You’re familiar with those celebrities you enjoy seeing on TV or in movies, and then they suddenly stop featuring in mainstream films, and over time, you just forget about them? Often, you unexpectedly remember an actor, look them up online, and discover they may be old but are still going strong.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most surprising older celebrities who are still alive or who remained with us for years after retiring, even though many of us forgot about them. Many of these celebrities have led quite fascinating lives since stepping away from the limelight. You won’t believe how well some of these individuals still look at their age.
Sophia Loren, aged 87
You may recognize her as an Academy Award-winning actress, but did you know that Sophia Loren is still thriving at 87 years old? The Italian star has been part of the entertainment industry for over sixty years, and she shows no signs of stopping. Beyond her successful film career, Loren has also ventured into television, theater, and fashion design. She even has her own line of jewelry and perfume. Loren is indeed an extraordinary woman, and it’s incredible to consider that she continues to flourish after all these years.
Anthony Hopkins, aged 83
You might be surprised to find out that some of your favorite celebrities from the past are still alive and doing well.
Anthony Hopkins is one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation, boasting a career that extends over sixty years. Despite being in his early 80s, Hopkins doesn’t seem to be slowing down. He recently featured in the successful film The Two Popes and appeared in another hit movie, The Father.
It’s always thrilling to watch Hopkins on screen, and it’s uplifting to see that he’s still active at such an advanced age. He’s an inspiration for everyone!
Billy Dee Williams is 84.
Billy Dee Williams is best known for his role as the charismatic Lando Calrissian in the highly successful “Star Wars” series. He has also appeared in films such as “The Empire Strikes Back,” “Return of the Jedi,” and the 1989 “Batman,” where he portrayed Harvey Dent. At the age of 84, Williams is still alive and well. He most recently revisited his iconic role as Lando in the 2018 movie “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.” Throughout his life, he has been married three times and has three children. His career in the industry began in 1943 when he was just a child.
Max Baer Jr. is 84 years old.
Max Baer Jr. is an American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. He became very popular among fans for his role as Jethro Bodine in “The Beverly Hillbillies.” Baer was born in Oakland, California, to boxer and actor Max Baer and Mary Ellen Sullivan. His father passed away when Baer was four, and his mother remarried an engineer, with whom she had three more children. Baer didn’t decide to pursue an acting career until his early teens. He debuted as an actor in “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” in 1949. Later, he worked as an actor with Warner Bros. Studios in 1960, which laid the groundwork for his future career.
Tommy Lee Jones, aged 75
You might know Tommy Lee Jones from his performances in famous movies like The Fugitive, Men in Black, and No Country for Old Men. Jones has enjoyed a lengthy and accomplished career in Hollywood, appearing in more than 70 films since his debut in 1970. He graduated from Harvard University and has won several awards, including an Academy Award, Golden Globe, and Primetime Emmy Award.
Despite his successful career, Tommy Lee Jones has experienced personal challenges. He has been married three times.
Rosemary Harris, aged 94
Rosemary Harris, the eldest of three sisters, was born on September 19, 1927, in Ashby, England. Her father was a headmaster, and her mother was a former actress. She began acting while still in school and later attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. After graduating, she worked in repertory theater and made her West End debut in 1947. Younger audiences might remember her as Aunt May in Tobey Maguire’s Spider-Man trilogy. Her career began back in 1948, and she remains active in Hollywood, most recently appearing in the sitcom “Search Party.”
Christopher Lloyd is 83.
Lloyd, born in 1938, is an American actor best known for playing Doc Brown in the “Back to the Future” series. With a career spanning over 60 years, he has been featured in numerous TV shows and films. Lloyd has been married five times. He has participated in a wide range of entertainment platforms, including movies, TV shows, video games, music videos, and even providing his voice for theme park rides based on the Back to the Future theme.
Despite his extensive work, he remains most famous for his role as Doc Emmett. He is set to appear in the Star Wars spin-off series, The Mandalorian.
Nancy Sinatra, aged 81
Nancy Sinatra is an American singer and actress who first gained fame in the 1960s with a series of hit songs. She is the daughter of the iconic singer Frank Sinatra and continues to be involved in music, film, and television. Recently, she has been vocal about political issues, especially women’s rights. At 81, Nancy Sinatra continues to thrive and demonstrates that she is a formidable presence. It is truly remarkable to witness such a legendary figure continuing to thrive after all these years.
Julie Andrews, aged 85
Julie Andrews is an iconic actress famous for her roles in Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music. Despite being in her mid-80s, she remains active. In recent years, she has lent her voice to hit films such as Shrek and Despicable Me 2. She has also been writing children’s books and memoirs. Clearly, age is just a number for Julie Andrews. Her exceptional work is evident as the Queen of England has honored her with the title of dame.
Bob Newhart, age 92
Bob Newhart is an American actor, comedian, and writer. He has been in numerous films and TV shows, such as The Bob Newhart Show, Elf, and The Big Bang Theory. Newhart has earned several accolades for his performances, including two Grammy Awards and an Emmy Award.
He was born on September 5, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois. He started his career as a stand-up comedian in the early 1960s. His first comedy album, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart, was released in 1960 and became the top-selling album of that year, winning a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album.
Iris Apfel, age 100
Iris Apfel is a fashion icon and businesswoman recognized as one of the most stylish women ever. At 100 years old, she continues to look fantastic! Apfel has always had her own distinctive style, which has earned her features in magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. Even at her age, she remains a trendsetter and is frequently photographed at fashion week events. She is also the founder of her own interior design company, which has thrived for over 50 years. Her story inspires many women, showing that age is merely a number!
Chubby Checker, aged 79
Chubby Checker is an American singer-songwriter who became famous in the early 1960s with his hit “The Twist.” His real name is Ernest Evans, but most people recognize him as Chubby Checker. He remains active today, often performing at concerts and events. At 79 years old, he is one of the oldest living celebrities. While his career has had its share of controversies, his music has endured over the years. Truthfully, we are quite lucky that Chubby Checker is still with us.
Angela Lansbury, aged 95
Angela Lansbury is a British actress, singer, and voice artist with a vast career in theater, film, and television. She is most famous for her role as Jessica Fletcher in the American TV series “Murder, She Wrote” and as the voice of Mrs. Potts in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” (1991). Lansbury has been involved in theater since the 1940s, performing in various productions on the West End and Broadway. Additionally, she has lent her voice to Disney films like “Bedknobs and Broomsticks” (1971) and “Anastasia” (1997). Lansbury is a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
George Hamilton, aged 82
You may recall George Hamilton as the charming and stylish leading actor from classics such as “Love at First Bite” and “The Godfather Part III.” But did you know that he’s still alive and thriving at the age of 81, continuing to act? Hamilton has been in the entertainment industry for more than sixty years, and even though he’s taken things a bit easier recently, he still has a few projects underway. He’s quite active for his age. Most recently, he appeared in the 2018 film “SWIPED,” where he portrayed the character of Phil Singer.
Henry Kissinger, aged 99.
Henry Kissinger is a German-American politician who served as the United States Secretary of State. Notably, he is one of the few former U.S. Secretaries of State still alive and the last surviving member of President Richard Nixon’s Cabinet. He also served as a National Security Advisor under the administrations of Presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford.
A Jewish refugee, he escaped Nazi Germany with his family in 1938, later graduating from Harvard University and serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. Following the war, he worked as a consultant for several companies before joining the Nixon administration in 1969.
Mike Nussbaum, aged 98
Mike Nussbaum is an American character actor who has appeared in more than 100 stage productions and 50 TV shows. It is estimated that he has participated in over 1,000 professional performances. He is most recognized for his stage work, particularly in Chicago. Additionally, he served in the military during World War II, working as the Chief of Message Centre. Remarkably, he remains actively engaged in his passion even at the age of 98. Prior to his film career, he also worked as a professional exterminator with his brother-in-law.
Kim Novak, aged 89
Kim Novak is renowned as one of the most stunning individuals ever to appear on the big screen. She is an American actress famous for starring in some of the most iconic films of the 1950s and 1960s. Her career started in modeling before she ventured into Hollywood, where she featured in classic films such as “Vertigo,” “The Man with the Golden Arm,” and “Bell, Book and Candle.” Novak retired from acting in the early 1990s but returned briefly in 2006. Currently, she leads a quiet life away from the public eye, with her net worth estimated to be around $15 million.
Clu Gulager, aged 93
Born on November 16, 1928, Gulager is an American actor, director, and screenwriter. He has appeared in numerous films and television series such as “The Virginian” and “Magnum, P.I.” His career spanned over 60 years, marked by great success. He married fellow actor Miriam Byrd Nethery. Although he is no longer very active in Hollywood, he has left a significant legacy. Many people may not remember him, but it is remarkable that he is still alive and doing well at his age.
Tippi Hedren is 92 years old.
You may recall Tippi Hedren from her roles in “The Birds” and “Marnie,” but what you might not know is that she’s still alive and healthy at 92 years old. Hedren has been married three times and has two children, including actress Melanie Griffith. She has also been a dedicated animal rights activist, striving to protect endangered cats through her Shambala Preserve. Her most recent project was “The Ghost and the Whale” as Tippi, released in 2017 when she was approximately 87 years old.
Richard Chamberlain, aged 88
You may recall Chamberlain from his breakout performance as Dr. Kildare in the 1960s. He later starred in The Thorn Birds and Shogun. It has been some time since we’ve seen him on screen, but at 88 years old, he’s still alive and well. If you’re in search of some classic content to watch, you should definitely check out some of Richard Chamberlain’s work. While younger audiences might recognize Matt Damon as Jason Bourne, you might not know that Richard Chamberlain was the first actor to portray Jason Bourne on screen.
John Astin, aged 92
You might recognize John Astin from his portrayal of Gomez Addams on the 1960s TV show The Addams Family. Those who have watched him in The Addams Family know he was ideally suited for the role of Gomez Addams. Since then, he has taken on a range of diverse roles in both television and film. His most recent appearance was in Starship II: Rendezvous with Ramses in 2015. It’s wonderful to see him still active at the age of 92! Throughout the years, he has been involved in both television and film.
Marla Gibbs, aged 91
Marla Gibbs is an actress and comedian renowned for her role as Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons. At 91 years old, she remains healthy and active. With a career spanning over six decades in show business, she continues to work. Recently, she has featured in movies like Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Witness Protection and has appeared in other TV programs such as “In the Heat of the Night.” She serves as an inspiration to many and exemplifies that age is merely a number.
Loretta Lynn, aged 90
Loretta Lynn, a legend in country music, remains active at 90 years old. With a career spanning more than 60 years, she has produced over 60 albums and earned numerous accolades, including several Grammy Awards. Lynn is also an inductee of the Country Music Hall of Fame. She has continued to tour and perform worldwide in recent years. As an icon in the country music realm, she shows no signs of stopping and continues to inspire and entertain fans of all ages.
Jerry Lee Lewis, aged 86
Jerry Lee Lewis, one of the pioneers of rock and roll, is still alive and active at 85 years old. The “Great Balls of Fire” singer has had a lengthy and eventful career, filled with controversies and comebacks. In recent years, he has performed regularly and even released a new album in 2017. He began his career in 1949 and continues to thrive. It is truly remarkable to witness such a legend still captivating audiences.
Jon Voight, aged 82
The Oscar-winning actor continues to thrive, starring in films and TV series such as ‘Ray Donovan’ and ‘National Treasure.’ He also played a villain in Mission Impossible. It’s astonishing that he’s in his 80s! Not only is he a renowned actor, but he is also the father of Angelina Jolie. At 82, he remains active and is set to appear in a movie called Megalopolis. The film is directed by Francis Ford Coppola, which ensures it’s going to be excellent.
Tony Bennett, age 94
Tony Bennett is an American singer with a career spanning more than 80 years. He has received 20 Grammy Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award, and is famous for songs like “Steppin’ out with My Baby” and “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”. Bennett continues to be active today, frequently performing and releasing new music. In 2019, he teamed up with Lady Gaga for the album “Cheek to Cheek”, which won a Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. Bennett is also involved in philanthropy, supporting groups like the American Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity.
Mel Brooks, aged 95
You might recognize Mel Brooks as the creative force behind some of the most legendary comedies, such as “The Producers,” “Young Frankenstein,” and “Spaceballs.” However, what you may not realize is that this iconic comedian is still thriving at the age of 95! Recently, Brooks has engaged in multiple projects, including a successful Broadway adaptation of “The Producers” and lending his voice to the 2015 animated film “Hotel Transylvania 2.”
Dick Van Dyke, age 95
Dick Van Dyke is an American legend, having been in entertainment for more than 50 years and continuing his career energetically. He began in the early era of television. At 95, the cherished actor and comedian remains active and bringing joy to audiences. Van Dyke starred in “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” which debuted in 1961 and lasted for five seasons. Although he has worked across various media, he is globally recognized primarily for his outstanding contributions to television, particularly in “The Dick Van Dyke Show.”
Bob Barker, age 97
You likely recall Bob Barker from The Price is Right, which he hosted for 35 years. He stepped down in 2007, but he remains alive and well! He even made a guest appearance on the show in 2015. Barker is now 97 years old, and although he is no longer hosting game shows, he remains active in animal rights advocacy. He is a vegetarian and a vocal supporter of PETA. In 2010, he was awarded the “Humanitarian Award” by the organization.
Harry Belafonte, aged 94.
Harry Belafonte is an American singer, songwriter, actor, and social activist. He was among the most successful popular musicians of the 20th century, with over 50 million records sold globally. Additionally, he is a civil rights advocate who has collaborated with figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. At 94 years old, Belafonte is still alive and active, continuing to perform and address social issues throughout his life. In recent years, he has been outspoken in his criticism of the Trump administration. It’s fair to say that Harry Belafonte is a legendary figure who has lived a long and significant life.
William Daniels, aged 95
William Daniels is an American actor, director, and writer, best known for portraying Dr. Mark Craig on the medical drama “St. Elsewhere” and Mr. Feeny on the coming-of-age sitcom “Boy Meets World.” His career in the entertainment industry started in the 1950s. Besides television, he has acted in several movies, such as “The Graduate” (1967) and “1776” (1972). Daniels has won two Emmy Awards and has been nominated for a Golden Globe Award for his role in “St. Elsewhere.” He has been married to actress Bonnie Bartlett since 1951.
Larry Storch, 99 years old
Larry Storch was among the oldest living celebrities, born in 1923 and primarily recognized for his performances on the TV series “F Troop” and “Car 54, Where Are You?” In more recent times, he has made guest appearances on several shows, such as “The Love Boat” and “Fantasy Island.” Currently, he lives in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Even at his advanced age, Larry Storch is still alive and in good health. His career lasted roughly 70 years, with his last role being in a documentary called The Aristocrats. He retired from acting in 2005.
97-year-old Eva Marie Saint
Eva Marie Saint is a Hollywood icon. Although she is 97 years old, she is still alive and doing well. She is renowned for her roles in “On the Waterfront” and “North by Northwest.” Saint has received an Academy Award and a Golden Globe, and she has been nominated for several other awards over her career. She remains active in the entertainment industry. Saint is a remarkable actress, and it is truly inspiring that she continues to thrive at 97 years old. Her involvement in high-quality projects even in her later years is a testament to her talent and dedication.
Norman Lear at 98
Norman Lear is a renowned American TV producer and writer famous for creating hit sitcoms like All in the Family, Sanford and Son, and The Jeffersons. At 98 years old, he remains active and continues to write and produce. Recently, he has worked on shows like Black-ish and One Day at a Time. Lear is a significant figure in the history of television, and it is remarkable that he is still with us today.
Carole Cook, aged 98
Carole Cook is an American actress and singer known for her extensive work in stage, film, and television throughout her career. At 98, she is one of the final surviving performers from Hollywood’s Golden Age and continues to entertain occasionally despite her senior years. Recently, Cook has been praised for both her enduring talent and remarkable career, maintaining an active presence in the entertainment community. Even in her advanced years, Carole Cook remains a powerful presence in the entertainment industry.
Paul Michael Glaser is 79 years old.
Paul Michael Glaser is among the finest actors to have appeared on the big screen. He has also served as a director and producer. His portrayal of David Starsky significantly enhanced his fame and career. He portrayed Detective Starsky on the popular TV series Starsky & Hutch from 1975 to 1979. Glaser has acted in films such as The Great Houdini, The Cutting Edge, and The Running Man. He has directed episodes of television series like Miami Vice. He was married twice, but both marriages ended in divorce. He has three children. Glaser is still alive and remains somewhat active in the industry. He lives in Los Angeles, California.
Ann Margret is 80 years old.
Ann-Margret is a highly iconic actress from her generation. She gained fame in the early 1960s with her performances in movies such as Bye Bye Birdie and Viva Las Vegas. Throughout her career, she consistently worked, featuring in films like Grumpy Old Men and The Insider. Her continued success nearly 60 years after beginning her career highlights her talent and endurance. Ann-Margret serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors and actresses worldwide.
Kris Kristofferson, aged 85
Kris Kristofferson is one of the older celebrities who is still alive, now aged 85. He was born in Texas and is a retired American actor, singer, and songwriter. Kris has been married three times and has eight children. He has acted in over 70 movies and television shows and is considered one of the greatest country music songwriters of all time. Kris has been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He stayed active in music into his early 80s and retired in 2020.
Marsha Hunt, aged 104
Marsha Hunt is an American actress, singer, and model. She gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s, starring in films like “The Diplomatic Passport,” “No Place to Hide,” and “Fear No Evil.” She also achieved success as a model, gracing the covers of prestigious fashion magazines. In her later years, she has remained active in acting, featuring in shows, movies, and documentaries. Additionally, she has been heavily involved in philanthropic activities both during and after her distinguished career. At the age of 104, she stands as an extraordinary example of a life well-lived.
Nehemiah Persoff, aged 102
Nehemiah Persoff was an American actor with a career spanning over 150 television shows and movies. Born in Jerusalem on August 2, 1919, he retired from acting later in life but occasionally appeared at public events. With such an impressive career, it’s clear that Persoff’s legacy and fame will endure for years to come. Although he passed away in April 2022, many were surprised to learn that the esteemed actor was still alive long after he had stopped working in film and television. He reached the age of 100 and lived a fulfilling life.
Jack Rader, aged 101
Elderly celebrities who are still living often have captivating stories to share. Jack Rader is one such figure. At 101 years old, he has led an extraordinary life. Born in 1919, Rader grew up in a small town in Ohio. He worked diligently throughout his life, beginning as a farmhand and eventually becoming a prosperous entrepreneur. Rader has always been energetic, crediting his longevity to a healthy diet, regular activity, and a positive mindset. He serves as an inspiration to everyone, demonstrating that it’s never too late to lead a rich and joyful life.
Walter Mirisch lived to be 100.
Walter Mirisch, born in 1921, is a producer with over 60 years of experience in Hollywood. He is most renowned for his contributions to the Pink Panther series and West Side Story. In recent years, he has continued his work as a producer and consultant on various projects. At the age of 100, he is among the oldest celebrities still active in Hollywood.
While many of his peers have long since retired, Walter Mirisch might not be making movies anymore but remains a relatively active member of the Hollywood community. Throughout his career, he has produced over 60 films, including some of the most iconic and beloved movies ever created.
100 by Ray Anthony
Ray Anthony was once a very talented and consequently highly popular bandleader, actor, and composer. He was part of the Glenn Miller Orchestra and is the last surviving member of that orchestra. Born in Bentley, Louisiana, Anthony began playing the trumpet at the age of eight. In 1933, he moved with his family to Los Angeles, where he started his career as a professional musician in 1935. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, he worked with prominent musicians like Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, and Glenn Miller. During World War II, Anthony served in the US Army Air Forces, and after the war, he established his own band. His orchestra achieved success with the song “Peter Gunn” in 1958. Anthony has also appeared in various films and television shows and has been inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. He remains active as a musician and continues to perform regularly.
Joan Copeland, aged 99
Joan Copeland died at the beginning of 2022 at the age of 99. She would have reached 100 in that same year. But fans were surprised by the news of her death since many weren’t even aware that the elegant actress was still living. It was only after her passing that a lot of people realized her true age. She consistently worked during the 1940s and 1950s, featuring in both film and television. She also appeared in various projects in her later years.
Bert Gordon, aged 99
Bert Gordon is recognized for his career as a visual effects artist and filmmaker. He was married to Flora Lang, and together they had three children, but the couple divorced after nearly 35 years of marriage. He is well-known for creating films featuring oversized monsters that terrorize people. At 99 years old, he is still active. The veteran filmmaker is set to turn 100 years old in September 2022. This milestone will make him the oldest living filmmaker in history.
Bert Gordon’s most notable works include The Amazing Colossal Man (1957), The King Dinosaur (1955), and Earth vs. the Spider (1958).
Jacqueline White, aged 99
Jacqueline White, a 99-year-old retired actress, is currently living in Los Angeles, California. Born in 1922, she started her acting career in the 1940s and appeared in numerous films and TV shows, such as Crossfire and Night Song. White stepped away from acting in the early 1950s, yet she has occasionally appeared publicly over the years. She is one of the few remaining figures from Hollywood’s “Golden Age” and is believed to be one of the oldest living celebrities worldwide.
96-year-old Joyce Randolph
Joyce Randolph, who is 96 years old, remains active. She started her career in the early era of television, featuring in programs such as The Honeymooners and The Jackie Gleason Show. Lately, she has appeared as a guest on contemporary classics like Seinfeld and 30 Rock. Joyce inspires everyone around her, demonstrating that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. She retired from acting in 2000. Professional baseball player Tim Redding is Joyce Randolph’s great nephew.
John James, aged 65
John James is an actor most recognized for his part in the TV show “Dynasty.” He has acted in several TV movies and made guest appearances on well-known shows such as “Pacific Blue” and “Touched by an Angel.” Having been in the entertainment industry since 1977, he continues to work on various projects. Although he may not appear on TV as frequently now, and he doesn’t take many producer roles these days, he remains fairly active in the industry.
Shecky Greene is 96 years old.
Shecky Greene is an American comedian and actor, born in Chicago, Illinois in 1926. He started his career in the 1950s, making appearances on television shows like The Ed Sullivan Show and The Tonight Show. In the 1960s, he gained fame for his stand-up comedy, which frequently featured jokes about celebrities. He is especially famous for his nightclub performances in Las Vegas. Over the years, Greene has also appeared in various films and television series, including “History of the World, Part I” and “Splash.”