Vikrant Massey to Zaira Wasim: Bollywood and Hollywood celebrities who retired from acting

In the world of show business, where young and old chase the dream of attaining fame and fortune, for some stars, the call to step away from the limelight proves stronger than the allure of stardom. Whether due to personal convictions, a desire for a quieter life, or the pursuit of new passions, actors are known to leave the glamorous life behind, even at the heights of their success. From Vikrant Massey to Zaira Wasim, Evangeline Lilly and Daniel Day-Lewis, here's a list of actors who left audiences stunned when they announced that they were retiring from acting.

Actor Vikrant Massey surprised all on Monday when he announced his retirement from acting. Sharing an emotional note with fans, he revealed that 2025 would mark his final year in the industry. Massey, in his emotional note, shared his a desire to focus on his personal life. "As I move forward, I realise it's time to recalibrate and go back home," he said. He concluded his note saying, "Last 2 movies and many years of memories. Thank you again. For everything and everything in between. Forever indebted!"

Marvel actress Evangeline Lilly, star of the 'Ant-Man' franchise, announced her retirement from acting early this year. Sharing her thoughts in a heartfelt Instagram post, Lilly expressed the joy and peace she found in quitting from the film industry. In her note, she wrote, "Stepping away from what seems like the obvious choice (wealth and fame) can feel scary at times, but stepping into your dharma replaces the fear with fulfilment. I might return to Hollywood one day, but, for now, this is where I belong.”

The breakout star of Aamir Khan's 'Dangal' and 'Secret Superstar', Zaira Wasim shocked fans when she announced her decision to step away from Bollywood in 2019. Zaira cited her growing disconnection with her faith and personal beliefs as the reason for quitting the life of a starlet. She said, "Though I may fit here perfectly, I do not belong here."

Jack Gleeson, who became a household name as the villainous King Joffrey Baratheon in 'Game of Thrones', shocked fans when he announced his decision to retire from acting to focus on his studies. While he stayed away from the camera, Gleeson co-founded a theatre company and performed at local Irish events. However, his love for storytelling eventually reignited. In a quieter yet celebrated comeback, he returned to the screen in the BBC adaptation of 'The Famous Five'.

Oscar-winning actor Daniel Day-Lewis often hailed as one of the greatest actors, retired at the peak of his career. After completing his final film, 'Phantom Thread' (2017), the three-time Oscar winner made the decision and offered no further comment on the subject.

Former Bollywood actress Sana Khan left the industry in 2020, citing a desire to focus on her faith and humanitarian work. The Bigg Boss alum announced her decision on social media and has since dedicated herself to spiritual journey and pursue philanthropic pursuits. Sana famously shared that while looking back at her career, she felt the devil made her choose "modernism" over simplicity.