The 90s were a golden era for pop culture, with iconic TV shows, movies, and music acts defining a generation. From Friends to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, the stars of the 90s graced our screens and radio waves, becoming household names and capturing the hearts of millions. But where are they now? As the 2020s roll on, many 90s stars are making a comeback, proving that their influence never really left. Let’s take a look at some of the most beloved stars from the 90s and what they’re up to today.
1. Jennifer Aniston (Rachel Green – Friends)
Jennifer Aniston’s portrayal of Rachel Green on Friends cemented her status as one of the most beloved actresses of the 90s. Since the show wrapped up in 2004, Aniston has had a successful career in both film and television. She starred in hit movies like Marley & Me and The Break-Up before transitioning into more dramatic roles in recent years, such as her Emmy-nominated performance in The Morning Show. In addition to her acting career, Aniston has become a co-founder of the lifestyle brand LolaVie, showcasing her business savvy. With rumors of potential Friends reunions and continued critical acclaim, Aniston remains as relevant as ever.
2. Will Smith (Will – The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air)
Will Smith, originally known as the charming and mischievous Will from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, is now one of Hollywood’s highest-paid and most versatile actors. After his breakout role on the beloved sitcom, Smith transitioned to a blockbuster movie career, starring in hits like Men in Black, Independence Day, and Bad Boys. Recently, he’s had a resurgence, notably with his role in the critically acclaimed King Richard, which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. Alongside his acting career, Smith has become a social media sensation, with his Instagram presence and YouTube channel offering fans an intimate look at his life and family. His influence, both in Hollywood and on social media, is undeniable.
3. Sarah Michelle Gellar (Buffy Summers – Buffy the Vampire Slayer)
As the iconic slayer Buffy Summers in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Sarah Michelle Gellar became a staple of 90s TV. After the show wrapped in 2003, Gellar continued her career with a mix of film and television roles, including Cruel Intentions and The Grudge. However, Gellar took a step back from acting in recent years to focus on her family life and business ventures. In 2021, she made a successful return to television with the Paramount+ series Wolf Pack, reigniting interest in her career. Additionally, she co-founded the food company Foodstirs, offering organic baking kits. Gellar’s influence still resonates, and fans are eager to see her continue to shine in both business and entertainment.
4. Neve Campbell (Sidney Prescott – Scream)
Neve Campbell became a horror icon with her portrayal of Sidney Prescott in the Scream franchise, a role that has become synonymous with the 90s slasher genre. While she had a steady film and TV career in the years following Scream, including roles in Party of Five and The Philanthropist, Campbell’s career experienced some quieter years. However, in 2022, Campbell made a triumphant return to the Scream franchise with Scream 5, proving she still has what it takes to terrify and entertain audiences. As of 2025, Campbell continues to make waves, both in film and television, and her role in Scream has solidified her as a true 90s horror queen.
5. Christina Aguilera (Pop Star)
Christina Aguilera was one of the most prominent pop stars to emerge in the late 90s, debuting with her self-titled album in 1999. Known for her powerhouse vocals and chart-topping hits like “Genie in a Bottle” and “What a Girl Wants,” Aguilera quickly became one of the biggest stars of the decade. After a successful career in pop music, including albums like Stripped and Back to Basics, Aguilera shifted her focus to more artistic and personal endeavors. In recent years, she has returned to music with new albums, including Liberation in 2018, and continues to tour. Aguilera has also found success as a coach on The Voice and is set to perform at major events, reminding us that her voice is as captivating as ever.
6. Mark-Paul Gosselaar (Zack Morris – Saved by the Bell)
Mark-Paul Gosselaar, best known as Zack Morris from the hit 90s teen sitcom Saved by the Bell, made his mark in Hollywood at a young age. While he enjoyed success in shows like NYPD Blue and Truth Be Told, Gosselaar made a massive return to the role of Zack Morris in the 2020 Saved by the Bell reboot on Peacock. The show introduced a new generation to the beloved characters while allowing Gosselaar to revisit his iconic role with a mix of nostalgia and humor. Gosselaar is now balancing his career between acting and raising a family, continuing to charm audiences with his signature wit and charm.
7. Tiffani-Amber Thiessen (Kelly Kapowski – Saved by the Bell)
Another standout from Saved by the Bell, Tiffani-Amber Thiessen played the role of Kelly Kapowski, the quintessential high school sweetheart of the 90s. After her time on Saved by the Bell, Thiessen went on to star in Beverly Hills, 90210 and later in White Collar. In recent years, she has embraced her role as a TV personality and cook, hosting her own cooking show, Dinner at Tiffani’s, and sharing her love for food with her followers on social media. Her return to TV with a blend of cooking and lifestyle content has allowed her to connect with both nostalgic fans and a new audience.
8. Matthew Fox (Jack Shephard – Lost)
Matthew Fox became a household name after his portrayal of Jack Shephard on the hit show Lost. The show, which ran from 2004 to 2010, was a cultural phenomenon, and Fox became a key figure in TV’s golden age of dramas. After Lost, Fox took a step back from the limelight, only occasionally appearing in films like Alex Cross and Bone Tomahawk. However, he made a return to TV with the limited series Last Light, marking his comeback as a leading man in a new era. Fox remains a respected actor, and fans are eager to see where his career goes next.
9. Pamela Anderson (Baywatch Star)
Pamela Anderson became the ultimate 90s icon with her role as C.J. Parker on Baywatch. Known for her platinum blonde hair, red swimsuit, and stunning looks, Anderson was the face of an era. After Baywatch, she transitioned to acting in films, modeling, and even reality TV. In 2022, Anderson made a massive comeback with her memoir and Netflix documentary Pamela, A Love Story, which revealed the untold stories of her personal life, including her marriage to rock star Tommy Lee. Now in 2025, Anderson has embraced her role as an activist, working to raise awareness on various social issues, all while remaining a beloved pop culture figure.
Conclusion
The 90s produced some of the most unforgettable stars, and as we move through the 2020s, many of them are making successful returns. Whether it’s through acting, music, or entrepreneurship, these stars prove that their influence on pop culture has remained undiminished. Their journeys since the 90s show that while trends and tastes may change, the talents and legacies of these beloved icons continue to resonate with fans new and old. As we continue to look back on the 90s with nostalgia, it’s clear that these stars are still shining in their own unique ways.