Where Are They Now? Noughties TV Stars Then and Now (2025)

Ever find yourself yearning for those thrilling days of 2000s television, when we'd scramble back from the kitchen after a quick ad break, fumbling for the remote, just to dive into the next gripping installment of our must-watch series? The noughties era gifted us some of the most legendary TV programs ever made, spawning a generation of unforgettable actors who skyrocketed to fame and became staples in our living rooms. From die-hard fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer to those hooked on Heroes, we've all pondered the whereabouts of these stars who shaped an entire decade of entertainment. In this piece, we're spotlighting ten of the most emblematic performers from that golden age, tracing their journeys since those iconic roles—revealing who kept shining brightly in the spotlight and who ventured down unexpected paths. But here's where it gets controversial: do we romanticize the past too much, or have these stars truly moved on to greener pastures? And this is the part most people miss: behind the glamour, many faced real-life challenges that forced them to reinvent themselves in surprising ways.

Kiefer Sutherland continues to embody high-stakes action heroes

Kiefer Sutherland redefined his career in the 2000s by portraying Jack Bauer, the unyielding counterterrorism expert in the groundbreaking series 24 (2001–2010). The show's innovative format, unfolding in 'real-time' with each episode mirroring 24 hours and even incorporating commercial breaks, kept viewers on the edge of their seats, heart pounding through every suspenseful moment. Kiefer's portrayal was so intense that it coined the term 'Jack Bauer Syndrome,' highlighting an extreme (and not-so-healthy) work ethic that many viewers jokingly aspired to emulate. Today, he's still drawn to adrenaline-fueled parts, as seen in his recent role as a corporate spy in Paramount's thriller Rabbit Hole (2023). Plus, fans are eagerly awaiting his upcoming action flick, Sierra Madre. When it comes to delivering pulse-pounding rescues on screen, Kiefer remains Hollywood's reliable action star.

Mischa Barton stood out as one of the most familiar faces of the decade

Mischa Barton captured the zeitgeist as the quintessential 'It-girl' of the early 2000s, playing Marissa Cooper in The O.C. (2003–2007). Her character's blend of beauty and inner turmoil captivated audiences, inspiring countless magazine covers and teenage bedroom posters. Viewers couldn't help but admire her striking appearance, even during her character's frequent tearful scenes—which, let's face it, were plentiful and dramatic. Post-O.C., Mischa has maintained a quieter presence, appearing in shows like The Hills: New Beginnings (2019) and the 2023 revival of the beloved Australian soap Neighbours. Catch her next as the amateur investigator Amanda Green in the murder mystery Invitation to a Murder (2023), with a sequel on the horizon for late 2025.

Josh Holloway recently led a critically acclaimed crime drama

Josh Holloway stole hearts as Sawyer, the roguish yet redeemable anti-hero in Lost (2004–2010), emerging as the breakout star thanks to his sharp wit, clever quips, and complicated romances with characters like Kate and Juliet (or even Jack, forming a love square for added drama). Starting from smaller roles, he became a fan favorite overnight. Since Lost, Josh has stayed active with diverse projects, including appearances in the Western saga Yellowstone (2018–2024) for seasons three and four, and the sci-fi thriller Colony (2016–2018). His latest triumph was headlining the 1970s crime series Duster (2025), which garnered near-flawless reviews on Rotten Tomatoes—unfortunately, the show was canceled shortly after its release.

Eliza Dushku entered the Buffy the Vampire Slayer universe (1997–2003) in its third season as Faith, the rebellious, edgy Slayer who contrasted sharply with the show's protagonist. Though an anti-hero at heart, Faith's cool, chaotic vibe built her a dedicated following despite the turmoil she unleashed. She reprised the role in the spin-off Angel (1999–2004), solidifying her as a Buffyverse icon. After her Buffy fame, Eliza starred in the cult film Bring It On (2000), created and acted in the sci-fi series Dollhouse (2009–2010), and founded her production company, Boston Diva Productions. In a twist that feels straight out of a movie script, she's stepped away from acting to become a licensed therapist, earning her master's degree in 2025—and proving that sometimes, the most fulfilling path lies beyond the spotlight.

Hayden Panettiere came back strong in the 'Scream' universe

As part of the Bring It On ensemble, Hayden Panettiere was perfectly poised for her role as Claire Bennet, the high school cheerleader with superhuman healing powers in Heroes (2006–2010). She starred throughout all four seasons, becoming a cultural phenomenon—remember the memorable slogan, 'Save the cheerleader, save the world'? With prior experience as a child actor, Hayden later showcased her singing talents in the country music drama Nashville (2012–2018). After her horror debut as the savvy Kirby Reed in Scream 4 (2011), she made a spectacular comeback in Scream (2022) and Scream VI (2023), her first major roles in years, showing she still nails the comeback like a pro cheerleader.

Teri Hatcher hosts a beloved podcast revisiting 'Desperate Housewives'

Teri Hatcher played a central role as Susan Mayer, the endearing yet clumsy single mother tangled in the suburban scandals of Wisteria Lane in Desperate Housewives (2004–2012). Her relatable, down-to-earth charm, far from the glamorous allure of Eva Longoria's Gabrielle, made her a favorite among viewers navigating love's ups and downs. Following the show's conclusion, Teri appeared as Queen Rhea in Supergirl (2015–2021), a nod to her earlier portrayal of Lois Lane in Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman (1993–1997). Though she's dialed back on acting lately, fans are thrilled—she now co-hosts the Desperate Housewives rewatch podcast Desperately Devoted with her TV daughter Andrea Bowen and her real-life daughter Emerson Tenney, keeping the spirit of the show alive.

Chad Michael Murray stars in a top-rated Netflix romance

Chad Michael Murray epitomized teenage longing as Lucas Scott, the brooding high school basketball player with a poetic soul in One Tree Hill (2003–2012). His smoldering gaze and sensitive bad-boy vibe made him the ultimate heartthrob of the 2000s. His exit in season six was heartbreaking for fans, but Chad bounced back with varied roles, including Agent Jack Thompson in the Marvel series Agent Carter (2015–2016) and the eccentric cult leader Edgar Evernever in Riverdale (2017–2023). Romance enthusiasts are loving Sullivan's Crossing (2023–), where he reprises his heartthrob status as the lead in this Netflix chart-topper.

Lauren Graham reunited with her 'Gilmore Girls' co-star at the Emmys, warming hearts everywhere

Can you think of a more iconic character than Lauren Graham's Lorelai Gilmore? The quick-witted, coffee-addicted single mom at the core of Gilmore Girls (2007) forged an unbreakable bond with her daughter Rory, delivering rapid-fire banter that made her a TV legend. She returned for the Netflix sequel Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life (2016)—and we're still processing those heart-wrenching closing words. Beyond Stars Hollow, Lauren excelled as another single mom, Sarah Braverman-Rizzoli, in Parenthood (2010–2015), and penned bestselling books like her memoir Talking As Fast As I Can (2016). After a brief break, 2025 brought her back in the workplace comedy The Z-Suite, which she also produced. And for a sweet moment, she reunited with Alexis Bledel at this year's Emmys, proving some bonds are forever.

Frankie Muniz has traded acting for the racetrack

As the clever, mischievous middle child Malcolm in the sitcom Malcolm in the Middle (2000–2006), Frankie Muniz became one of the most recognizable young stars of the 2000s. His performance earned award nods and cemented his place in pop culture, though he's since admitted in interviews that he found Malcolm 'the worst character on the show.' After the series ended, Frankie shifted gears to professional racing, with occasional cameos on shows like Criminal Minds. Despite a wrist injury setback, he's racing again in NASCAR, and he'll reprise Malcolm in the upcoming Disney+ reboot Malcolm in the Middle: Life's Still Unfair, set for December 2025.

Jason Dohring formed half of TV's most unforgettable duo

Jason Dohring left a mark as the brooding, troubled Logan Echolls in Veronica Mars (2004–2007), the enigmatic love interest of Kristen Bell's character. Their passionate, tumultuous romance, nicknamed 'LoVe' by shippers, became one of television's most cherished (and dramatic) partnerships. Post-Veronica Mars, Jason built a solid career in genre shows, including iZombie (2015–2019) and The Originals (2013–2018). His final on-screen role was in SEAL Team (2021–2024), but off-camera, he's thriving as a farmer in West Virginia, as shared on his Instagram—showing that even TV's brooding bad boys can find serenity in rural life.

But here's the controversy that often sparks debate: Are we too quick to judge actors for pivoting away from fame, like Eliza Dushku's shift to therapy or Frankie Muniz's racing career? Do these changes make them less 'authentic' in our eyes, or do they reveal a deeper resilience? And this is the part most people miss: Many of these stars faced mental health struggles or industry pressures that pushed them toward reinvention. What do you think—should celebrities stick to their breakthrough roles, or is it empowering to see them chase new passions? Share your thoughts in the comments: Do you agree that some stars' comebacks feel forced, or disagree that off-screen lives matter as much as on-screen ones? Let's discuss!

Where Are They Now? Noughties TV Stars Then and Now (2025)

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