Melissa Joan Hart says working young taught her 'good work ethic' but 'stunted my growth in other ways' Melissa Joan Hart said becoming a child star gave her discipline and independence, but it limited her social development. 8 February 2026 Melissa Joan Hart appreciates how being a child star set her up for life at a young age. Melissa Joan Hart shot to fame aged 15 However, the actress - who shot to fame aged 15 after landing the lead role of Clarissa Darling in the Nickelodeon 1990s teen sitcom, Clarissa Explains It All - did not like how growing up on TV sets held her back socially.