The child star from the cherished ’90s film “Curly Sue” has once again caught the eyes of her fans at the age of 43.
Let’s take a look at what happened to her after she stepped away from the limelight, including her struggles with sobriety.
She became a familiar name in the early 1990s, captivating audiences with her charm and iconic curls in “Curly Sue.”
Since leaving her acting career, many fans have wondered about her journey beyond Hollywood.
Let’s revisit her path throughout the years, from navigating fame as a child, overcoming addiction, starting a family, and pursuing a new career.
Today, fans are delighted with her appearance, often calling her “beautiful.”
Beginning with “Parenthood” alongside Steve Martin in 1989 and transitioning to “Curly Sue” with Steve Carell in 1991, her career captured the hearts of many. The role of Curly Sue quickly became one of her most memorable.
From Hollywood Fame to Life’s Challenges
Despite the instant connection she felt with “Curly Sue,” some of the character’s physical traits were not her own. She humorously confessed, “My hair was very straight. I did not have curly hair.” Through two perms and daily curling, her famous look was created just for the role.
After her brief return to acting in 2008’s “Meet Dave,” she decided acting was no longer her true calling. Her memories of Hollywood remain cherished, but she realized, “Life as a child star was normal life for me.”
Desiring to live a more ordinary life, she stepped away from the spotlight, choosing instead to experience typical teenage activities. Despite trying to blend in, Curly Sue’s shadow lingered, a reminder of her former fame.
Her life faced further hurdles; in 2014, she openly discussed her long battle with alcoholism on her blog, sharing, “I’ve waited a long time to write about my sobriety. It’s a touchy subject.” Her path to sobriety began in 2007, and it has since shaped her life profoundly.
On her blog, she described her transformation post-sobriety, finding solace and purpose through meetings and God’s support.
In 2021, recalling this journey in a heartfelt Instagram entry, she wrote, “Every ‘problem’ I had loaded was solved the moment I got sober. Everything in my life today I owe to the clarity and surrender I found in sobriety.”
A New Chapter
This charming actress is none other than Alisan Porter, and in the years following her acting career, she entered new phases of life, including starting a family. In March 2012, she tied the knot with long-time friend Brian Autenrieth.
Although their marriage eventually ended, she reentered the public scene through her powerful performances on “The Voice” in 2016, ultimately winning season 10. Despite personal challenges unfolding during the show, “The Voice” reignited her passion and confidence.
Her life as a co-parent unfolded smoothly with Autenrieth after their separation, allowing her to seamlessly raise their children nearby, maintaining harmony.
In July of 2022, Porter announced her engagement to childhood friend Justin de Vera, to whom she was married in April 2023 in an intimate Las Vegas ceremony.
Their celebration included heartfelt vows and embraced the involvement of their children, merging family with festivities.
Over the years, Alisan’s passion for music has continued to unfold publicly; as of 2024, she introduced a new single. “It’s the story of a divorce, but it doesn’t necessarily mean a divorce from a marriage,” she said, shedding light on her personal transformation.
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Porter is open about the intricacies of her life, career, and relationships. “I was an actress when I was very young. It’s not my passion. This is my passion,” she shared about finding her calling in music rather than acting.
“The Voice” was crucial in shaking off her “former child star” label, unveiling her true passion for music during her memorable blind audition.
Reflecting on her path from child star to singer, she acknowledges “The Voice” graced her with the perfect setting to showcase her musical talent. Her recent reappearance and social media presence have won her glowing accolades, as her transformation truly astonishes viewers.
Fans celebrate her elegance with enthusiasm, remarking on her beauty: “Hair is 🔥🔥” and “Gorgeousss 🔥🖤.”
From a cherished child star to an accomplished mother and musician, Porter’s path hasn’t been easy.
Despite her battles, she remains sober and has fashioned a delightful life—and social media admirers acknowledge her remarkable beauty.
