines with his unique personality, often breaking down norms and introducing off-brand bits. The Tom Green Show (and all its variants) ensured that the performer stayed around.

However, the public can only take so much of Tom Green. His comedy didn’t necessarily entice the mainstream folks, which might play into his retreat to White Lake, Ontario. Now owning land, Green saddles up a wild Western stance to advertise his comedy shows.

Carmen Electra

We’re on the topic of jokes here, so it’s critical we mention Carmen Electra. The actress appeared in several parody movies in the 2000s, yet her ego helped stamp her place elsewhere as herself. In other words, Carmen Electra is famous for being Carmen Electra.

Electra focuses more on broadcasting her body on social media as she ages than taking up serious opportunities. Her Twitter highlights a line of selfies and attention-seeking tweets. Electra also has an OnlyFans account, signaling the steady decline of the actresses’s electric presence.