Popular child stars from the year you were born Child stars—whether gifted with a dimpled grin, soulful eyes, a contagious personality, or stellar acting chops—have captivated the public imagination since the invention of celluloid. From Depression-era darling Shirley Temple to the infectiously adorable Macaulay Culkin of "Home Alone" fame, these talented tykes routinely deliver box office gold, and they are some of Hollywood's most important players.