Child Star Johnny Whitaker Now Helps Others After Addiction Battle

After 10 years of addiction, Johnny Whitaker has been sober for 26 years and is now helping others as a counselor. This is a major life change from his early fame.
By Newsroom | Entertainment, Health |

Johnny Whitaker, once the familiar face of Jody Davis on the 1960s sitcom 'Family Affair', has recently surfaced at 66 years old, speaking candidly about a life that spanned childhood fame, a profound struggle with addiction, and his current work as a recovery advocate. His journey, marked by a decade-long battle with drugs and alcohol, has seen him emerge as a counselor, helping others navigate similar challenges.

Family Affair child star Johnny Whitaker who acted with Jodie Foster then flamed out on drugs resurfaces at 66... see him now - 1

Whitaker's early career, which began at the age of six, saw him cast in 'Family Affair' where his on-screen chemistry with Anissa Jones led producers to rewrite roles for them as twins. This early success was followed by a notable role in the 1973 film 'Tom Sawyer', where he shared an on-screen kiss with a pre-stardom Jodie Foster. The actor has mentioned that this was his first kiss on film, and he humorously notes that Foster doesn't return his calls today.

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Family Affair child star Johnny Whitaker who acted with Jodie Foster then flamed out on drugs resurfaces at 66... see him now - 2

A Descent and a New Path

The transition from child stardom to adulthood proved difficult for Whitaker. He detailed a period of intense struggle, involving divorce, the loss of a girlfriend, and a subsequent plunge into what he describes as "sex, drugs, rock and roll" for about ten years. This era also led to his excommunication from the Mormon church, a faith he had previously held dear. He spoke of feeling disconnected from his religion for approximately 13 years during this time.

Family Affair child star Johnny Whitaker who acted with Jodie Foster then flamed out on drugs resurfaces at 66... see him now - 3

However, Whitaker embarked on a path to recovery, aided by a friend's suggestion to take classes on addiction. He has been sober for 26 years and has since dedicated himself to becoming a drug and alcohol counselor and behavioral health professional. His work now centers on assisting individuals in recovery. Whitaker has also made occasional appearances at nostalgia festivals, reconnecting with fans.

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Family Affair child star Johnny Whitaker who acted with Jodie Foster then flamed out on drugs resurfaces at 66... see him now - 4

Early Career and Later Ventures

Whitaker's involvement in Hollywood extended beyond 'Family Affair'. After the show concluded, he took on the lead role in the musical film 'Tom Sawyer' and later worked in roles such as managing Dana Plato and serving as a computer consultant for CBS. He has also been involved with his sister's talent agency.

Despite the difficulties encountered in his adult life, Whitaker maintains a perspective that his childhood as a young star was a "really positive experience." He recalls not facing many of the typical challenges that can affect child actors. His ability to speak multiple languages, including Portuguese, Spanish, French, and American Sign Language, is another facet of his varied life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Johnny Whitaker doing now?
Johnny Whitaker, who was a child star on 'Family Affair', is now 66 years old and works as a drug and alcohol counselor. He helps people who are going through addiction recovery.
Q: How long has Johnny Whitaker been sober?
Johnny Whitaker has been sober for 26 years. He went through a difficult period of addiction for about ten years after his early fame.
Q: What was Johnny Whitaker famous for as a child?
Johnny Whitaker was famous for playing Jody Davis on the 1960s sitcom 'Family Affair'. He also starred in the 1973 film 'Tom Sawyer'.
Q: Did Johnny Whitaker face problems as a child actor?
Johnny Whitaker has said that his time as a child star was a very positive experience and he did not face many of the usual problems that affect child actors.
Q: What other skills does Johnny Whitaker have?
Besides his acting career and work in recovery, Johnny Whitaker can speak multiple languages, including Portuguese, Spanish, French, and American Sign Language.