Carrie Henn was just ten years old when she starred in one of the most iconic sci-fi movies of all time, Aliens. The young actress was cast as Newt, the orphaned child who forms a close bond with Sigourney Weaver's Ripley in James Cameron's 1986 sequel.
While her memorable role in the acclaimed horror catapulted her to fame, Carrie decided to turn her back on Hollywood in pursuit of a more "normal" childhood.
© Sygma via Getty ImagesKeep reading to find out more about Carrie's life after leaving the limelight.
Carrie Henn's life after Hollywood
Carrie, who won a Saturn Award and a Young Artist Award for her performance in Aliens, decided to step away from acting in favour of a more private life.
© Alamy Stock Photo"I ultimately wanted to be a normal child," she told the Alien vs. Predator Galaxy podcast in 2019. "I just wanted to assimilate into American life and make friends. It was difficult at first because I was obviously different; not only had I been in a major movie, but I also had an English accent. I just pushed forward with my normal life and eventually got my education to become a teacher."
Carrie Henn's very different career
After graduating from California State University, Stanislaus, Carrie became a school teacher.
Explaining her decision to turn her back on fame, Carrie told Tulsa World in 2016: "That's what a lot of people have a hard time understanding.
© Getty Images"They don't understand that [acting] wasn't my passion. It wasn't my dream. Did I enjoy it? Yes. Was it an amazing experience? Absolutely. Would I do it again? Of course. But it wasn't my passion. Teaching was."
While Carrie chose a life out of the spotlight, she shares fond memories of her time on the Aliens set during appearances at fan conventions, Q&As and red carpets. The former actress often posts her upcoming appearances on her Instagram page, and is scheduled to feature at the pop culture convention Stealth Con, taking place in Missouri in October.
Carrie Henn's family life
Carrie is married to Nathan Lutcher. The couple, who wed in 2005, share one child.
Her Instagram bio reads: "Wife, mother, educator, and child actress (Newt - Aliens)."
