16 Celebs Who Got Their Start on Kids’ Shows
Before they were household names, many celebrities first stepped into the spotlight on kids’ television. These early roles helped shape their confidence, charisma, and career paths in unexpected ways.
- Tricia Quitales
- 6 min read
Some of the biggest stars in Hollywood began their journeys on children’s shows, where their raw talent first caught public attention. These programs served as launchpads, offering young actors a space to grow and connect with audiences early on. Whether through sketch comedy, educational TV, or teen sitcoms, these beginnings laid the foundation for major careers in film, music, and television.
1. Justin Timberlake – The All-New Mickey Mouse Club
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Before topping charts and selling out stadiums, Justin Timberlake was performing skits and songs on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club. The show gave him his first national exposure alongside other future stars. His musical talent was clear even in those early years. The platform helped him transition smoothly into *NSYNC and a solo music career.
2. Ryan Gosling – The All-New Mickey Mouse Club
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Ryan Gosling’s charm was on display long before his Oscar nominations. As part of The All-New Mickey Mouse Club, he performed alongside Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears. His comedic timing and stage presence were evident from the beginning. Though he later shifted to dramatic roles, the kids’ show helped launch his career. His transformation from child actor to leading man is remarkable.
3. Britney Spears – The All-New Mickey Mouse Club
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Britney Spears became a pop icon, but her first major gig was on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club. She sang, danced, and acted alongside future music legends. Her time on the show helped her build confidence and polish her performance skills. Audiences were drawn to her magnetic energy even then. It was the first step toward global superstardom.
4. Kenan Thompson – All That
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Kenan Thompson made his comedy debut on Nickelodeon’s All That, a sketch show for kids. His versatility and timing made him a standout cast member. He later starred in Kenan & Kel, another Nickelodeon hit. Today, he holds the record as the longest-serving cast member on Saturday Night Live. His roots in kids’ comedy shaped his enduring career.
5. Zendaya – Shake It Up
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Zendaya started as a Disney Channel star in Shake It Up, playing a young dancer with big dreams. The show showcased her talent in both acting and dancing. It gave her a strong foundation before moving into dramatic roles and music. She eventually starred in Euphoria and major film franchises. Her rise from Disney star to award-winning actress has been seamless.
6. Selena Gomez – Wizards of Waverly Place
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Selena Gomez became a Disney favorite as the mischievous Alex Russo. Her role on Wizards of Waverly Place highlighted her comedic and emotional range. The series ran for several seasons and gained a large fanbase. It helped her transition into a successful music career and film roles. Her journey shows the power of Disney stardom done right.
7. Miley Cyrus – Hannah Montana
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Miley Cyrus became a teen idol playing a girl living a double life as a pop star. Hannah Montana turned her into a household name overnight. The show blended her acting and musical talents seamlessly. It also laid the groundwork for her bold and evolving public image. Despite controversy, she remained a constant in pop culture.
8. Shia LaBeouf – Even Stevens
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Shia LaBeouf brought quirky energy to his role as Louis Stevens. The Disney Channel sitcom showcased his comedic chops and unique style. His performance earned him a Daytime Emmy and widespread attention. He soon moved into major films like Transformers. His early TV role remains a fan favorite.
9. Ariana Grande – Victorious
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Before becoming a chart-topping singer, Ariana Grande played the sweet and eccentric Cat Valentine. Her role on Victorious introduced her vocal talent and quirky charm. She continued the character on Sam & Cat, gaining more popularity. Eventually, she shifted focus to music and became a global superstar. Her roots in kids’ TV helped her connect with young audiences early on.
10. Emma Roberts – Unfabulous
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Emma Roberts starred as Addie Singer, a teenage songwriter dealing with middle school life. Unfabulous allowed her to explore both acting and music. Her relatable character made her a favorite among tweens. The show gave her early experience in leading a series. She later transitioned into more mature roles in film and television.
11. Hilary Duff – Lizzie McGuire
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Hilary Duff’s portrayal of Lizzie McGuire made her a Disney Channel icon. The series focused on relatable teen issues with heart and humor. Duff became a role model for many young viewers. She parlayed her success into movies and a music career. The character of Lizzie remains one of Disney’s most beloved creations.
12. Christina Aguilera – The All-New Mickey Mouse Club
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Christina Aguilera’s powerhouse voice first caught attention on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club. Even as a child, her vocal talent stood out. She later launched a massively successful music career. The show gave her a stage to grow and experiment. Her journey from child star to Grammy winner is unforgettable.
13. Lindsay Lohan – The Parent Trap (Disney)
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Though it was a film and not a show, Lindsay Lohan’s breakout role in The Parent Trap came under the Disney umbrella. She quickly became a household name for her dual role performance. Her natural charm and acting ability were evident from the start. Disney supported her through several more hit films. It was the beginning of a promising, though turbulent, career.
14. Raven-Symoné – The Cosby Show and That’s So Raven
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Raven-Symoné entered the spotlight on The Cosby Show at just three years old. Later, she starred in That’s So Raven, one of Disney Channel’s most successful shows. Her comedic timing and expressive acting won fans across generations. She also ventured into music and hosting. Her presence in kids’ TV spanned multiple decades.
15. Josh Peck – The Amanda Show and Drake & Josh
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Josh Peck started with sketches on The Amanda Show before starring in Drake & Josh. His physical comedy and relatable character made him a standout. The Nickelodeon series was a major hit throughout the early 2000s. Peck continued acting in films and TV as an adult. His transition from child star to adult actor has been smooth and steady.
16. Demi Lovato – Barney & Friends and Camp Rock
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Demi Lovato began their career alongside Selena Gomez on Barney & Friends. Later, Disney’s Camp Rock showcased their vocal talent and screen presence. Their role as Mitchie Torres helped launch a successful music career. Lovato went on to release multiple albums and act in various projects. Their early experience gave them a solid platform for growth.