‘The Shining’ child star Danny Lloyd unrecognisable over 40 years after film’s release
Posted June 16, 2023 by: Admin
Danny Lloyd, a name that resonated with audiences worldwide over 40 years ago, has undergone a remarkable transformation since his acting debut as the young Daniel Torrence in Stanley Kubrick’s sensational film, ‘The Shining.’ Captivating audiences and amassing over $47 million (£37 million) at the box office, this cinematic gem based on Stephen King’s novel catapulted Lloyd to fame and kick-started an unforgettable American cultural phenomenon.
However, the limelight soon faded for the child star as he embarked on a different path. After his appearance in ‘The Shining,’ Lloyd ventured into various roles, notably portraying a young G. Gordon Liddy in the TV film ‘Will: G. Gordon Liddy’ in 1982. Yet, that marked his final on-screen appearance for the next three decades.
At the tender age of 14, Lloyd decided to relinquish his Hollywood dreams and return to the simplicity of being a regular kid. In an interview with The Sun, he candidly expressed his contentment with the way things unfolded. While he had aspired to thrive in the industry with the help of his breakout role, fate had other plans. “I certainly made attempts, but I am genuinely happy with the way my life unfolded,” Lloyd shared. “A Hollywood lifestyle might not have suited me anyway.”
Lloyd sought fulfillment through humble endeavors in his Midwest hometown of Tremont, Illinois. He found employment at Walmart and later embraced life on a pig farm, tending to the animals and operating tractors. The income he earned from these jobs became his ticket to college, where he further nurtured his passions.
Presently, Lloyd resides in the serene outskirts of Louisville, Kentucky, alongside his loving wife Jessi Bowers and their children. With wisdom and experience under his belt, he has transitioned into a role of inspiration as a high school biology teacher.
In a delightful surprise, 2019 witnessed a special moment for Lloyd’s fans, as he made a cameo appearance in ‘Doctor Sleep,’ the highly anticipated sequel to ‘The Shining.’ However, instead of reprising his iconic role as Danny Torrence, the now 50-year-old actor appeared as a spectator during a riveting baseball game scene. Scottish actor Ewan McGregor gracefully stepped into the shoes of Torrence, weaving a new chapter in the Shining saga.
