Once upon a time, there was a former child star who captured the hearts of fans everywhere. He was famous for his role in a beloved ABC adventure series and was not just a talented actor but also a fantastic singer. During his peak, he was adored by many, and his voice filled the airwaves with catchy tunes.
But then, just when everyone thought he was on top of the world, he made a shocking decision to step away from the spotlight, leaving his fans wondering what happened to their favorite star.
This is the story of a heartthrob from the 1970s who chose to leave behind the bright lights and glamour of fame. He came from a family of successful entertainers, which made his choice even more surprising.
His childhood was spent bouncing between Los Angeles and New York City, two places where dreams come true. While he was still in high school, he signed a contract with Warner Brothers Records. This led to the release of three multi-platinum albums, tons of top-ten hits, and sold-out concerts that thrilled fans across the country.
Imagine being a young star, performing songs like “Da Doo Ron Ron” and “That’s Rock ‘n’ Roll.” The crowds would go wild, and fans would climb on his car, tug at his hair, and even chase him out of Dodger Stadium during the 1977 World Series! It was a whirlwind of excitement, but it was also overwhelming.
At the same time, he starred in The Hardy Boys Mysteries, which made him even more popular. He managed to avoid the typical pitfalls of young fame, thanks to his supportive family. “By the time I became successful at 18, three other people in my family had already been wildly successful,” he told Page Six.
“My father was a matinee idol on Broadway, my mother was an Academy Award winner at 24, and my half-brother David was a very big pop star.” He believed that seeing his family navigate fame helped him stay grounded and not get lost in the chaos.
Reflecting on his early career, he said, “I have a weird career. I had a very explosive first act and then at 21, went into hiding. And I don’t know what inspired that other than I think I was not necessarily wanting to continue on the path of a performer.”
In 1980, he performed in front of a massive crowd of nearly 55,000 people at the Houston Astrodome, a venue that no longer exists. As he stepped onto the stage, the energy was electric.
He told the excited crowd he would “see them soon,” and with that, he left behind his shiny satin pants and microphone, stepping away from the fame that had defined his youth.
Years later, he thought about that decision and how he managed to handle such intense fame. “I’m still trying to figure it out. But I do think going away from it saved it for me,” he shared with People.
Meanwhile, his half-brother, David Cassidy, had a very different story. David was best known for his role in the hit sitcom The Partridge Family, but he faced many struggles, especially with alcohol addiction. His life was a rollercoaster, filled with ups and downs, which became a significant part of his story.
In 2008, David openly talked about his struggles with alcohol, and in 2014, he sought help in rehab. Shaun watched his brother fight this battle and said, “It is a painful experience many families face,” highlighting how difficult it was to see someone you love struggle with addiction.
Tragically, David passed away in 2017 at the age of 67 due to liver and kidney failure after years of fighting his addiction. He was the only son of Jack Cassidy and Evelyn Ward, who later married Shirley Jones, the star of Oklahoma.
Together, they had three sons: Shaun, Patrick, and Ryan. Despite the family turmoil caused by David’s struggles, the family came together to support him during his final days.
Through all the challenges and heartbreak, Shaun found his own path to happiness. He has been married three times, starting with Ann Pennington, a former Playboy model, and they had two children, Caitlin and John Cassidy.
Later, he married actress Susan Diol, known for her roles in Quantum Leap and Star Trek, and they welcomed a daughter named Juliet Cassidy.
Shaun’s journey from a child star to a man who chose a quieter life is a testament to the struggles and triumphs of growing up in the spotlight. He learned the importance of family, love, and finding his own happiness amidst the chaos of fame.
What do you think of this incredible story? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
