Child stars power 'profitable storytelling machine'. But who protects them?

The tragic deaths of three former child stars within a year have sparked calls for better protections in the Hollywood industry. Hayden Panettiere, who passed away at 36, revealed in her memoir that she was given a drug to boost her energy during a red carpet appearance. Michelle Trachtenberg, another co-star of Ice Princess, died at 39 due to complications from diabetes after struggling with addiction.

Daveigh Chase, known for her roles in The Ring and Lilo & Stitch, passed away at 35 from AIDS after battling drug abuse and homelessness. These deaths have reignited discussions about the challenges faced by child stars and the lack of adequate protections.

Christy Carlson Romano, an Even Stevens star, wrote in an Elle essay that child stars power one of the most profitable storytelling machines, but their mental needs are often overlooked. Anna Paquin, who won an Oscar at 11 for The Piano, stated that the deaths were not mere coincidences and that the systems in place are not as protective as they should be.

The 1939 Coogan Law, named after the first child star Jackie Coogan, ensures that 15% of a child actor's earnings are set aside in a blocked trust and provides guidelines for schooling, work hours, and time off. However, despite decades of regulation, allegations of lawlessness in Hollywood during the 2000s have come to light.

In recent years, the industry has seen a rise in child influencers, with no specific legislation to regulate their activities. Former Disney star Alyson Stoner has accused the company of providing unsafe working conditions, leading to her malnourishment and chronic stress. Raquel Lee Bolleau, a former Disney child star, has sued the company, alleging sexual abuse on set in 2001.

These incidents echo the struggles faced by Panettiere, Trachtenberg, and Chase, raising concerns about the future of child stars in an unregulated industry.