Whatever Happened to ‘Fast Times at Ridgemont High’ and ‘Gremlins’ Star Phoebe Cates?

No brunette beauty better represents the ’80s than Phoebe Cates. Whether she’s climbing out of a swimming pool in slow motion, donning a red bikini to the sounds of “Moving in Stereo” by The Cars, or recounting the harrowing tale of discovering her father’s corpse dressed as Santa Claus, Cates left an indelible impression on a generation — one that’s lasted a lifetime.

But then she disappeared.

It’s been a long while since Cates has been in the public eye, having stepped away from acting several decades ago. But what led to that decision, and what is she doing now? Here’s a quick glimpse at the life and career of the woman who defined an era — and why she chose to walk away from Hollywood at the height of her fame.