Amanda Bynes is widely recognized for her leading roles in memorable films such as She’s the Man, What a Girl Wants, and Hairspray. Her career, however, has taken a dramatic turn, especially after the “teen movie queen” faced struggles with substance abuse and mental health issues.
Once a Promising Child Star, Amanda Bynes Now Faces Challenges
Born in 1986, Amanda Bynes was once regarded as a successful child star with immense potential in Hollywood. She was praised for her natural acting talent, humor, and rapid-fire delivery.
Bynes began her acting career at the age of 7, but she became widely known after starring in What a Girl Wants (2003). In 2010, she started filming Hall Pass but was later replaced by Alexandra Daddario. In July of the same year, Amanda announced her indefinite hiatus from acting.
Amanda Bynes once sparked rumors of a romantic relationship with actor Channing Tatum while they worked together on She’s the Man (2006). However, both have never confirmed this information publicly.
In 2018, during an appearance on a talk show, Channing Tatum expressed his fondness for Amanda Bynes, referring to her as a wonderful actress and always hoping she would be okay. “I love her, and I just hope she stays well,” Tatum said.
Due to her early fame, Amanda Bynes frequently became a target of media scrutiny. Her romantic relationships also garnered significant media attention. Amanda Bynes and actor Nick Zano were reportedly in a relationship from 2003 to 2004.
Amanda was also briefly engaged to Seth MacFarlane in 2008. From 2008 to 2009, Amanda Bynes dated Doug Reinhardt. By 2010, she had a relationship with rapper Kid Cudi.
In 2020, Amanda Bynes publicly announced her engagement to Paul Michael. However, a few months later, both announced their decision to end their relationship. After some ups and downs in her life, in July 2022, both reportedly stated they were “going their separate ways” quietly.
From Substance Abuse to Being Found Wandering the Streets
Who would have thought a rising star like Amanda Bynes would end up in such dire circumstances, unable to step out of what seems to be the “desperate zone” in her current state?
In 2010, Amanda Bynes shocked the public by announcing her “retirement” from Hollywood at just 24 years old—considered the peak and most talented age for a young actress. According to Amanda Bynes, acting was not as enjoyable as she thought it would be and she felt disconnected from the joy of performing. After her “retirement,” the public stopped hearing any news related to Amanda Bynes.
However, in 2012, Amanda Bynes’ life attracted significant attention when she was arrested for suspected DUI and substance abuse while driving. The public was shocked, as she was once a beloved star who had become a troubled figure.
By 2013, Amanda Bynes faced a temporary conservatorship due to ongoing mental health issues and substance abuse. The conservatorship was established shortly after Amanda was placed under psychiatric hold for setting fire to a neighbor’s house in Thousand Oaks, California. When authorities spoke to her, they determined that the 27-year-old star needed to be hospitalized for further evaluation due to signs of severe mental health issues.
Amanda Bynes frequently exhibited erratic behavior and was often in the news for her actions. The actress also had a strained relationship with her family, despite their attempts to help her overcome her struggles.
In 2018, during an interview with Paper magazine, Amanda Bynes revealed that she felt directionless. She shared, “I was working my ass off and didn’t feel like I was doing anything at all. I had a lot of free time, and I was just wasting it away and being a mess. I was really starting to use substances, and it became a way of life for me, leading to a dark, depressing place.”
Following her appearance in Paper magazine and the revelations about her substance abuse, many believed Amanda Bynes was “better” and ready to return. However, in February 2019, after a period of positive appearances, Amanda Bynes was again placed into rehab due to heightened scrutiny following the interview that put pressure on her. Amanda Bynes had to continue treatment with the support of mental health professionals and rehabilitation specialists.
The mental health situation of Amanda Bynes worsened when, on March 21, it was reported that the actress was taken to a mental health facility after being found wandering the streets. Amanda had reportedly flagged down a taxi and told the driver about her distress.
A mental health professional determined that the actress needed to be held under California’s 5150 law. This law allows individuals with mental health issues to be involuntarily hospitalized for up to 72 hours or longer. This news shocked the public, as many believed Amanda Bynes was on the path to recovery.