Kristy McNichol, who was one of the most popular child actors of the 1970s and early 1980s, re-emerged Tuesday to talk about her decision to leave show business.

McNichol, 52, had a brief career revival in the early 1990s staring in shows like "Family," "The Golden Girls," and "Starsky and Hutch." Her last big sitcom was "Empty Nest" that exited stage right from TV in 1995. After a few minor roles, McNichol disappeared completely from show business from1998 to 2012.

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Leave it to another 1980s era TV ratings icon, "The Love Boat," to bring McNichol back into view. Six original "Love Boat" cast members reunited this week to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Princess Cruise Lines.

McNichol appeared on that show once as a guest, and then had a role in the TV movie "The Love Boat II." She attended the anniversary celebration as the "Love Boat" crew reunited for the christening of the Regal Princess Cruise Ship at Port Everglades in fort Lauderdale, Fla..

McNichol said she left show business "for a variety of reasons," but a major reason was her desire to live a low-key life after performing from age eight to 30. She said she was interested "in learning what else there is in life."

McNichol said she was satisfied with her life after show business. She called her home life "happy and serene," saying she enjoyed singing, traveling and spending time in Hawaii. "I like everything about it," she said of Hawaii, "and may eventually move there part-time."

The last time McNichol went public came in 2012. She came out as a lesbian, saying she wanted to help others who had been bullied because of their sexual orientation. 

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