Peter Barton captured hearts in the 1980s as a charming actor who graced both television screens and the pages of popular teen magazines. From his early roles in series like Shirley and The Powers of Matthew Star to becoming a recognizable face in coveted teen publications, Barton experienced the peak of teen idol status. He navigated the industry for several decades, finally stepping away from acting in 2005. At 65, Peter Barton is fondly remembered for his contributions to ’80s horror cinema and a significant role in a long-running soap opera. So, Where Is Peter Barton Now and what has he been up to since leaving the spotlight? Let’s delve into the career highlights and present-day life of this multifaceted actor.
From Teen Heartthrob to Horror Film Fame
Though Peter Barton achieved teen idol fame, he initially found his footing in the horror genre, albeit somewhat reluctantly. He starred in Hell Night (1981) alongside Linda Blair, a role he famously admitted to needing persuasion to take. As recounted in Crystal Lake Memories: The Complete History of Friday The 13th, Barton confessed, “I didn’t even want to do it—they had to get me drunk to convince me.” Despite his initial hesitation, the experience of filming Hell Night proved to be both “miserable” and “great.”
Subsequently, Barton was offered a part in Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984). His reluctance continued, and it was Amy Steel who convinced him to join the project. He humorously noted his perception of the film at the time: “In my mind, I thought, ‘Oh, I’ll be in the last one. That’s kind of cool. These things are famous.’ Little did I know,” highlighting the franchise’s unexpected longevity. These roles cemented his place in ’80s horror, even if it wasn’t a path he initially envisioned.
Soap Opera Stardom and Later Career
Following Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter, Peter Barton transitioned into television, securing guest roles before landing a significant part in the soap opera The Young and the Restless. In 1988, he debuted as Dr. Scott Grainger, a role he portrayed until 1993. His portrayal of Dr. Grainger resonated with audiences, making him a fixture in daytime television. Barton briefly reprised his role for three episodes in 2005, the same year he appeared in his final film role, Repetition. This marked the end of his active acting career, leading many to wonder, where is Peter Barton now?
An Unexpected Inheritance and Life Out of the Limelight
In 2013, years after retiring from acting, Peter Barton unexpectedly made headlines. Upon the death of Ray Fulk, a man from Illinois, it was revealed that Fulk had bequeathed his estate, valued at over $1 million, to Barton and his Hell Night co-star, Kevin Brophy. The State Journal-Register reported that Fulk considered the actors his friends, despite never having met them. Initially skeptical, Barton investigated and confirmed the surprising truth of this generous inheritance.
Since stepping away from acting, Peter Barton has largely maintained a private life. He occasionally grants interviews, particularly discussing his experiences in horror films, offering glimpses into his past career. In a 2017 Soap Hub interview, Barton shared a heartwarming anecdote about his daughter, Bella, then 11 years old. He mentioned taking Bella to The Young and the Restless set, inspired by her budding interest in acting. “I probably wouldn’t have gone back this time, but my daughter was my inspiration,” he stated. “She watches Disney and, like every little kid, wants to be an actress. She was blown away by what she saw at the studio.”
Peter Barton Today: Life Beyond the Screen
While details about where Peter Barton is now are scarce, it’s clear he embraces a life away from the cameras. He seems to cherish his role as a father and enjoys reflecting on his diverse acting career, from teen idol status to horror movie roles and soap opera fame. Peter Barton’s journey showcases a fascinating trajectory through different facets of the entertainment industry, leaving behind a legacy that continues to intrigue fans curious about his life today. Though he may not be actively seeking the spotlight, Peter Barton remains a memorable figure from the ’80s, his current whereabouts adding an air of mystery to his enduring appeal.
