The transition from child stardom to a troubled adult life is a recurring theme in Hollywood, with many young actors struggling to navigate the pressures of fame and maintain a stable personal life. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon, including exploitation, lack of privacy, and the challenges of transitioning to adult roles.

One of the most common issues faced by former child stars is financial exploitation. Many young actors have limited control over their earnings, which are often managed by their parents or guardians. This can lead to mismanagement of funds and leave the former child star with little to show for their years of hard work. Drake Bell, a former child actor on Nickelodeon, claimed that he and his co-star, Josh Peck, never received residuals for their show.

Another challenge is the lack of privacy. Child actors grow up in the public eye, with their every move scrutinized by the media and fans. This can make it difficult to develop a sense of identity and can lead to feelings of isolation and anxiety. The constant attention can also make it difficult to form normal relationships, as it can be hard to trust people's intentions.

The transition from child roles to adult roles can also be difficult. Many child actors are typecast and struggle to find work as they get older. This can lead to feelings of rejection and a loss of purpose. Some former child stars turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with these challenges. Corey Feldman, who starred in films such as "The Goonies" and "Gremlins," has spoken candidly about his struggles with drug and alcohol abuse, which he said was a way to escape abuse from his mother and sexual abuse he suffered while in the film industry.

In some cases, former child actors have also alleged abuse within the entertainment industry. Corey Feldman has been vocal about the abuse he and his friend Corey Haim faced in Hollywood. Drake Bell has also detailed sexual abuse allegations against Brian Peck, an actor and dialogue coach hired by Nickelodeon. These allegations highlight the vulnerability of child actors and the potential for exploitation in the industry.

Despite these challenges, some former child stars have successfully transitioned to adult careers and personal lives. However, their stories serve as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of early fame and the importance of protecting young actors from exploitation and abuse.