Source: Us Magazine
Peter Ostrum, who played Charlie Bucket in the 1971 film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, never pursued another acting role after the movie. At age 12, he chose to step away from Hollywood and eventually became a veterinarian. Inspired by a local vet after his parents gifted him a horse, Ostrum followed his passion, graduating from Cornell University in 1984. He has since led a quiet, fulfilling life treating animals in upstate New York and raising a family.
Though the film was initially a modest success, it gained popularity over the years, bringing occasional attention back to Ostrum. He sometimes appears at film events and school talks, using his story to inspire kids to explore different paths in life. Ostrum values his brief time in the spotlight but considers his Veterinary career far more rewarding. His journey reflects a meaningful pivot from childhood fame to a purpose-driven profession and family life.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.usmagazine.com/entertainment/news/why-willy-wonka-child-star-peter-ostrum-left-hollywood/