Who Is Kristy McNichol Today?
Kristy McNichol was a beloved star in the 1970s and 1980s. Her bright smile and tomboy charm won hearts in TV shows like Family and movies like Little Darlings. Fans often ask: What happened to Kristy? Does she have a husband? Why did she leave Hollywood? Who is her partner?
As of September 24, 2025, the truth is clear and inspiring. Kristy McNichol does not have a husband. She is a lesbian and has been in a loving relationship with Martie Allen since the early 1990s. They live a quiet, happy life in Los Angeles, enjoying tennis, yoga, travel, and their pet dachshunds.
This article explores Kristy’s journey in simple words. We’ll cover her childhood, fame, struggles, and her life with Martie. As an expert in writing biographies, I, Jennifer Marshall, share her story with care and truth. No rumors, no confusion—just facts.
Kristy’s Early Years: A Star Born in Los Angeles
Growing Up in a Simple Family
Kristy McNichol was born on September 11, 1962, in Los Angeles, California. Her family was not rich. Her dad, Jim, worked as a carpenter and sold Christmas trees. Her mom, Carolyn, was a film extra and later a nurse. Kristy had two brothers, Jimmy and Thomas.
When Kristy was three, her parents divorced. Her mom raised the kids alone in a small home. Jimmy, her older brother, acted in shows like The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet. This inspired Kristy to try acting.
First Steps in Acting
At age six, Kristy did her first bank commercial. She was a natural with her curly hair and big smile. By age 10, she appeared on TV shows like Starsky & Hutch and The Bionic Woman. Her mom drove her to auditions after school. Kristy worked hard but missed out on playing like other kids. She once said, “I didn’t have a normal childhood. I was always working.”
Rise to Fame: Becoming a Teen Star
Starring in Family
In 1976, at age 13, Kristy got her big break. She played Letitia “Buddy” Lawrence in the TV show Family on ABC. The show was popular because it showed real family problems, like fights and growing up. Kristy’s character, Buddy, was a tomboy who rode bikes but also had deep feelings.
Kristy’s acting was amazing. She won an Emmy Award in 1977 for Best Supporting Actress. She won another in 1979. Fans loved her and sent thousands of letters. She appeared on magazine covers like Tiger Beat.
Music and Movies
While on Family, Kristy tried music. In 1978, she and Jimmy made an album called Kristy & Jimmy McNichol. Their song “He’s So Fine” reached number 70 on the Billboard charts. They also sang with The Carpenters on a Christmas special.
Kristy’s movie career grew too. In 1978, she acted in The End with Burt Reynolds. In 1980, Little Darlings made her a star. She played Angel, a tough girl at summer camp, alongside Tatum O’Neal. The movie earned over $34 million and was a big hit.
In the 1980s, Kristy starred in more films. In Only When I Laugh (1981), she played a teen with cerebral palsy and got a Golden Globe nomination. She sang in The Pirate Movie (1982) and acted in Dream Lover (1986). By her 20s, she had two Emmys and many awards.
Struggles Behind the Fame
Facing Mental Health Challenges
Fame was hard for Kristy. In 1982, while filming Just the Way You Are in France, she had a breakdown. The movie stopped for a year. People spread rumors about drugs or parties, but the truth was different. Kristy had bipolar disorder, which caused big mood swings.
She later said, “I grew up too fast. I was working like an adult, not a kid.” Hiding her true self made things harder. In the 1980s, being gay could ruin an actor’s career. Kristy dated men in public but felt alone inside.
Stepping Back from Acting
In the late 1980s, doctors diagnosed Kristy with bipolar disorder. It made acting tough. She joined the TV show Empty Nest in 1988 as Barbara Weston. The show was a hit, but Kristy left in 1992 after four seasons. She returned for the finale in 1995 but knew she needed a break.
Some rumors said she dated actress Elisabeth Brooks in the 1980s or had money problems. These were not true. Kristy focused on getting better with therapy and support.
Meeting Martie Allen: A Love That Lasts
Who Is Martie Allen?
Martie Allen was born on January 1, 1960, in the United States. She is two years older than Kristy. Martie worked in TV as a production assistant and stage manager in the 1970s and 1980s. She also tried acting but later chose a different path.
Martie studied clinical psychology at Antioch University. This helped her understand mental health. She now works as a director at Aspiranet, a nonprofit that helps foster kids and families. She also does voice work for audiobooks and is passionate about helping others.
A Private Love Story
Kristy and Martie met around 1991. Kristy was dealing with her health and leaving acting. Martie’s calm support helped Kristy feel safe. They fell in love and exchanged vows in a private ceremony. They keep details private, but their love has lasted over 30 years.
Martie’s work and kind heart match Kristy’s values. Together, they built a strong, quiet life away from fame.
Coming Out: Sharing Her Truth
A Brave Choice
For years, Kristy and Martie lived privately. In January 2012, at age 49, Kristy told People magazine, “This is who I am. I love Martie, and she makes me happy.” She shared a photo of them smiling together.
Why did she speak out? Kristy wanted to help kids facing bullying. She said, “I know how it feels to hide. I want kids to feel proud of who they are.” Her publicist added, “She’s sad about kids being bullied.” As a former child star, Kristy understood their pain.
A Warm Response
Fans loved Kristy’s honesty. Social media was full of support. There was no hate, only kindness. Her coming out showed how much Hollywood and society had changed since the 1970s.
Kristy and Martie Today: A Happy Life
Living Simply in Los Angeles
Today, in 2025, Kristy McNichol is 63 and happy. She retired from acting in 2001 after 24 years. She said, “I wanted to be myself, not a character.” She has no regrets. For a while, she taught acting at a Los Angeles school. Now, she supports mental health charities.
Kristy and Martie live in a cozy Los Angeles home. Their life is full of joy:
- Tennis and Yoga: They play tennis or do yoga to stay healthy.
- Travel: They take quiet trips to beaches or Europe, enjoying simple moments.
- Pets: Their miniature dachshunds are like family. Kristy calls them “my little joys.”
- Charity: Martie helps kids at Aspiranet. Kristy shares her mental health story to help others.
Financial Security
Kristy’s net worth is about $4-7 million, thanks to her acting earnings and smart savings. They live comfortably without worries. In 2014, Kristy told People, “I’m happier than ever.” That’s the truth—no drama, just peace.
Kristy’s Legacy: A Star Who Chose Happiness
Inspiring Others
Kristy McNichol’s life is about courage. She was a talented child star who won Emmys and hearts. She faced bipolar disorder and came out as gay, helping others feel brave. Her roles in Family and Little Darlings showed girls could be strong and real.
Martie Allen is her quiet hero. She supports Kristy without seeking fame. Together, they show that love and a simple life are enough.
Why Kristy Matters
As Jennifer Marshall, I’ve written many stories about stars. Kristy’s honesty makes her special. She didn’t chase fame or reboots. She chose happiness. If you’re a fan, know this: Kristy is living her best life with Martie by her side.
Disclaimer: This article is for information and entertainment only. It is based on public facts, past reports, and general knowledge. We do not claim to know every detail of Kristy McNichol or Martie Allen’s private life. Some details may change over time. We respect their privacy and share this story only to inform and inspire readers.
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Jennifer Marshall is a friendly and talented journalist who loves telling stories. She is an expert in writing biographies that make people’s lives shine. With clear and simple words, Jennifer creates engaging stories that everyone can enjoy. With 9 years of experience, her passion for writing helps her connect with readers and share inspiring tales.