Evangeline Lilly Says She ‘Always Hated Being Famous’

Lost alum Evangeline Lilly is opening up about her life after stepping away from Hollywood.

The actress revealed her retirement from acting in 2024, though in a new interview with CBN News, she clarified that “it was actually 2020 [that I left Hollywood], so it’s been six years now. It’s been a long time of adjusting and discovering what this decision … what the consequences of it would be.”

“There has definitely been moments of fear, of how do you consciously and intentionally let go of so much seemingly power, influence and potentially money?” Lilly, 47, said in the Friday, October 16, interview. “And also just affirmation of yourself. When you’re successful at something, it feels really good. When the world says, ‘We love you, you’re amazing’ … this is a wonderful feeling. How do you walk away from that?”

She continued, “I’ve had moments of gripping fear, like, ‘What am I doing?’ But ultimately, the decision was one that was made in great conviction.”

Related: Stars Who Left Hollywood Behind: Debbie Turner, Michael Douglas, More

Celebrities such as Michael Douglas and Debbie Turner rose to stardom in Hollywood — only to leave their acting careers in the past. Thank You! You have successfully subscribed. Subscribe to newsletters Enter your email Please enter a valid email. Subscribe By signing up, I agree to the Terms and Privacy Policy and to receive […]

The Ant-Man and the Wasp star said she always envisioned finding purpose in humanitarian work, which she has been able to devote more time to since leaving Hollywood.

“Even before I became an actress, I was studying political science and international relations at university, with the idea of becoming a humanitarian or a missionary or a diplomat. I wanted to make the world a better place,” she said. “I’ve always wanted a hands-on impact. I’ve done 22 years of hands-on humanitarian work in Rwanda and I want more of that.”

Lilly also admitted that she is happier outside of the limelight.

“I love telling stories, but I’d like to tell stories of my own instead of being in front of the camera. I’d much prefer a quieter position. I’ve always hated being famous,” she shared. “I never made any secrets about that. … It’s just been incredibly liberating and beautiful to step into a total trust and surrender that God has a plan for my life [and] that plan doesn’t necessarily … it doesn’t have to be about fame and wealth and power. It can be about more important things.”

Related: James Lafferty Was Ready to Quit Acting Before ‘One Tree Hill’

Most people have thought about giving up their jobs at one time or another — including some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. During a 2019 interview with Australian Men’s Health, Chris Hemsworth admitted that he considered leaving acting behind after his role in 2009’s Star Trek sparked fewer opportunities than he’d hoped. Thank You! You have […]

Since leaving Hollywood, Lilly said her “health has dramatically improved.”

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“I had massive chronic health issues by the time I retired,” she said. “The stress and pressure and demands of being a public figure and the job were probably more than my little system was equipped to carry. I am healthier and I am happier. I don’t look back with regret. I’m glad for the choice I made.”

Earlier this year, the actress opened up about having “brain damage” following a traumatic brain injury.

“It’s late on January 1, the first day of 2026, and I’m entering into this new year — the year of the horse — with some bad news about my concussion,” she said via an Instagram video in January. “The results came back from the scans, and I missed every area, and my brain is functioning at a decreased capacity.”