10 Celebrity Comebacks Were Rooting For

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Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we're looking at celebrities we're hoping make a triumphant comeback after career setbacks, time away from the spotlight, or simply not getting the opportunities they deserved.

Edward Furlong

It felt like Hollywood had found its next great star, then life happened. Edward Furlong exploded onto the scene with an unforgettable performance as John Connor in “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” before proving he was much more than a child actor in films like “American History X.” Unfortunately, a substance use disorder and personal struggles brought that momentum to a halt. The good news is that Furlong has spent the past several years getting his life back on track, speaking openly about his sobriety while continuing to work in independent films. He's also become a popular fixture at fan conventions, where longtime supporters have embraced him with open arms. We love to see it!

Cheri Oteri

Let’s face it, Cheri Oteri was one of the defining cast members of “Saturday Night Live” during the late '90s, creating iconic characters while delivering impressions that showcased her unmatched energy. After leaving “SNL,” she continued working, but never quite found another breakout vehicle. That's why 2026 has felt like such a welcome reminder of her talent. Oteri returned to the big screen in the latest “Scary Movie,” keeps popping up on the NBC series “Happy’s Place” and even drew praise for reviving her Barbara Walters impression on CNN. Naturally, those appearances sparked a wave of nostalgia. Hopefully, they're only the beginning of a well-deserved second act.

Katt Williams

Comedian Katt Williams built a loyal following through his razor-sharp stand-up, memorable performances in a variety of films, and a string of hugely successful comedy specials. But throughout the 2010s, legal troubles and public controversies often overshadowed his talent. Rather than fading away, Williams kept touring and refining his craft. His headline-making appearance on Shannon Sharpe's “Club Shay Shay” podcast in 2024 became a cultural phenomenon, introducing him to a new generation while reminding longtime fans exactly why he's one of comedy's most gifted performers. That renewed attention translated into tours and continued demand for his specials. We’re happy that his comeback is already underway, we just hope it grows even bigger!

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Mira Sorvino

After winning the Academy Award for “Mighty Aphrodite” and following it with acclaimed performances throughout the 1990s, Mira Sorvino seemed destined to become one of Hollywood's biggest stars. Then, almost inexplicably, major opportunities became harder to find. Years later, the reason became painfully clear. Following the rise of the #MeToo movement, it emerged that Harvey Weinstein had allegedly worked behind the scenes to damage Sorvino's career after she rejected his advances. Heck, Peter Jackson even confirmed Weinstein discouraged him from casting Sorvino in “The Lord of the Rings.” Despite everything, she's continued acting while becoming an outspoken advocate against human trafficking and sexual violence. Now that audiences understand what happened, it’s time she rose to prominence again!

Taylor Lautner

Sadly, success can be surprisingly uneven. Robert Pattinson became an acclaimed leading man. Kristen Stewart earned Oscar recognition. Of “Twilight's” central trio, Taylor Lautner was the one whose post-franchise career never reached the same heights. Despite enormous popularity as Jacob Black, starring vehicles like “Abduction” failed to launch the next phase of his career. Lautner has since spoken candidly about the pressures of overnight fame, explaining how the intense focus on his appearance and public image affected his mental health. Rather than chasing every blockbuster, he chose a healthier path, co-hosting “The Squeeze” podcast with his wife, Tay Lautner. He's returned to acting selectively, but audiences seem more than ready to embrace a full-on comeback!

Jonathan Taylor Thomas

JTT became one of the biggest teen stars of the 90s thanks to “Home Improvement” and a string of hit family films. But, unlike so many child actors, Thomas made the rare decision to leave at the height of his popularity. He prioritized his education while stepping almost entirely away from Hollywood. Aside from a handful of guest appearances, he has remained remarkably private. There was no scandal, no dramatic fall from grace, just someone choosing a different life. Still, the affection audiences have for him hasn't faded. If Jonathan Taylor Thomas ever decides to make acting a priority again, trust us - there's an entire generation eager to welcome him back.

Macaulay Culkin

Macaulay Culkin may have become one of the most famous child stars in movie history, but years of family conflict and an early retreat from Hollywood left many wondering if he'd ever return. Instead of forcing a blockbuster comeback, Culkin slowly rebuilt his career on his own terms – including a turn in “American Horror Story: Double Feature.” Receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame was also a fitting celebration of both his legacy and resilience. More recently, the incredible success of younger brother Kieran has reminded audiences just how talented the entire Culkin family is. Macaulay seems happier than ever now, and we'd absolutely love to see him headline another major studio film again!

Fergie

As the unmistakable voice behind The Black Eyed Peas' biggest hits and the chart-topping solo album “The Dutchess,” Fergie dominated pop music throughout the 2000s. But after stepping away from the group and releasing “Double Dutchess” in 2017, her recording career slowed dramatically. Her widely criticized rendition of the U.S. national anthem at the 2018 “NBA All-Star Game” surely didn’t help things. Thankfully, the conversation has started to shift. Fergie sparked major comeback buzz with a surprise performance alongside Ludacris in late 2025 before thrilling fans by reuniting on stage with The Black Eyed Peas at the 2026 “American Music Awards.” Whether it's another solo album or a full-fledged reunion with the Peas, we're more than ready to see Fergie reclaim the spotlight.

Amanda Bynes

Actress Amanda Bynes effortlessly transitioned from Nickelodeon standout to big-screen leading lady, earning a reputation as one of her generation's strongest comedic performers. Then came years of very public mental health struggles and legal issues that ultimately led to a conservatorship lasting nearly a decade. Since that conservatorship ended in 2022, Bynes has largely prioritized her well-being over a return to acting. She has occasionally stepped back into the public eye, including launching an OnlyFans account in 2025, while making it clear it would feature non-explicit content. More than anything, we're rooting for Amanda Bynes the person. But, if acting once again becomes part of her journey, we will be ready to welcome her back with open arms.

Rick Moranis

Some legends don't fade - they simply step away. Rick Moranis became one of the most beloved comedic actors of the 1980s and early '90s thanks to a slew of unforgettable performances. Then, following the death of his wife in 1991, he made the deeply personal decision to leave Hollywood so he could raise his children. For years, he turned down countless offers, making only the occasional voice acting appearance. That's why excitement exploded when it was announced that he'd reprise his iconic role as Dark Helmet in the long-awaited “Spaceballs” sequel. After decades away from major live-action movies, his return feels less like a comeback and more like the triumphant homecoming fans have been hoping for. And we hope there’s plenty more to follow!

Which celebrity’s comeback do you think is long overdue? Let us know in the comments below!