The Hidden Struggles of Child Actors in Hollywood and Beyond

The Rise and Fall of Jackie Coogan

Jackie Coogan is remembered as one of Hollywood's pioneering child stars. His performance in Charlie Chaplin’s film The Kid at just seven years old garnered acclaim from both audiences and critics. Coogan became a household name, with merchandise featuring his likeness flooding the market, and he was likely the highest-earning child actor of his time, with estimated earnings between $3 million and $4 million.

However, upon reaching the age of twenty-one in October 1935, Coogan faced a harsh reality when he asked his mother and stepfather for his fortune, only to discover that it had been completely depleted.

Legal Battles and Financial Losses

At that time, California law dictated that a minor's earnings belonged to their parents, leaving Coogan with no legal claim to his childhood wealth. After a protracted legal struggle, he was awarded a mere $126,000 from his original earnings of approximately $4 million.

Coogan's experience was not unique; many child actors, including LeAnn Rimes, Gary Coleman, Macaulay Culkin, and even the beloved Shirley Temple, faced similar financial misfortunes.

The Plight of Child Actors in India

In the Indian film industry, numerous child actors have encountered fates akin to Coogan’s. After years of hard work, they often find their earnings mismanaged or squandered. Notable figures such as Sarika, Khushbu, Daisy Irani, Baby Naaz, and Ravi Valecha have all faced exploitation and abuse.

Financial Mismanagement and Exploitation

Financial difficulties are a prominent issue for child actors, often stemming from mismanaged funds and the pressure of being the family's primary earners. In the past, parents were also exploited due to their lack of knowledge, leading to contracts that offered minimal compensation for their children's work.

As awareness grew, parents began to demand higher fees, which sometimes resulted in their children losing job opportunities. Unfortunately, many parents lacked the skills to manage the newfound wealth, leading to poor investment choices.

The Emotional Toll on Child Actors

Despite advancements in media scrutiny and legal protections, child actors today face new challenges. They often lose their fundamental rights, such as the right to a normal childhood, education, and social interactions. Without proper educational support, many remain unqualified for future employment once their fame fades.

The pressures of fame can lead to emotional struggles, with some child actors resorting to substances to cope, which can escalate to severe consequences, including self-harm or suicide.

Abuse and Coercion in the Industry

Abusive behavior from parents or guardians is another troubling aspect. Some parents push their children into the industry for financial gain, leading to severe mistreatment. For instance, Sarika's mother was known for her harsh treatment, which extended beyond the film sets.

Daisy Irani recounted that her mother would physically harm her and her sister to elicit tears for emotional scenes, and she herself suffered a traumatic experience at the hands of a guardian.

The Impact of Modern Entertainment

The rise of television, OTT platforms, and reality shows has introduced additional challenges for child performers. These shows often demand long hours and can expose children to intense scrutiny and criticism, which can be overwhelming.

A notable example is the 2017 show Pehredaar Piya Ki, which faced backlash for its inappropriate content involving a child marriage storyline, ultimately leading to its cancellation shortly after its debut.

Protecting Child Actors' Rights

While child actors have significantly contributed to the entertainment industry, it is crucial to safeguard their rights and ensure they can enjoy their childhood. It is the responsibility of adults in their lives, including parents and industry professionals, to prioritize their well-being.

Moreover, the government must take an active role in enforcing laws that protect child actors, imposing strict penalties for violations to ensure their rights are upheld.

Conclusion

Excerpted with permission from Behind the Big Screen: The Untold Stories of Bollywood’s Child Actors, Sunanda Mehta and Suchitra Iyer, Bloomsbury India.