11 Former Disney Stars Who’ve Faced Legal Trouble as Adults

Title: The Troubled Paths of Former Child Stars: A Look at Legal Troubles

In the often-glamorous realm of child stardom, a number of former Disney actors have faced significant legal challenges as they transitioned into adulthood. The latest to attract public attention is Erik von Detten, known for his role in *The Princess Diaries*. In May 2026, he found himself embroiled in a lawsuit that accuses him and his former employer of financial exploitation against elderly clients.

According to reports, a retired couple from San Diego has accused von Detten and Rosland Capital LLC, a precious metals investment firm, of convincing them to spend more than $2 million on gold coins that were purportedly worth far less than described. This alleged financial misconduct is set to be addressed in a court conference scheduled for November 9.

Shia LaBeouf is another former Disney star whose journey has been marred by a series of legal controversies. The actor has accumulated multiple arrests over the years, including a significant incident earlier this year during the Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans. Following an altercation, LaBeouf pleaded guilty to misdemeanor battery and was sentenced to two years’ probation alongside a structured rehabilitation and training programme.

LaBeouf’s brushes with the law have often centred around public disturbances. His past includes a notorious 2014 incident during a Broadway production, where he was arrested for disorderly conduct, and a 2017 arrest in Georgia for multiple charges including public intoxication. Perhaps most distressing was a separate 2020 complaint from musician FKA twigs, who accused him of serious offences, including sexual battery. Though the lawsuit was later settled out of court, the incident left a significant mark on his reputation.

Former *That’s So Raven* star Orlando Brown has similarly struggled with a host of legal issues. His troubles began as early as 2007, when he was arrested for marijuana possession while denying ownership of the drugs. Over the years, Brown encountered further run-ins with the law, including charges related to DUI and domestic violence. Most recently, he was convicted of criminal damaging and endangering in 2023 after allegedly threatening a relative with a weapon.

In a more troubling episode, Shaun Weiss, known for his role in *The Mighty Ducks*, faced substantial legal trouble stemming from drug-related incidents. In 2020, he was arrested for residential burglary and under the influence of a controlled substance after breaking into a vehicle. Thankfully, Weiss managed to turn his life around, completing a drug program, although he had faced various legal challenges prior to this.

Another troubled star, Lindsay Lohan, became notorious for a series of DUI arrests and probation violations between 2007 and 2013. While she eventually succeeded in closing the chapter on her tumultuous past with the end of her probation in 2015, Lohan has openly reflected on the overwhelming nature of her early fame and its impact on her life decisions.

Mitchel Musso, famed for his role in *Hannah Montana*, also made headlines with an arrest in 2023 due to public intoxication and theft after an incident at a hotel in Texas. Furthermore, his previous DUI charge in 2011 led to a verdict of probation, indicating ongoing challenges in his personal life.

Kyle Massey, known for his roles in both *That’s So Raven* and *Cory in the House*, has faced accusations related to inappropriate communication with a minor. While the initial lawsuit filed against him in 2019 was dismissed, it led to further felony charges in 2021 following his failure to appear in court.

Additionally, David Henrie, another notable actor from *Wizards of Waverly Place*, was arrested in 2018 for carrying a loaded handgun at Los Angeles Airport, an incident described as unintentional. He accepted responsibility for the oversight and complied with legal requirements following the event.

Jake T. Austin, also of *Wizards of Waverly Place*, has faced multiple legal troubles including a hit-and-run incident — charges stemming from which led to an eventual verdict of not guilty. The former child star also dealt with DUI charges but was subsequently put on probation following a plea agreement.

Debby Ryan, remembered as a star of *Jessie*, was arrested in 2016 on allegations of DUI, later pleading no contest and facing a three-year probation requirement.

Finally, Adam Hicks, who gained fame from *Zeke and Luther* and *Lemonade Mouth*, is serving a five-year sentence for armed robbery after being implicated in multiple incidents. His trajectory from child star to felon serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by young actors.

As these examples illustrate, the transition from childhood fame to adult life can be fraught with hurdles, as these once-beloved Disney stars navigate the complexities of adulthood amidst legal entanglements and personal adversities.