How to Recover From Scandal Like Winona Ryder

During the late 80s and early 90s, acclaimed actress Winona Ryder was hailed as Hollywood's "It" girl. But in 2001, police arrested Winona at a posh Beverly Hills boutique where she reportedly stole $5,500 worth of store merchandise. Although she claimed to be preparing for an upcoming film role that required her to shoplift, the judge sentenced Winona to three years probation and 480 hours of community service. Want to rebuild your rep like this starlet did? Follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Take a break from the public eye. After her shoplifting scandal in 2001, Ryder retreated from the public and was rarely seen at premiers, parties or other social events and photo opportunities typically attended by Hollywood's elite.

2. Keep working. Ryder continued to work in films soon after her arrest. In 2002, she appeared in the romantic comedy, "Mr. Deeds" with Adam Sandler, as well as the science fiction drama, "S1m0ne" with Al Pacino.

3. Revisit the projects that made you famous. In an interview with "Entertainment Weekly," Ryder revealed she'd reunited with "Heathers" screenwriter, Daniel Waters to star in the sequel to the film as well as another black comedy.

4. Fulfill your sentence requirements. Ryder fulfilled her obligation to serve 480 hours of community service, and in 2004, the Superior Court judge reduced her felonies to misdemeanors.

5. Use humor to diffuse the scandal. Ryder poked fun at her own predicament when she wore a T-shirt emblazoned with the logo, "Free Winona" while she hosted an episode of "Saturday Night Live" and again on the cover of "W" magazine.