Have you ever wondered what happens to those familiar faces from your childhood TV shows or the athletic heroes you admired growing up, and how they manage to stay relevant and even achieve greater success in their adult lives? It’s truly fascinating to see how individuals, whether they started as child stars or rose through the ranks of professional sports, can not only maintain their relevance but often become even more influential figures as adults, embracing their authentic selves and forging unique, powerful paths.
From the bright lights of Hollywood sets when they were just kids to the fiercely competitive arenas of professional sports, these individuals have shown incredible resilience, determination, and a willingness to break molds. It’s not always an easy journey, but for these megastar adults, it’s been one filled with self-discovery, empowerment, and incredible achievements that extend far beyond their initial claims to fame. They’re proving that relevance isn’t just about fleeting moments, but about building a lasting legacy.
So, get ready to be inspired as we explore the incredible transformations and triumphs of some truly remarkable people who have captured our hearts and minds, continuing to make significant impacts and motivate us all. Prepare to meet the megastar adults who are undeniably still relevant, actively shaping culture, and living their lives to the fullest on their own terms.
1. **Maitland Ward: From ‘Boy Meets World’ to Unapologetic Empowerment**Maitland Ward is a name that might instantly transport you back to the ’90s, especially if you were a fan of ‘Boy Meets World,’ where she played Rachel McGuire in the show’s later seasons. Her journey from being a beloved Disney star to an adult film actress and memoirist is nothing short of extraordinary and has certainly kept her in the public eye, proving that relevance can come in many forms, especially when you’re living authentically. It’s a bold move, and Ward has embraced it with open arms, finding a profound sense of empowerment along the way.
After her time on classic TV, Ward made the decision to enter the world of pornography six years ago, and she hasn’t looked back. In an exclusive interview, she revealed a surprising outcome: she feels people treat her with “more respect now, honestly, especially even in Hollywood right now.” She’s even pitching her memoir, ‘Rated X: How Porn Liberated Me from Hollywood,’ into a TV format, engaging with people who are surprisingly receptive and positive about her story, particularly younger audiences. This unexpected turn highlights her ability to create her own brand and content, on her own terms.
Ward shared that she was met with an overwhelmingly positive response to her career change, which genuinely shocked everyone she knew. While many anticipated judgment and backlash, she received “so much positivity overall, which shocked everyone I knew.” This outpouring of support, she believes, stems from her own positive and happy outlook on her new path. Her work now involves creating “full-length movies” and “projects that I really feel passionate about,” often collaborating with a female director to produce what she describes as “long erotic, pornographic art pieces,” a fact that often surprises her audience.
Beyond the professional shift, Ward has discovered an incredible surge of confidence through her work in the adult film industry. She admits that she would never have been able to “be by myself and be confident in my body and myself” before. This newfound empowerment allows her to “stand in my own skin, to be able to create projects that I want to create and be proud of, to go against the mold and do something that other people haven’t done or have been too scared to do.” She finds that the sets of adult films offer a level of comfort and open conversation in intimate situations that she hadn’t experienced before. Her story is a powerful testament to living one’s truth, breaking free from societal expectations, and finding strength in unconventional choices.
2. **Madisyn Shipman: Nickelodeon Alum Finds Empowerment in Adult Content Creation**Another familiar face from the world of children’s television, Madisyn Shipman, gained fame as Kenzie Bell on the Nickelodeon series ‘Game Shakers’ from 2015 to 2019. Now 20, Madisyn has embarked on a dramatically different career path, transitioning into adult content creation, specifically joining Playboy. Her story offers another perspective on child stars navigating the complexities of growing up in the spotlight and finding their authentic selves after leaving the world of network television.
Madisyn’s journey reveals the pressures faced by child actors on wholesome networks. She openly discussed how life at Nickelodeon became challenging as she went through puberty, with TV executives imposing strict dress codes to maintain her ‘wholesome image.’ She was “banned from wearing heels, crop tops, or anything that showed her chest,” explaining that on a child network, “you have an image to uphold,” regardless of your age. This restriction meant a constant need to hide her true self and conform to a specific public perception, even outside of work, where she couldn’t wear crop tops or reveal clothing.
Despite these restrictions, Madisyn remains “very, very grateful” for her time at Nickelodeon, emphasizing that she had no complaints about her experience. She fondly recalls working with producer Dan Schneider, describing it as “amazing,” and maintains close friendships with both Dan and the rest of the cast. Her positive memories of the set contrast with the difficulties of upholding a child-friendly image, illustrating the delicate balance many child stars must strike between their personal development and public persona.
Her decision to join Playboy was influenced by attending a basketball event hosted by them, where she saw “so many girls living their best lives.” This experience inspired her to explore a new avenue of self-expression. Madisyn has been open about her boundaries, stressing that she will not be partaking in any full “nudity” shots as “it’s just not who she is.” Her mother, Jen Shipman, has been incredibly supportive, even helping to pick out outfits and taking pictures for her daughter’s platform. Madisyn Shipman’s narrative underscores a different kind of post-child star journey: one of self-acceptance, setting personal boundaries, and embracing a more adult image with the full support of her family.
3. **Lena Oberdorf and Natalia Padilla-Bidas: German Soccer’s Winning Combination**Moving from the world of entertainment to the fierce competition of professional sports, we introduce Lena Oberdorf and Natalia Padilla-Bidas, two German soccer stars who are making headlines both on and off the pitch. They play together for FC Bayern Munich, forming a formidable duo that consistently delivers winning performances. But their partnership extends beyond the soccer field, cementing their status as one of the sport’s newest and most exciting power couples.
Their relationship became public in a charmingly modern way, with the couple hard-launching their love story on social media in September 2025, sharing matching Instagram stories featuring a sweet photo of them holding hands and confirming what many fans might have speculated. This public declaration not only celebrated their love but also brought a new level of visibility to LGBTQ+ athletes in professional sports, inspiring many by simply being themselves and sharing their joy with the world.
Both Oberdorf and Padilla-Bidas are incredibly talented athletes, contributing significantly to FC Bayern Munich’s success, and their ability to excel individually while also thriving as a couple in the high-pressure environment of professional soccer speaks volumes about their strength, compatibility, and mutual support. It’s truly inspiring to see them not only dominate in their sport but also openly embrace and celebrate their relationship, becoming role models for aspiring athletes and LGBTQ+ individuals everywhere.
4. **Natasha Cloud and Isabelle Harrison: WNBA’s Dynamic Duo On and Off the Court**In the electrifying world of the WNBA, Natasha Cloud and Isabelle Harrison stand out not just as exceptional athletes, but also as a powerful couple navigating the demands of professional basketball together. Their story is a beautiful testament to finding love and stability amidst the intense schedule and public scrutiny that comes with being a professional athlete. They truly are partners in every sense of the word, both in life and on the basketball court.
For a time, their love story remained a private affair, but Natasha Cloud decided to hard-launch their relationship earlier this year during an appearance on The Pivot Podcast. She eloquently described their bond as “the most beautiful, most calming, sound thing to my career, to my life,” revealing the profound impact their relationship has had on her well-being. This public sharing resonated deeply with fans, offering a glimpse into the personal lives of their beloved sports heroes.
Now, not only do Cloud and Harrison play together on the New York Liberty, but they also generously share snippets of their adorable relationship with fans across Instagram and TikTok. Their candid posts and heartfelt interactions offer a relatable and inspiring view of a modern sports power couple, breaking down barriers and showcasing that love can thrive even under the brightest spotlights. Their openness is a powerful statement, demonstrating authenticity and allowing fans to connect with them on a more personal level.
5. **Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird: The Undisputed Queens of Sports Power Couples**When we talk about professional athlete power couples, two names immediately spring to mind: Megan Rapinoe and Sue Bird. These two legends have not only dominated their respective sports—soccer and basketball—but have also become iconic figures for their activism, outspokenness, and inspiring relationship. Their journey together is a masterclass in building a partnership that is both fiercely independent and deeply intertwined, making them truly megastar adults.
Megan Rapinoe, a celebrated player for various teams including the U.S. Women’s National Team, is undoubtedly one of the most decorated soccer players in the sport’s history. Her influence extends far beyond the field, as she’s a vocal advocate for equality and social justice. Sue Bird, on the other hand, boasts a stellar career in the WNBA, primarily with the Seattle Storm, and has represented Team USA in an astounding five consecutive Olympics. Their individual accomplishments are staggering, but their combined star power is simply unmatched.
Their relationship, which began in 2017, quickly captured the public’s imagination, culminating in their engagement in 2020. Even after their respective retirements from professional sports, their impact hasn’t waned. They continue to collaborate, notably by hosting the podcast ‘A Touch More with Sue Bird & Megan Rapinoe.’ This platform allows them to delve into various topics, sharing their insights and experiences, and further cementing their status as influential voices. Their enduring visibility and continued work together solidify their position as one of the most beloved and impactful power couples in the world.
6. **Allie Quigley and Courtney Vandersloot: WNBA’s Married Champions and Family First**In the high-stakes world of the WNBA, Allie Quigley and Courtney Vandersloot have written their own unique love story, combining their incredible basketball talents with a beautiful marriage and now, parenthood. They are the ultimate WNBA power couple, renowned for their skills on the court and their deep commitment to each other, both professionally and personally. Their journey together showcases how athletes can achieve greatness, build a family, and inspire countless fans.
The couple tied the knot in 2018 while both were playing for the Chicago Sky, a testament to their enduring bond. They then made history when they became the first married couple to win a professional sports championship together, taking home the WNBA Championship trophy in 2021 with the Sky. This monumental achievement not only highlighted their individual prowess but also their synergy as a team, proving that their partnership truly makes them unstoppable. It was a moment of pure triumph and shared joy, celebrating both their love and their athletic excellence.
WNBA legend Sue Bird, a five-time All-Star and two-time champion, has recently been seen with her partner Megan Rapinoe, a World Cup-winning soccer star. Though their careers have taken different paths, their support for each other remains unwavering. This year, their family grew even bigger, as they welcomed their first child, a daughter named Jana Christine Vandersloot Quigley, marking a heartwarming blend of athletic success, enduring love, and the joy of building a family together, truly embodying #relationshipgoals for sports fans everywhere.
7. **Kristie Mewis and Sam Kerr: Soccer Sweethearts Who Went Viral and Started a Family**Kristie Mewis, who plays for West Ham United, and Sam Kerr, a star for Chelsea, are soccer’s beloved power couple whose relationship garnered widespread attention after a viral moment at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Their journey from a quietly budding romance to public engagement and family life has captivated fans, showcasing another inspiring example of love flourishing between elite athletes. Their story proves that even in the competitive world of professional soccer, love can find a way to shine brightly.
The two met in 2020, and their relationship became Instagram official following that iconic hug caught on film at the Tokyo Olympics, which set off a wave of speculation and excitement among fans. That simple, heartfelt embrace resonated deeply, turning them into instant fan favorites. It was a beautiful, unscripted moment that allowed the world to glimpse the genuine affection between these two formidable athletes, solidifying their status as a major sports power couple and inspiring many.
Their relationship continued to deepen, leading to their engagement in 2023. Further exciting news came in November 2024 when they announced they were expecting a baby together. This was followed by the joyous sharing of a photo of the two of them with their son when he was born in May 2025. Mewis and Kerr’s journey from a viral moment to building a family together highlights their enduring bond and their commitment to each other, both on and off the field. They are not just exceptional players, but also a heartwarming example of love, family, and public authenticity in the world of professional sports.” , “_words_section1”: “1967
Alright, if you thought the first batch of megastar adults was inspiring, just wait until you see who else is gracing our list! We’re continuing our deep dive into the lives of more incredible sports power couples, proving that whether you’re dominating on the court, tearing up the field, or using your platform for change, you can absolutely be a megastar adult on your own terms. These duos are not just winning games; they’re winning at life, building families, and advocating for what they believe in. Get ready to be amazed, because their stories are all kinds of epic!
8. **Kahleah Copper and Binta Daisy Drammeh: A Golden Engagement**First up, we have Kahleah Copper, a name synonymous with WNBA excellence and Olympic gold, and her incredible partner, Binta Daisy Drammeh, a standout player for Sweden’s national basketball team. Talk about a powerhouse couple! Their connection transcends borders and leagues, bringing together two formidable talents who clearly share a deep bond both on and off the court. It’s truly a match made in basketball heaven.
Their love story recently hit a new highlight when Copper popped the question to Drammeh. The couple didn’t shy away from sharing this joyous milestone, gracing us with incredible photos of the moment Copper got down on one knee. These snapshots, brimming with happiness and genuine emotion, quickly went viral, letting fans worldwide celebrate their beautiful journey to forever.
Their public display of affection and commitment is more than just sweet; it’s a powerful statement. In a world where visibility matters, Kahleah and Binta are openly embracing their love, inspiring countless others. They remind us that true partnership is about celebrating each other’s triumphs, supporting through challenges, and building a life together, all while looking absolutely adorable. We can’t help but say, we absolutely love their love so much!
9. **Helen Richardson-Walsh and Kate Richardson-Walsh: Olympic Gold and Advocacy**Prepare to be absolutely blown away by Helen Richardson-Walsh and Kate Richardson-Walsh, two British hockey legends who aren’t just winners, but history-makers! Kate, a former Great Britain hockey captain, and Helen have created a legacy both on the field and in the wider world, proving that their impact extends far beyond their athletic prowess. They’re a true testament to achieving greatness together.
In a monumental moment for sports and LGBTQ+ representation, Helen and Kate became the first same- married couple to ever win an Olympic gold medal. This incredible feat happened when Team Great Britain triumphed at the 2016 Olympics in Rio, cementing their place in history books and inspiring millions. Their shared victory was a beacon of hope and a powerful symbol of love and perseverance.
Even after retiring from the competitive world of professional hockey, their voices haven’t faded, and both women have leveraged their fame and platform to advocate for important social causes, notably speaking out publicly against anti-trans sports bills and challenging JK Rowling’s anti-trans views. Their dedication to fighting for inclusivity and equality demonstrates that their commitment to a better world is just as strong as their drive to win medals.
10. **Vivianne Miedema and Beth Mead: Soccer Sweethearts Navigating New Challenges**If you follow English football, then you’re definitely familiar with the incredible talents of Vivianne Miedema and Beth Mead. These pro soccer players started dating back in 2022 and quickly became a fan-favorite couple, initially sharing the pitch for Arsenal. Their dynamic on and off the field was captivating, showcasing how powerful a partnership can be when two athletes share both a professional and personal connection.
However, their journey took a new turn when Miedema made the decision to move from Arsenal to Manchester, following a period where she bravely dealt with panic attacks and anxiety. This move, while challenging, highlighted her commitment to personal well-being and finding new professional avenues. It’s a powerful reminder that even megastars face personal battles and the courage it takes to prioritize mental health.
Beth Mead, ever the supportive partner, openly backed Miedema’s decision. Yet, in a wonderfully relatable and competitive twist, she humorously shared her hope that they won’t have to play against each other in the future. As Mead told OneFootball, “Obviously, she wanted something new, she wanted a new challenge, and I wish her the best—just not when she’s playing against Arsenal.” It’s a charming insight into the complexities of love and rivalry in professional sports.
11.Get ready to cheer for hockey stars Anya Packer and Madison Packer, a dynamic duo who have gracefully transitioned from making headlines on the ice to captivating audiences behind the microphone! Their journey is a fantastic example of evolving careers, embracing family life, and continuing to impact the sports world in innovative ways, truly showing us how to define relevance on your own terms.
Madison recently hung up her skates in 2024 after a stellar career with the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s New York Sirens. Anya, on the other hand, had previously retired from playing with the Connecticut Whale, making the joyful decision to step away to give birth to the couple’s two beautiful children. Their dedication to family while pursuing their passions is incredibly inspiring.
But retirement hasn’t meant slowing down for Anya! She quickly moved into a powerful leadership role, becoming the general manager for the Metropolitan Riveters and the executive director of the Players Association. Now, these two amazing moms are combining their experiences and witty banter as hosts of their very own podcast, ‘These Packs Puck.’ They openly discuss the trials and tribulations of parenthood, offering relatable insights and a healthy dose of humor to their ever-growing fanbase. How cool is that?
12.Prepare for some serious #Goals, because married retired hockey greats Julie Chu and Caroline Ouellette are not only still crushing it, but they’re doing it together as a coaching duo! These two legends have built an incredible life off the ice, raising their children Liv and Tessa, and continuing to shape the future of hockey, presenting a beautiful blend of enduring love, professional excellence, and family commitment.
Both Julie and Caroline boasted wildly successful professional hockey careers before making the switch to coaching. Ouellette, a true icon of the sport, was deservedly inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2023. Her list of accolades includes an astounding six gold medals at the IIHF Women’s World Championships and four Clarkson Cups, showcasing her unparalleled skill and leadership throughout her playing days.
Chu’s career is equally impressive, having represented Team USA as a four-time Olympian, as reported by Out Sports. Their combined experience and passion for the game now infuse their coaching roles, allowing them to mentor the next generation of athletes. Seeing them continue their legacy while openly celebrating their family life is a testament to their strength and authenticity, inspiring aspiring athletes and families alike.
13. **Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner: WNBA Teammates and Engaged Sweethearts**If you’re a WNBA fan, then you know Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner are absolute forces on the court, and now, they’re taking their amazing partnership to the next level off-court too! Their story is a fantastic blend of professional synergy and personal connection, demonstrating how love can thrive even amidst the fast-paced, high-pressure world of professional basketball. They truly are the definition of a power couple.
These two WNBA stars are back to being teammates once again, proving that some bonds are just meant to be! While their careers have seen them play for different teams—Thomas with stints at the Connecticut Sun, Indiana Fever, and now heading back to the Phoenix Mercury—their paths keep bringing them back together. Their shared history on the court for the Connecticut Sun laid a strong foundation, and fans are always thrilled to see them unite.
Their commitment isn’t just about winning games; it’s about winning at life. These basketball lovers made their relationship official in the most heartwarming way, getting engaged during the WNBA All-Star Weekend in 2023. How perfectly fitting for two individuals whose lives revolve around the sport! This adorable proposal cemented their status as one of the league’s most beloved couples, showcasing that teamwork truly makes the dream work, both on and off the court. Now, that’s what we call teamwork!
14. **Anna Petrakova and Candace Parker: Basketball Royalty Building a Beautiful Family**Wrapping up our incredible list, we have Anna Petrakova and Candace Parker, two former basketball players who exemplify what it means to be megastar adults. They’ve not only achieved immense success on the court but have also built a beautiful, loving family together, redefining what it means to have it all. Their story is a heartwarming blend of athletic greatness, enduring love, and profound personal fulfillment.
This incredible duo exchanged vows in 2019 and have since expanded their family, now sharing three wonderful children. Their commitment to each other and their growing family is a testament to the strong foundation they’ve built. It’s truly inspiring to see how they’ve navigated their high-profile careers while prioritizing and nurturing their personal lives, setting a fantastic example for many.
Candace Parker, affectionately nicknamed “Ace,” is widely celebrated as one of the best WNBA Players of all time, and her influence extends far beyond the court; she famously made history as the first woman to ever commentate for the NBA and currently holds the prestigious position of president of Adidas women’s basketball. Anna Petrakova, a former Russian basketball player and a four-time Olympian, met Parker when they were playing together for UMMC Ekaterinburg, and their romantic journey began with a memorable first kiss after practice, a sweet origin story that People reports, together forming a force showing that true greatness is multifaceted and deeply personal.
And there you have it, folks! From the bustling sets of our childhood favorites to the intensely competitive arenas of professional sports, these megastar adults are absolutely crushing it, proving that relevance isn’t just about staying in the spotlight, but about living authentically, building powerful relationships, and making a lasting impact on the world. Whether through bold career changes, groundbreaking activism, or simply by openly embracing their love and families, they continue to inspire us all to live our best, most genuine lives, so go forth and be your own megastar adult, because their stories show us anything is possible when you truly own your journey!
