The Oldest Celebrities Still Alive And Thriving In Hollywood

It sometimes feels like there's an age limit when it comes to fame. The older people get, the more often they're pushed aside in favor of younger models. Despite this, though, there are plenty of stars who have continued to find success long after reaching a certain age.

In fact, there are actually quite a few celebrities in their 80s and beyond who still have an amazing career going for them. They prove that when you're passionate about something, you don't need to step aside. You just continue showing everyone why your name matters.

Bob Newhart will be 96 in September 2023

Bob Newhart is the perfect example of a man who's frequently managed to capture new generations and earn their praise throughout his career. During the early days, people came to know him for his album of comedic monologues and his performance in the sitcom 'The Bob Newhart Show.' Those, plus a bunch of other roles, like the sitcom 'Newhart.'

Fast forward to the 21st century, and people who'd never heard of Bob before probably came to recognize him from the Christmas movie 'Elf' or the sitcom 'The Big Bang Theory.' With a career spanning six decades, he's absolutely a talent like no other. However, it's still hard to believe that he's now in his 90s.

Maggie Smith has achieved so much at 88 years old

Dame Maggie Smith is one of the most recognizable names to come out of the UK. In the 21st century alone, she's had so many prominent roles, from the fantasy 'Harry Potter' film series to the period drama 'Downton Abbey.' However, her career stretches back a lot further than the last few decades, all the way to the 1950s.

Movies like the drama 'The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie,' the comedy 'California Suite,' and the romance film 'A Room with a View' all helped her career to blossom. In fact, Smith was nominated for Academy Awards for each of those pictures, winning the accolade for the first two. We imagine she still treasures those achievements now that she's 88.

David Attenborough still devotes himself to his documentaries at 97

Nature documentaries wouldn't be quite the same without David Attenborough. The British TV personality has been responsible for countless documentaries about wildlife and the wider world in the hopes of educating and inspiring viewers back home. We're not sure if he ever imagined that his TV work would ever lead him to become such a beloved name, though.

Even today, he still works hard, whether that be writing books, narrating documentaries, or giving speeches. He might not go on the expeditions that he used to anymore, what with him turning 97 this year. However, he still does what he can to spread the word about this beautiful planet to the people that are willing to listen.

Clint Eastwood's Western successes are still paying off at 93

It's not often that people come to associate an entire genre of film with just one person. However, Clint Eastwood has made such a huge impression in the Western movies and TV shows he's done that he basically embodies the genre. It all seemingly started with the Western series 'Rawhide,' which aired between 1959 and 1965.

After that, he became a go-to man for Western pictures, with his success in these helping him to score other roles in Hollywood too. As a result, he's still busy in the industry today. His most recent film was the neo-Western drama 'Cry Macho,' with Eastwood also directing the upcoming thriller 'Juror No. 2.' Not bad for a 93-year-old.

Jane Fonda's career isn't slowing down at 85

To look at Jane Fonda, you wouldn't necessarily think that she's set to turn 86 in 2023. However, the star was born in December 1937, meaning she's been around for a long time now. Her career has also been going strong for decades, with the actress first coming to prominence in the '60s with several comedy movies.

A passionate woman, she hasn't been afraid of speaking up and potentially getting into trouble in the past. However, that thankfully hasn't derailed her career, with Fonda appearing in multiple movies in 2023 alone. That includes the sports comedy movie '80 for Brady,' which was a wonderful showcase of the older female talent that Hollywood has today.

Lily Tomlin is still all about acting at 83 

When Lily Tomlin began working as a stand-up comedian in the 1960s, we're not sure if she thought that she'd achieve a career with so much longevity. If she didn't, though, then we're glad that she was wrong, because she's one of the funniest stars that Hollywood has ever seen. That's evident in the many accolades she's earned.

Tomlin has seemingly been nominated for every major award in the industry, picking up at least one Tony, Emmy, and even a Grammy for her comedy album in the '70s. Her more recent roles have included the comedy series 'Grace and Frankie' and the animated show 'The Magic School Bus Rides Again,' which have kept her busy now she's 83.

Shirley MacLaine has achieved a seven-decade-long career at 89

Some people jump from one job to another, barely staying in the same position for more than a few years. Shirley MacLaine, though, has a career spanning seven decades, proving a true dedication to her craft. Well, it's not surprising given the talent she has on screen, with her acting earning her an Oscar, an Emmy, and six Golden Globes.

Some of her biggest roles include the black comedy film 'The Trouble with Harry,' the dramedy 'Steel Magnolias,' and the drama 'The Turning Point.' She's also appeared in more recent TV shows like the musical dramedy 'Glee' and the historical drama 'Downton Abbey,' as well as releasing several books. Now she's 89, does she plan on slowing down at all?

Barbara Eden will always be Jeannie to some people, even at 91

There are some stars who will always be remembered for one role, no matter what else they do with their career. For Barbara Eden, that role is as the genie Jeannie in the fantasy sitcom 'I Dream of Jeannie.' It brought her immense fame in the 1960s and has kept her relevant to this day.

Of course, it's far from the only credit she's had, with Eden picking up film and TV roles in the decades since, from the comedy 'Harper Valley PTA' to the drama 'Army Wives.' She's also done voice work for children's TV and released a memoir chronicling her life. However, even at 91, she's still Jeannie to many fans.

Sophia Loren's career is quieter but still thriving at 88

In 1999, the American Film Institute released its ‘100 Years…100 Stars' list, honoring some of the biggest names in American film history. Sophia Loren was included on that list, and she now stands as the only star still alive. That will hopefully remain the case for years to come, too, with Loren turning 89 in September 2023.

Sophia's career reportedly came about after she was encouraged to take acting lessons following a beauty pageant. She began working in films as a teenager and, by the mid-1950s, had scored herself a huge contract with Paramount. The rest is pretty much history, with Loren still occasionally working today. She was even the subject of her own documentary in 2021.

Warren Buffett's immense fortune probably makes being 92 much easier

There aren't many out there who can claim to have one of the biggest fortunes in the world. However, with a reported net worth of $117 billion, Warren Buffett can. That apparently puts him in fifth position, which is an incredible accomplishment for the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway. Evidently, his years of smart investments have paid off for him.

Set to turn 93 this year, it's safe to say that Buffett doesn't need to worry about struggling for money in his later years. However, that doesn't mean the man is ready to just sit back and do nothing for the rest of his days. He's still offering sound advice to those hoping to follow in his footsteps.

Judi Dench has frequently had a Shakespeare connection over her 88 years

Like several people from her generation, Dame Judi Dench apparently focused her attention on theater before transitioning to TV and film. She became particularly known for performing the works of Shakespeare before movies like the romantic film 'A Room With a View' and the spy flick 'GoldenEye' earned her wider attention. From there, things just kept getting better.

Across her 88 years, Dench has been nominated for an Academy Award eight times, with a win coming via her role in the period rom-com 'Shakespeare in Love.' Considering the early days of her career, scoring such a prestigious accolade for a movie around Shakespeare seemed somewhat fitting. It's just a shame that her other nominations didn't result in wins.

George Hamilton is probably best remembered for his commercials at 83

George Hamilton's filmography pretty much speaks for itself. Since starting his career in the 1950s, he's been busy with one project or another, whether that be the drama 'Home from the Hill' or the political drama 'The Congressman.' Despite this, though, there is one role in particular that he's still associated with all these years later.

It seems many people tend to think of Ritz Crackers when they talk about the 83-year-old, thanks to his noteworthy commercials for the product. These might not have won him a Golden Globe Award like the drama movie 'Crime & Punishment U.S.A' did, but it seems they still left a huge impact on many viewers.

Warren Beatty has over a dozen Academy Awards nominations at 86

Some people in Hollywood prefer to spend all of their time in front of the camera appearing in one movie after another. Others, though, like to spread their talents around, picking up roles behind the camera too. Warren Beatty is one such man. He's probably just as well known for his directorial and writing work as he is his acting.

Now 86, Beatty has been nominated for an incredible 14 Academy Awards, but only four of those were for Best Actor. Over the years, he's also been up for Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Original Screenplay, making him one of the most well-rounded talents in the industry. He shows no sign of stopping yet, either.

Chuck Norris has a lot to be proud of now he's 83

It's a little hard to comprehend that Chuck Norris turned 83 in 2023. The man certainly doesn't look like he was born in 1940, but we can't imagine this is something he would want to lie about. While Norris doesn't do as much with his career as he used to, he still stars in things like the odd commercial.

Of course, Norris doesn't exactly need to prove himself to anyone at this point. During his career, he founded two major martial arts systems and made an incredible transition from Air Force veteran to martial art champion to successful movie star. His last film might have been back in 2012, but it was a hit, just like his other works.

Rita Moreno is 91 and still one of the only EGOTs around

There aren't many stars from the Golden Age of Hollywood that are still around, but Rita Moreno is still here. She'll be 92 in December 2023 and add another year to what's already an incredible seven decades in the limelight. She's still one of the only people in history to win an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony.

Not only is she an EGOT winner, but she's also earned a Presidential Medal of Freedom, a Kennedy Center Honor, and a Peabody Award. Plus, she shows no indication of slowing down, with the actress appearing in both the sports comedy movie '80 for Brady' and the action film 'Fast X' in 2023. That is some truly iconic behavior.

Paul Hogan is still remembered for 'Crocodile Dundee' at 83

Compared to some of the oldest celebrities still alive, Paul Hogan hasn't necessarily had the busiest movie career. Since the 1970s, he's only had around a few dozen roles. However, the picture he's best known for is also pretty iconic, with Hogan playing Michael J. 'Crocodile' Dundee in the 1986 action comedy film 'Crocodile Dundee.'

The movie won him a Golden Globe for Best Actor, with Paul's writing contributions also earning him an Oscar nomination for the screenplay. The fame from that movie has persisted ever since, leading to a role in the 2020 comedy movie 'The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee.' He might be 83, but that performance from the '80s won't ever be forgotten.

Pat Boone musical achievements still hold up now he's 89

Trying to compete against Elvis Presley in the 1950s was no easy feat. The King of Rock' n' Roll absolutely dominated the charts at the time, forcing many singers to settle for second place. Pat Boone knows that well, given he was apparently the second-biggest-charting artist of the late '50s with his string of beloved hits.

For many years, he held the record for having the most consecutive weeks on the Billboard charts at 220 weeks. While he might not hold that record anymore, though, it hardly diminishes his incredible music career. Unfortunately, at 89, he doesn't really release new music anymore, but he does still occasionally act, like in the family movie 'A Cowgirl's Story.'

Marla Gibbs might be 92, but she's not ready to stop acting yet

We wouldn't blame Marla Gibbs if she was ready to call it quits from acting, seeing as she turned 92 in 2023. However, she's as dedicated to her career as ever. Some of her most recent roles include on the soap opera 'Days of Our Lives,' the medical drama 'Grey's Anatomy,' and the comedy movie 'A Snowy Day in Oakland.'

She's able to keep scoring new acting work after impressing all the way back in the '70s and '80s when she played Florence Johnston in the sitcom 'The Jeffersons.' Appearing in more than 200 episodes, she was nominated for a Golden Globe and multiple Primetime Emmys, along with winning an NAACP Image Award. It truly defined her career.

Mel Brooks can celebrate his EGOT status as a 97-year-old

Only 18 people have achieved EGOT status by winning an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony, and Mel Brooks is one of them. It took nearly 35 years for him to achieve this, with his Emmy coming in 1967 and his Tony in 2001. The former was for Outstanding Writing Achievement in Variety, with Brooks winning three of the latter.

He achieved Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, and Best Original Score for the musical 'The Producers,' which he'd previously directed the film of in 1967. Now 97 years old, we reckon that Mel can look back on his seven decades of writing and directing with great pride. His work hasn't been without controversy, but it's been iconic nonetheless.

Jocelyn Wildenstein's life has calmed down somewhat now she's 82

Of all the things that the oldest living celebrities are known for, Jocelyn Wildenstein's claim to fame is probably one of the more unusual. The Swiss socialite is a fan of cosmetic surgery and has undergone many procedures throughout her life. All the work she's had done has resulted in a catlike appearance, something that she reportedly sought out.

Some of the money she used for these procedures came from her ex-husband Alec Wildenstein, with whom she had a tumultuous divorce. The split did leave her with $2.5 billion, plus an extra $100 million for 13 years, though. So, it had its upsides. Unfortunately, that seemingly hasn't sustained the soon-to-be 83-year-old, given her bankruptcy filing in 2018.

Buzz Aldrin's 93 years have seen some high highs and low lows

There aren't many people who can claim to do what Buzz Aldrin did in 1969. He and Neil Armstrong set off for the moon in July of that year, with Aldrin becoming the second person to ever walk on the star's surface. It's an achievement that people still associate with the man now that he's 93 and enjoying a quieter life.

His achievements in space travel earned him a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1969 and proved a compelling read in his autobiographies. However, as these books show, things haven't always been smooth sailing over the years, with Aldrin facing struggles with drinking and depression. Fortunately, he has things in his life to keep him going, such as his recent marriage.

Robert Wagner has had one standout role after the next across 93 years

Throughout his career, Robert Wagner has picked up quite a few iconic roles. There was his time as Alexander Mundy in the action-adventure series 'It Takes a Thief,' as well as his years as Peterson T. "Pete" Ryan in the action-detective series 'Switch.' He also played Jonathan Hart across five seasons of the mystery series 'Hart to Hart.'

In more recent years, he's made an impression in the sitcom 'Two and a Half Men' and the police procedural series 'NCIS.' That's all without even covering his film roles either, like the spy comedy 'Austin Powers' movies and the comedy flick 'The Pink Panther.' It's no wonder he's still being cast in roles at 93 years old.

Iris Apfel still seems to be breaking boundaries at 101

We're grateful for every day that Iris Apfel is still with us. She achieved the remarkable accomplishment of making it to 100 years old in 2021, with her 102nd birthday coming up on August 29. That alone is worth celebrating without even considering what an iconic career she's had, especially when it comes to her interior design work.

Apfel once had a contract with the White House that endured for nine presidencies, allowing her to see more of the iconic building than most people ever dream of. Her fashion work has also been highly celebrated, with Iris even being signed to the global agency IMG for a modeling contract at 97. She breaks boundaries, and we love it.

Gene Hackman has picked up many awards over the last 93 years 

Many actors hope to win prestigious awards at some point in their careers as it's a recognition of their work and a sign they've made it in the business. Luckily for Gene Hackman, he's picked up no shortage of awards in his 93 years. That includes two Academy Awards, two BAFTAs, four Golden Globes, and a Screen Actors Guild Award.

The two Oscars came in 1971 and 1992, although he was nominated a further three times during that period. His roles in the neo-noir action thriller 'The French Connection' and the Western movie 'Unforgiven' were what earned him those accolades. However, he's given plenty of winning performances outside of those films, as well as turning his talents to writing.

Bob Barker's game show legacy still stands strong at 99 years old

It takes a special kind of person to host a game show and make it successful. You need to have tons of charisma and be able to strike a chord with people from all walks of life. Luckily, that's something Bob Barker seems to have no trouble with, given his success fronting 'The Price is Right' for over 30 years.

While he might have handed the reins over to Drew Carey some years ago, his legacy on the show will forever be remembered. We can't exactly blame Barker for giving up his hosting gigs - which also included Miss Universe pageants and the game show 'Truth or Consequences' - given he's 100 in 2023. At least he still occasionally makes public appearances.

Robert Redford has contributed greatly to his industry during his 86 years

In 2014, Time Magazine named Robert Redford as one of the 100 most influential people in the world, and we can see why. In his 86 years, he's had a highly accomplished career both in front of and behind the camera. He's also one of the people we have to thank for the Sundance Film Festival.

Some of Redford's notable pictures include hits like the Western movie 'Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid' and the drama film 'Ordinary People.' He also appeared in the biographical political drama 'All the President's Men,' which really put him on the map. It's no wonder he's still directing, producing, and starring in productions to this day.

Ann-Marget has acted and sung her heart out across her 82 years

Ann-Margret might never have won an Academy Award, but she certainly came close twice. She was nominated for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for the drama movie 'Carnal Knowledge,' then for Best Actress in a Leading Role in the fantasy drama 'Tommy.' While neither were wins, at least she's managed five Golden Globes Awards during her successful career.

Of course, as incredible as her acting career has been, performing in front of the camera is hardly Ann-Margret's only talent. In the '60s, she was apparently considered the female version of Elvis Presley, with the singer consequently releasing quite a few albums. One of these was released earlier in 2023, proving the 82-year-old has still got it.

Lee Meriwether's pageant win probably feels like a lifetime ago for the 88-year-old

Lee Meriwether has done a lot to be proud of throughout her 88 years of life. For one, she's one of the few beauty pageant winners to really make a lasting name for herself as an actress. Meriwether found success at the Miss America 1955 pageant, and shortly after, she began picking up one TV show after the next.

This eventually turned into some notable roles, like playing Betty Jones in the detective series 'Barnaby Jones,' for which she received Golden Globe and Emmy nominations. She also began starring in a host of movies, including playing Catwoman in the 1966 version of the superhero movie 'Batman.' Today, she still picks up occasional TV appearances and regularly attends Comic Cons.

William Shatner will always be Captain Kirk to some, even at 92

It's hard to believe that William Shatner turned 92 in March 2023. Then again, the original series of the sci-fi show 'Star Trek' aired nearly 60 years ago now. A lot has changed in Shatner's life since then, although fans still remember him fondly as Captain Kirk. It helps that he occasionally revives the character in one way or another.

Outside of the 'Star Trek' universe, Shatner has attracted attention for the police drama 'T.J. Hooker' and the docudrama 'Rescue 911,' as well as his extensive discography. He also made waves in 2021 when he became the oldest person to fly into space, with the actor making the trip aboard the Blue Origin NS-18.

James Earl Jones can technically consider himself an EGOT winner at 92

When you consider all that James Earl Jones has done over the last 92 years, you wouldn't believe he was born with a stutter. After all, this is the man who voiced Darth Vader in the space opera 'Star Wars' films and Mufasa in the animated movie 'The Lion King.' We'd never imagine talking to be an issue for him.

Of course, those are just a handful of the many roles he's had throughout his career. His incredible talents have won him Emmys, Grammys, and Tonys, with Jones technically an EGOT winner thanks to his Academy Honorary Award in 2011. The man also continues to act today, including appearing in the rom-com 'Coming 2 America' and doing various voice roles.

Anthony Hopkins continues to showcase his acting talents at 85 years old

Over the last 85 years, Anthony Hopkins has won two Academy Awards for Best Actor, and it probably won't surprise you what one of those films was. He scooped the accolade for his portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in the psychological horror film 'The Silence of the Lambs,' with his performance still one of the most iconic in Hollywood history.

It's no wonder that the man was once knighted by the British monarch for his services to drama. His decades of work on the stage and screen have created an unforgettable legacy that he continues to add to today. He's currently filming the drama movie 'Freud's Last Session,' playing Sigmund Freud himself, with several other works in post-production.

Linda Gray is still making waves on stage and screen at 82

Soap operas have played a huge role in American TV for so many years now. However, none have ever hit the mark quite like 'Dallas,' with the mystery of 'Who shot J.R.?' being one of the biggest in TV history. As the wife of J.R.'s character, Linda Gray understandably attracted plenty of attention on the show.

Although Gray has made several returns to the series over the years, she's also stood out in the comedy film 'Oscar' and various other soap operas, including some overseas. She's been a hit on the stage, too, particularly when she played Mrs. Robinson in 'The Graduate' on the West End and on Broadway. Not bad going for an 82-year-old.

Christopher Walken is as busy as ever at 80 years old

Commercial success isn't necessarily what defines a great actor. However, we'd argue that generating $1.6 billion in the US alone from all of your films means you must be doing something right. That's apparently what the box office data for Christopher Walken revealed in 2022, and we're not surprised his movies have been such hits.

The man has an excellent onscreen presence which he's lent to many amazing films, from the crime movie 'Pulp Fiction' to the musical rom-com 'Hairspray' to the adventure drama 'The Jungle Book.' Walken might now be 80, but that has no impact on his astounding career. After all, he currently has a main role in the sci-fi thriller series ‘Severance.’

Tippi Hedren's legacy over the last 93 years is hard to forget

Tippi Hedren never needs to worry about her legacy being forgotten because both her daughter and granddaughter are stars in their own right. Also, it's hard to forget the woman who proved to be one of Alfred Hitchcock's muses, appearing in both the horror-thriller 'The Birds' and the psychological thriller 'Marnie.' The former even won her a Golden Globe.

Tippi was also involved in the creation of the adventure comedy film 'Roar,' a decade-long project that apparently saw dozens of people injured by animal attacks. It's not necessarily the best thing to be remembered for. However, at least her other contributions to cinema and her philanthropic efforts over the last 93 years make up for it.

Cliff Richard's musical success after 82 years is almost incomparable

When Cliff Richard first hit the scene, he was marketed as a British version of Elvis Presley bringing his own version of rock 'n' roll. Evidently, that paid off for him, considering the dozens of albums he's produced since then. Although his music has softened up and taken on a more religious aspect, his songs are as popular as ever.

His consistent success in the industry has seen him receive a knighthood and two Ivor Novello Awards. He also now stands as one of the best-selling music artists in history, having reportedly sold more than 250 million records. In the UK, he also has more top-ten tracks than anyone else - other than Elvis - which is incredible after 82 years.

Joan Collins has achieved one thing after another in her 90 years

Hollywood Stars from the Golden Age might be few and far between at this point, but at least Dame Joan Collins is one of the ones still with us. The actress turned 90 in May 2023, the perfect milestone for looking back on her career. There's so much to celebrate about her past, starting from her teenage years.

That was when she began picking up film roles, although it wasn't until later that she stood out in pictures like the romantic drama 'The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing.' By 1983, she had a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, followed by a damehood in 2015. Now, she still acts, with several roles set for release soon.

Michael Caine's 90 years have given us so many incredible performances

It's hard to give enough love to all of Michael Caine's films, given that he's apparently starred in over 160 of them during his 90 years on this planet. Of course, some naturally stand out more than others, like the epic war film 'Zulu,' the comedy caper 'The Italian Job,' and the dramedies 'Educating Rita' and 'Hannah and Her Sisters.'

Younger generations probably most associate Caine with his roles in the superhero 'Batman' movies, the Christmas film 'The Muppet Christmas Carol,' or the spy comedy picture 'Kingsman.' That just goes to show how enduring his legacy is, with Caine still passionate about acting today. Just recently, he starred in the historical drama 'Medieval' and the dramedy ‘Best Sellers.’

Carol Burnett's ground-breaking sitcom has led to much success in her 90 years

If it weren't for some of the oldest living celebrities, certain things in Hollywood might not have changed for the better. For instance, Carol Burnett really helped to pave the way for women in the industry, with her variety show being one of the first to ever be hosted by a female. 'The Carol Burnett Show' was truly ground-breaking television.

Although that might have ended in the 1970s, Carol's career has continued to bring her great success in the many years since. That includes winning an Emmy Award in the sitcom 'Mad About You' and receiving Grammy nominations for her various memoirs. She also now has a Golden Globe Award named after her, a remarkable accomplishment to have at 90.

Tony Bennett's Alzheimer's disease is affecting him pretty hard at 96

While a lot of these celebrities are still thriving, things are a little different for Tony Bennett. The man was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2016, and he's now no longer able to perform his music live. Thankfully, the relatively slow progression of the illness means he's still managed to make music and keep his career alive.

That includes duetting on two albums with Lady Gaga, both of which contributed to his collection of 20 Grammy Awards. Across his 96 years, he's made so much music and had a significant impact on jazz and traditional pop. He achieved all of this after fighting for the US Army in World War II as well.

Julie Andrews needs no introduction after 87 incredible years

We're glad to say that the hills are very much alive with the sound of music. Julie Andrews might be 88 soon, but she still has so much life left in her. Just last year, she lent her voice to the animated comedy movie 'Minions: The Rise of Gru,' with Andrews also starring in the historical romance series 'Bridgerton.'

These credits join the long list of films and TV shows she's appeared in over the years, including the musicals 'Mary Poppins' and 'The Sound of Music.' While the former won her an Academy Award, the latter earned her a Golden Globe. We also can't overlook her stage work, with Andrews nominated for three Tony Awards but somehow never winning.