Jack Nicholson, Born in 1937, The Shining
It’s fair to say that American actor Jack Nicholson has one of the most recognizable smiles in Hollywood history and that it could either fill you with joy or strike terror into your heart, depending on which role he was playing.
After a career of more than sixty years, Jack hung up his performance cloak to enjoy a quieter life, saying that he doesn’t think he has anything left to prove to the world when it comes to acting. We reckon he’s right, but we do miss seeing his talent on screen!
Max Baer Jr., Born in 1937 – The Birdmen
Do you wonder what happened to Max Baer Jr., the handsome young man who played the part of dim-witted Jethro Bodine on ‘The Beverly Hillbillies?’ Well, since the man’s breakthrough show, he appeared on other TV programs like ‘Love, American Style’ and ‘Vacation Playhouse.’
He then devoted his life to various philanthropic activities in the industry, helping ardent artists to pursue their dreams! Now, that is a gentleman who loved the arts and wasn’t afraid to show it. And we are ever so lucky as Max still walks the face of the earth in his eighties, and we hope we could say the same in 10 years!
Bob Newhart, Born in 1929 – The Big Bang Theory
If you are wondering what standup-comedian Bob Newhart is up to, he is doing exceedingly well for a man who is going in his nineties. This would be a surprise, but our beloved Professor Proton from ‘The Big Bang Theory’ has not officially retired yet and is on the lookout for his next big project.
Bob kickstarted his career by publishing his comedic monologues, of which some even topped the Billboard charts. It was only later that the star gained interest in acting and hit the big screen multiple times. At his most recent public appearance in the 2015 Primetime Emmy Awards, he even received an accolade for a role!
Christopher Plummer, Born in 1929 – Beginners
It is not every day that you get to celebrate a man in his nineties, especially someone like Christopher Plummer, whose career spans for over seven decades. That is seventy incredible years devoted to the arts and cinema!
His career debut happened in 1958 when he starred in the blockbuster hit ‘Stage Struck.’ His success in the movie led him to many great opportunities, and unsurprisingly he aced them all. Among the very few actors to receive a Triple Crown of Acting award among other acclaimed accolades to his name, we picture a content gentleman, with the best anecdotes over the years!
Tippi Hedren, Born in 1930 – The Birds
Who says that a person must choose just one profession and stick with it? Tippi Hedren is a perfect example to show that a woman can do anything she wants, and be great at it as well! What is even more interesting is the fact that she accomplished such great things in an era very different from ours as opportunities were visibly limited.
The icon started as a pin-up who graced the covers of countless fashion magazines like ‘Glamor’ and ‘Life.’ Her success as a fashion model led her to the silver screen, and even dedicated time off her busy schedule to serve as an animal rights activist.
Barbara Walters, Born in 1929 – Beginners
Barbara Walters is undeniably among the best interviewers and broadcast journalists of the golden age. Having covered the top stories of the gilded era, the TV anchor worked very hard from 1952 before retiring in 2015.
Throughout her six-decade career, Barbara had interviewed plenty of famed folks, and she did it all exceedingly well, earning herself an induction to the 1989’s ‘Television Hall of Fame’ and several accolades including a Primetime Emmy, and even an award by the GLAAD Excellence in Media. What a fruitful life to reminisce on!
Harry Belafonte, Born in 1927 – Try to Remember
Among the most successful singer-songwriters of his time, Harry Belafonte was given the title ‘King of Calypso’ for promoting Caribbean music and introducing it to a global audience. But interestingly, the man did not limit himself to just one genre! In fact, he has recorded albums in even gospel, folk, and blues in addition to ”American Standards.”
Also, Harry used his platform to always advocate for human rights and freedom of speech, since he said goodbye to music. He then began working on various movies and television. Could you think of a human being who is capable of so many things in a lifetime? We can’t!
Betty White, Born in 1922 – Life With Elizabeth
Could you guess who holds the record for having the longest career on television to date? If you guessed Betty White, props to you! Not that it is too astonishing because the lady is close to hitting a century on earth, and we cannot wait to say we celebrated the media mogul’s biggest birthday, can you?
Known for her accolade-earning roles like Sue Ann Nivens on the ’70s hit show, ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show,’ among many others, it is fair to say that Betty had quite the run in the entertainment industry. Oh, the stories she could tell!
Dick Van Dyke, Born in 1925 – Mary Poppins
Few can claim a career quite as illustrious as American actor, Dick Van Dyke. For more than seven decades, he’s been bringing joy to audiences and has cemented himself as a firm favorite when it comes to comedic acting.
Although Dick is in his nineties, he doesn’t seem to be slowing down at all, and he is frequently seen out and about with his wife, Arlene Silver. His childhood dream was to be a minister, but we’re thankful that he chose entertainment as a way to send his message to the world!
Line Renaud, Born in 1928 – Paris Still Sings
Since 1945, French actress and singer, Line Renaud has been lighting up stages and screens across the world with her talent and voice, appearing on several television shows worldwide.
Line is still going strong and has also been dedicating a large part of her life to her other passion, AIDS activism, since 1985. She’s part of events like ‘Sidaction’ and vice-president of a trust, all of which helps collect and distribute funds for people who live with HIV, and we applaud her for helping to make the world a better place!
Rebecca De Mornay, Born in 1959 – Risky Business
American actress and producer, Rebecca De Mornay’s career was always going to be successful. Still, it rose to prominence after her breakthrough role in the ’80s film ‘Risky Business’ alongside now superstar, Tom Cruise.
Since then, Rebecca has gone on to feature in several films and television shows. She even starred in a music video for the soft rock band ‘Starship!’ Now, she’s still expanding her already impressive resume in her sixties. We look forward to seeing what more she has in store for us in the years to come!
Bill Cobbs, Born in 1934 – The Hitter
Bill Cobbs didn’t start as an actor, and after doing a bunch of odd jobs and completing a stint as a radar technician in the ‘US Air Force,’ he headed to New York and started pursuing his dream of acting.
In 1974 he landed his debut film role and the rest, as they say, is history. Since then, Bill has appeared in several movies and television shows, his most recent being ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ which concluded in 2020. Bill is well on the way to his nineties, but it looks like his passion for acting is keeping him young at heart!
Talia Shire, Born in 1946 – The Godfather
American actress Talia Shire is best known for her roles in the ‘Rocky’ and ‘The Godfather’ films, and her performances earned her several accolades over her the span of her career, which started in 1968.
Talia’s love for acting hasn’t ceased, and even though she is now in her seventies, she is still going strong and can be seen gracing the silver screen in the 2020 film ‘Working Man.’ When she’s not acting, she spends her time with her dogs in her Bel-Air home listening to classical music. We reckon there aren’t many better ways to pass the time!
Sally Struthers, Born in 1947 – All in the Family
Sally Struthers is rarely seen on screen these days, but her new avatar as an activist isn’t any less interesting either. Of late, the star is quite vocal about various causes and is an active spokesperson for ‘ChildFund,’ a welfare initiative for children in developing countries.
She found fame for the first time with ‘All in the Family,’ a show that won her two Emmy awards. But that was not it for the actress, who made it a point to excel on Broadway too! Sally has over two dozen credits as a theater actor, which makes her one of the few Hollywood stars who could hack it on the stage as well.
Raquel Welch, Born In 1940 – Fantastic Voyage
It was the sci-fi film ‘Fantastic Voyage,’ which was the star in the making of Raquel Welch. It is unbelievable that the talented leading lady who has given us several blockbusters marks her eighties’ entry! The good news is that she is still very much in touch with her career and proves how age is just a number!
Welch is best-known for some bold movie choices and what is even noteworthier is how she even performed in a successful one-woman nightclub as a singer! She has also ventured into the business world and has succeeded with her wigs, jewelry, and skincare line. More power to you, madam!
Mel Brooks, Born In 1926 – The Producers
One thing that has remained unchanged in the last seven decades is Mel Brooks’ comic timing and sense of humor. He started his career as an entertainer in ‘Your Show of Shows’ after the stint as a land-mine diffuser with the US Army ended. Subsequently, the star went on to forge a legacy of his own, both in front of the camera and behind it.
Brooks is well into his nineties now, but the energy he demonstrates is unmatched. The actor appeared in a 2019 Broadway play and will soon be lending his voice for the character of Shogun in ‘Blazing Samurai.’
Brigitte Bardot, Born in 1934 – And God Created Woman
Former acting and singing sensation Brigitte Bardot is still considered to be as iconic today as she was in the prime of her career. From 1952 to 1973, she graced the world with more than fifty films and recorded sixty songs, earning her a place amongst the greatest entertainers ever to walk this earth.
Brigitte has always been a big fan of animal welfare, and after her retirement, she got into the full swing of things with her activism. By founding the ‘Brigitte Bardot Foundation,’ the veteran performer has shown everyone that she is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to protecting and preserving wildlife!
Ali MacGraw, Born In 1939 – Goodbye, Columbus
Ali MacGraw successfully paved her way to being one of Hollywood’s precious leading ladies after gaining recognition in ‘Goodbye, Columbus.’ Her contribution as an actress, model and writer remains an integral part of modern-day showbiz history.
We have to say not just her talent, even the way she carries herself with grace has won a million hearts. It is undeniable that we all miss seeing Ali active in the industry, but even watching her old work is a treat for sore eyes. Though it has not been long since she has retired, and we already miss her on-screen!
Nancy Sinatra, Born In 1940 – These Boots Are Made for Walkin’
Specializing in pop, rock, and country music; Nancy Sinatra gained attention globally after ‘These Boots Are Made for Walkin’ was released in 1965. Her music journey definitely grabs the eyes of many to date, but her work in featured films also won her worldwide appreciation.
Nancy comes from an influential family, but the identity she had made for herself is what makes this musician just-so extraordinary. Sinatra has entered her eighties and has still not decided to bid farewell to her career that has reached yet another peak. We have to say, lucky for us!
Olivia Newton-John, Born In 1948 – Totally Hot
Olivia Newton-John is in her seventies and still active as a teenager? Hard to believe, right? Well, even for us! This fabulous singer, songwriter, and actress is firsthand proof of ‘old is gold.’ Her songs were already on the Billboard for being some of the most successful singles in the 80s, and Olivia kept returning to the charts with a string of back-to-back hits!
There was no stopping this pop diva then, and even now, she continues to entertain the audiences with exceptional performances. Olivia is a truly timeless musical icon. Please add us to the long list of her biggest fans!
Katharine Ross, Born In 1940 – The Graduate
Be it back in the 70s or now, Katharine Ross will never fail to impress us with her performances. The actress did not limit herself only to films and managed to spread her magic on stage and in the television industry as well. Have you seen the long list of accolades to her name? Needless for us to say anything else to explain what a talented woman she is!
‘The Graduate’ actress has touched every possible genre from comedy to horror and has done justice to them all. Despite being in her 80s, it is incredible how active Ross is even today! Super impressive!
Gladys Knight, Born In 1944 – Where My Heart Belongs
We cannot paint over what is already gold. Gladys Knight, known as the ‘Empress of Soul,’ has made some extraordinary contributions as a musician and actress. Ditching the stereotype of giving up your career once you enter your sixties-seventies makes her a super-powerful personality.
‘Before Me’ and ‘Where My Heart Belongs’ were albums among many others that won praise and appreciation from all over the world. For any musician, a Grammy award is the dream, and Gladys has won seven of them! We told you she is the best of the best! Her fans are waiting for what’s next in store for this iconic diva!
Sharon Gless, Born in 1943 – Cagney & Lacey
No one could have done justice to the role of Madeline Westen, better than Sharon Gless in the spy drama ‘Burn Notice.’ In case you didn’t know, the actress has been showing off her prowess since the early ’70s, and made waves with shows like ‘Switch’ and ‘Cagney & Lacey.’
Sharon has now moved to the next phase of her career where the appearances are not frequent, and yet, they continue to be pivotal. That being said, we hope to see the septuagenarian star in her trademark avatar once again to hear the words ‘Forget it, Mary Beth’!
Al Pacino, Born in 1940 – The Godfather
Words like ‘suave,’ ‘classy,’ and ‘versatile’ just touch the tip of the iceberg when it comes to describing Al Pacino. In a career spanning nearly half a century and over sixty films, he has played iconic roles such as Tony Montana in ‘Scarface’ and Michael Corleone in ‘The Godfather.’
Even after entering the eighties-club, Pacino is ready to talk about anything under the sun but retirement. In fact, the legendary actor is upbeat about catering to the next generation of audiences with his latest show on Amazon Video – ‘Hunters.’
Sam Elliott, Born In 1944 – A Star Is Born
Sam Elliott’s packed schedule is a testament to the fact that he is a star who is always in demand. Thanks to his skills and talent, he is considered to be indispensable by many directors of the current generation too.
The ‘70s era performer found his ticket to success by playing the quintessential cowboy in numerous western films. Just as he was about to be written off as a one-trick pony, he unleashed his versatility with a wide range of roles. By receiving eight nominations for his part in ‘A Star is Born’ at the age of 74, Sam has shown the world that he has still got it!
Sean Connery, Born in 1930 – From Russia with Love
Does playing golf on a course near your backyard in the Bahamas sound fun to you? We reckon it does, and that’s precisely what legendary Scottish actor, Sean Connery has been doing since he retired from the entertainment industry.
Sean rose to fame for his portrayal of the world’s favorite British spy in the ‘James Bond’ film franchise, but his career, which spanned from 1954 to 2012, saw tremendous success in several other on-screen appearances as well. We hope he enjoys his retirement as much as we enjoyed watching him perform!
Barbara Mandrell, Born in 1948 – Burning Rage
Music star Barbara Mandrell broke the mold as a country singer. Her career culminated in her being the first person to win the illustrious and coveted ‘CMA’ entertainer of the year award, not once, but two years in a row! A prodigious achievement held only by her.
Barbara stepped out of the limelight in 2000 and is still held in high regard by her former colleagues and peers. Although she says that she misses the spotlight, she made the right choice and has been spending quality time with her family ever since.
Jack Nicholson, Born in 1937, The Shining
It’s fair to say that American actor Jack Nicholson has one of the most recognizable smiles in Hollywood history and that it could either fill you with joy or strike terror into your heart, depending on which role he was playing.
After a career of more than sixty years, Jack hung up his performance cloak to enjoy a quieter life, saying that he doesn’t think he has anything left to prove to the world when it comes to acting. We reckon he’s right, but we do miss seeing his talent on screen!
Philip Michael Thomas, Born in 1949 – Miami Vice
These days veteran actor, Philip Michael Thomas, spends his time with his family after retiring from the entertainment industry, with his eleven children, who are also becoming successful in their own right. That’ll certainly keep him busy for a while!
Philip, rose to prominence when he starred on the hit television show ‘Miami Vice’ alongside co-star, Don Johnson, from 1984 to 1990. Since then, he’s taken part in many other successful endeavors like doing voice acting for a popular video game franchise and being a spokesperson for a cellular entertainment company.
Meredith Baxter, Born In 1947 – A Woman Scorned: The Betty Broderick Story
Make no mistake about it, Meredith Baxter may have semi-retired from acting, but she remains a force to be reckoned with in daytime TV! The actress became an overnight sensation and received multiple ‘Emmy’ nominations for her work with the world-renowned show, ‘Family,’ and has wowed audiences with incredible projects thereafter.
Baxter’s most recent work includes ‘Undateable John,’ where she played the role of Beatrice. For now, she enjoys doing her favorite hobbies alongside her wife, Nancy Locke. Life can’t get any better for Baxter for sure – we wish her nothing but the best!
Loretta Lynn, Born In 1932 – You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)
Country music has produced numerous stars and one-hit wonders, but there’s no one quite like Loretta Lynn! She takes the cake for having one of the most lucrative careers in music history, with an award collection that would impress any artist of today’s generation.
It’s been years since she last released a new song, but people will always remember Lynn as the sweet-singing country girl who won the Artist of the Decade courtesy of the ‘Academy of Country Music.’ After all the hard work she’s done, one could say she merited a well-deserved break!
Sophia Loren, Born In 1934 – Two Women
If there’s one actress who helped define classic Hollywood cinema, it’s Sophia Loren. The dazzling beauty started in pageants before she ventured into acting at the age of 16. It wasn’t until she starred in the 1957 blockbuster ‘The Pride and the Passion’ that movie-goers noticed her stellar acting prowess.
Loren’s career has been on-and-off during her later years and she’s pretty selective with what projects she partakes in. But fortunately, she’s slated to make a comeback in an upcoming drama titled ‘The Life Ahead’ after more than a decade of hiatus – it’s going to be an awesome film with Loren in the lineup!
Robert Wagner, Born In 1930 – It Takes a Thief
They say age is only a number, and Robert Wagner agrees! The actor has been in the film and TV industry since 1950, yet he still keeps a busy schedule to this day. What’s even more impressive is how he has a movie on the way titled ‘Trailblazers,’ which will be released soon.
As a big-name celeb, Wagner’s private life has been put under the spotlight several times, but it only proves how admirers can’t get enough of the silver-haired star after all this time. As such, one can’t help but look forward to what else is in store for Wagner in the future!
