Teen Idol Walks Away From Hollywood to Build the Life That Matters Most

Kirk Cameron didn’t plan on being an actor at all. Long before he lit up television screens as Mike Seaver on Growing Pains, he dreamed of becoming a doctor. But after a family friend—who happened to be Adam Rich’s mother—suggested his mom take him to a few auditions, his life changed path overnight.

Reluctant or not, he landed commercial roles easily, including an early spot for McDonald’s. Despite his lack of enthusiasm, casting directors loved him. And then came Growing Pains, the sitcom that turned him into a worldwide phenomenon.

But while fans adored him, the Hollywood lifestyle never sat comfortably with him.

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