Once a constant presence on magazine racks and TV screens, Jonathan Taylor Thomas has slipped almost entirely out of public view, with only a few scattered sightings in recent years reminding fans that he’s still out there, living life far from the spotlight.

Jonathan Taylor Thomas became one of the most familiar faces of the ’90s, captivating audiences with his performance as Randy Taylor on the hit sitcom “Home Improvement.”
Jonathan Taylor Thomas on September 7, 1990 in Santa Monica, California | Source: Getty Images

Jonathan Taylor Thomas on September 7, 1990 in Santa Monica, California | Source: Getty Images

He lent his voice to Young Simba in Disney’s animated classic “The Lion King” and starred in films like “Tom and Huck” and “The Adventures of Pinocchio.” At the height of his fame, the young actor was receiving hundreds of fan letters every week.
Jonathan Taylor Thomas attends the launch of “Sonic the Hedgehog 2” on November 24, 1992 | Source : Getty Images

Jonathan Taylor Thomas attends the launch of “Sonic the Hedgehog 2” on November 24, 1992 | Source : Getty Images
Jonathan Taylor Thomas attends the ABC Television Affiliates Party on June 10, 1993 | Source : Getty Images

Jonathan Taylor Thomas attends the ABC Television Affiliates Party on June 10, 1993 | Source : Getty Images

Despite his runaway success, Thomas made the highly unusual choice to step back from the spotlight while still in his teens. During a 1998 appearance on “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” the then-17-year-old revealed why he chose to leave “Home Improvement.”