Blanchett is not alone in this desire, as several other well-known actors have also chosen to leave Hollywood at various points in their careers, some later returning to the fold. Among them, Cameron Diaz enjoyed a decade-long hiatus, stating it was the best period of her life as she embraced motherhood. Meanwhile, Oscar-winning actor Daniel Day-Lewis has oscillated between retirement and returns, even teaming up with his son for an upcoming film.

Not everyone announced their departure clearly; for instance, Jack Nicholson has never made a formal retirement statement. His fellow icons like Greta Garbo and Sean Connery sought solitude, while Rick Moranis took time off to prioritize family after personal loss. Others, like Bridget Fonda and Gene Hackman, have quietly stepped away from the camera, relishing their experiences outside the industry.

Despite their choices to withdraw, the allure of acting continues to draw some back, as evidenced by stories of returnees like Fonda and Day-Lewis. This trend highlights the complexity of life in the public eye and how personal journeys often lead to intriguing pathways that differ from the glitzy Hollywood narrative.

From enjoying privacy to reconnecting with family, these stars exemplify the different routes to fulfillment beyond fame, be it via temporary breaks or full retirements from the spotlight.