8 Entertainers Who Said They Were Done and Came Back Anyway

We’ve all been there—waving a dramatic goodbye to something that once brought us joy, only to find ourselves drawn back in. Entertainers are no different. Whether it’s a singer who swore off touring or an actor who claimed they’d hung up their cape for good, sometimes the spotlight just calls them back. Here’s a look at eight entertainers who said they were done and then, surprise! They came back anyway.

1. Britney Spears

Photo by Mathew Browne

Ah, Britney. The pop princess who gave us endless hits and then took a step back from the limelight. After a tumultuous period that included her very public struggles and a conservatorship that felt like a never-ending nightmare, she announced in 2021 that she was done with performing. But just when we thought we’d heard the last of her, she hinted at new music in the works. It’s like the universe just knew we needed more of that iconic Britney magic!

2. Dave Chappelle

Remember when Dave Chappelle walked away from his mega-hit show? He left behind a $50 million contract and went on a soul-searching journey that took him to Africa. Fans were devastated. Fast forward to a few years later, and he’s back, baby! With a series of Netflix specials and a sold-out tour, he’s proven that sometimes you just need a break to come back stronger—and funnier—than ever.

3. Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey has had her ups and downs, but she sure knows how to make a comeback. After some vocal struggles and a few less-than-stellar performances, there was talk that she might be done with the music scene. Then came the “Butterfly Returns” tour, reminding us all why we fell in love with her in the first place. With those high notes and holiday classics, it’s like she never left! Now, who’s ready for the next Mariah Christmas album?

4. Jennifer Lopez

J.Lo had us all believing she was ready to hang up her dancing shoes after a few years of focused family time and producing. But just like a fine wine, she only gets better with age. She made a splash at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2020 and followed up with new music and films. It’s safe to say she’s not going anywhere—and honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way!

5. Ellen DeGeneres

After wrapping up her long-running talk show, Ellen announced she was done with daytime TV, citing a need for change. Fans were left wondering if we’d seen the last of her wit and charm. But hold on! Since then, she’s popped up in various projects and even teased a few surprises. It’s like she’s trying to keep us on our toes—because who doesn’t love a little Ellen surprise now and then?

6. Rihanna

Rihanna’s fans were left in a tizzy when she hinted that she was done with music to focus on her Fenty empire. But then she did the unexpected and graced the Super Bowl stage in 2023, reminding us all of her incredible talent. With whispers about new music swirling, it seems she can’t resist the call of the mic. Come on, Rihanna, we’re ready for that album drop any day now!

7. Robert Downey Jr.

After years of battling personal demons and stepping away from the Hollywood scene, Robert Downey Jr. made a triumphant return as Iron Man, and honestly, we couldn’t be happier. He’s had his ups and downs, but once he got back in the game, he became a beloved figure in the Marvel universe. His comeback story is the stuff of legends, proving that sometimes you really can rise from the ashes. Plus, who doesn’t love a good superhero story?

8. Adele

Adele took a hiatus from music, leaving fans craving her soulful voice. She said she was done touring and focused on her personal life for a bit. But then she hit us with “30,” and suddenly, we were all in our feelings again. Her Las Vegas residency is a testament to her return, and let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want to see her belt out those heartbreaking ballads live? We’re just grateful she’s back, and we can’t wait for more!

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