Rarely-Seen ’80s Sitcom Star, 62, Is Nearly Unrecognizable During Outdoor Workout originally appeared on Parade.
Former ’70s child star Kristy McNichol was recently photographed during another rare public outing. The 62-year-old Emmy winner, who captured hearts in the classic series Family and beloved films like Little Darlings and Summer of My German Soldier, looked ageless while in Los Angeles.
In the photos, McNichol was spotted stretching and exercising outside, sporting a casual athletic look on Sunday, July 20.
The former actress, who went on to star in the popular ’80s sitcom Empty Nest before mysteriously vanishing from the industry entirely, wore a maroon zip-up sweat jacket, black biker shorts, white t-shirt and sneakers.
This sighting marks one of McNichol’s rare appearances since she shocked Hollywood by walking away from acting in 2001. The decision left fans wondering what happened to one of TV’s most beloved stars, making these recent photos especially meaningful for those who grew up watching her.
Under the article, commenters shared their support for McNichol, writing messages like, “She looks fantastic” and “It’s so refreshing to see an actress that has not had plastic surgery!”
The former actress has occasionally surfaced over the past two decades. In 2014, she offered a glimpse into her post-Hollywood life during a candid interview with People.
“This phase of my life is so good. My home life is happy and serene,” she shared. “I love singing. I also enjoy traveling and seeing the world. One of my favorite stops is Hawaii. I like everything about it and may eventually move there part-time.”
When asked about whether she might ever return to acting, McNichol left the door slightly open, revealing, “Never say never.”
“I left show business for a variety of reasons, but a big one was my interest in learning what else there is in life,” she recalled.
Her words turned out to be true when she made another surprise appearance just this past June at the “Hollywood Show.” At the fan convention, she posed alongside other celebrities including Billy Baldwin and Chyna Phillips.
The moment was captured in a now-deleted TikTok video posted by a fan, showing McNichol looking youthful as she reconnected with both her peers and supporters.
Rarely-Seen ’80s Sitcom Star, 62, Is Nearly Unrecognizable During Outdoor Workout first appeared on Parade on Jul 28, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 28, 2025, where it first appeared.
