fA former teen heartthrob experienced the intensity of fame, having been pursued countless times by adoring fans. Even decades later, the star continues to astonish everyone with his timeless looks. Take a look at his incredible transformation and life story over the years.
The singer pictured on January 1, 1970, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
From a childhood in a successful family to witnessing personal hardships, to building a career behind the camera and finding joy in family life, this is the story of the ’70s heartthrob who stepped away from fame at its height.
The singer photographed on January 1, 1970 | Source: Getty Images
The teen idol singing on stage on January 1, 1978 | Source: Getty Images
He would belt out his popular hits like “Da Doo Ron Ron” and “That’s Rock ‘n’ Roll,” but after the show, he often found himself swarmed by fans. They climbed onto his car, grabbed his hair, and even chased him out of Dodger Stadium during the 1977 World Series.
The singer pictured with fans outside WQXI radio studio on June 1, 1977, in Atlanta, Georgia. | Source: Getty Images
The actor, Pamela Sue Martin, and Parker Stevenson on the set of “The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries,” 1977 | Source: Getty Images
The public figure managed to avoid the typical pitfalls of teen fame, crediting his family for keeping him grounded. “By the time I became successful at 18, three other people in my family had already been wildly successful,” he explained.
The child star poses for a portrait session on January 1, 1978, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
The singer and his mother at the 44th Academy Awards on April 10, 1972, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
Reflecting on those days in an interview, the singer 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.”
The singer photographed on January 1, 1979, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
Shaun Cassidy during the 37th Annual Golden Globe Awards on January 26, 1980, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Years later, he reflected on that decision, saying he often wondered how his younger self managed to endure that level of fame. He admitted, “I’m still trying to figure it out. But I do think going away from it saved it for me.”
Shaun and David Cassidy at David’s wedding wedding on January 1, 1970, in Las Vegas | Source: Getty Images
David, best known for his role in the 1970s sitcom “The Partridge Family,” faced a lifelong struggle with alcohol addiction. As an actor and singer, his battles with substance abuse became a significant part of his story.
David Cassidy on the set of “The Partridge Family,” 1971 | Source: Getty Images
David Cassidy performs at the “The Ultimate Idols” concert on September 13, 2008, in Staten Island, New York. | Source: Getty Images
He mentioned that witnessing his brother’s alcoholism was extremely hard, noting that it is a painful experience many families face. He admitted that managing such a situation is challenging and that there is no definitive guide on how to handle it.
Shaun Cassidy and David Cassidy during St. Clare’s Hospital Benefit Luncheon on October 6, 1993, in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Despite previous family challenges caused by his alcoholism, his family came together to support him during his final days. Shaun also pointed out that his brother’s childhood was quite different from his own.
David and Shaun Cassidy on the set of “Blood Brothers,” 1993 | Source: Getty Images
The showbiz star found the experience both enjoyable and therapeutic, as it gave them a chance to feel a strong connection to their father, who died tragically in 1976 in an apartment fire.
David Shaun Cassidy pictured on January 1, 1975 | Source: Getty Images
Ann Pennington and Shaun Cassidy during Opening Night Performance of “She Loves You” on July 2, 1987, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
The television star later married actress Susan Diol, who previously appeared on “Quantum Leap” and the “Star Trek” series. The couple welcomed a daughter, Juliet Cassidy.
Susan Doil and Shaun Cassidy attend the 39th Annual Drama Desk Awards on June 5, 1994 | Source: Getty Images
Currently, Shaun is happily married to his third wife TV producer Tracey Lynne Turner, whom he wed in August 2004. Together, they have four children. In total, Shaun is a father of eight, having welcomed his children with his three wives.
Over the years, he has worked on shows like “American Gothic,” “Roar,” “Cold Case,” and “Emerald City.” He also served as the executive producer and writer for NBC’s medical drama “New Amsterdam,” which aired for five seasons.
Shaun Cassidy’s journey from teen idol to successful writer and producer showcases his ability to adapt and thrive beyond the spotlight. Even now, his enduring charm and talent continue to captivate fans, proving that some stars only shine brighter with time.
