Celebrities live a life of glory and fame. Yet, it doesn't come easy. They put their heart and soul into every project they take on and leave no stone unturned in nailing them. Often, such celebs save themselves a permanent spot in their fans’ hearts and hope that their star remains in the industry for as long as possible. Speaking of which, here we have a list of some of the oldest stars who are still thriving.
Paul Hogan – 84
Sometimes, it only takes one big break to catapult a person to immense stardom. The same was the case with the Australian actor and superstar Paul Hogan. It was the title role that he played in the movie Crocodile Dundee that raised him to the status of a superstar.
His entrance into the public eye was when he appeared in New Faces; a TV show where he grabbed everyone’s attention by ridiculing the judges in response to the fact that the judges were making fun of the contestants. Hogan is now in his early eighties and is still as active and hardworking as ever. In 2020, he gave his fans a treat when he reprised his iconic role in The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee.
Johnny Mathis – 88
There is nothing greater than having a passion for something, and it is the very thing that can even lead individuals to achieve greatness in life. Talking about following one’s passion, the American jazz singer John Royce Mathis did the exact same. The world-famous songwriter and singer once sang in a church choir.
Destiny had bigger things planned for him, and it all began when he appeared for an audition in 1955. Eventually, he earned himself a recording contract, resulting in the super-hit chart-topping song 'Chances Are' in 1957. The singer, who is in his late eighties, has taken up acting by appearing in the documentary The Last Old Master in 2021.
Richard Simmons – 75
It is nice to see the growing acceptance of a healthy lifestyle amongst people as time passes by. Nowadays, every person has their own gym routine and their own gym instructor, but things weren’t always the same. Back in the day, the famous fitness instructor Richard Simmons united all together.
He was a popular face in the fitness industry in the '70s and '80s. His famous cassette series Sweatin’ to the Oldies has helped many people adopt fitness as a lifestyle. He also trained people one on one in his gym 'The Slimmons.' After getting thousands of people in shape, Simmons is now enjoying his seventies in his plush mansion, away from the limelight.
Pat Boone – 89
A good voice is a big gift from nature as one can accomplish a lot with it. One of the most popular people who have been blessed with this gift is Pat Boone. He is the acclaimed singer who delivered countless hit pop songs in the '50s.
Boone knew the true potential of his voice and used it to its full potential. He did not restrict himself to singing only but became a popular voice on radio and TV shows too. His career as a singer began in 1955 and made him one of the biggest music sensations of the time. Later on, he also ventured into acting. He continues to work every now and then, even being in his late eighties.
Marla Gibbs – 92
The entertainment industry is lucky to catch Marla Gibbs’s cheeky spirit and sardonic wit. Who could ever forget her iconic role as the wisecracking housemaid Florence Johnston? She entered the '70s scene with a bang and hadn’t left since—five decades later.
Over the years, Gibbs channeled her versatility into many things as a comedian, writer, and producer. The Emmy-nominated veteran appeared onscreen, first in films like Black Belt Jones and Preacher Man before she started working on TV in the groundbreaking CBS show The Jeffersons. Her increasing fame eventually landed her, the sitcom 227, which she hosted for five seasons. In 2021, the actress finally earned her star on the Walk of Fame for her achievements in television.
Jocelyn Wildenstein - 83
There are celebrities that earn their fame through acting, some do it with their singing voice, their comedy, or even simply by being rich and well-connected. Jocelyn Wildenstein got her celebrity status due to her extensive cosmetic procedures. Born in 1940, the Swiss socialite married billionaire art dealer Alec Wildenstein, introducing her to the tightest high society circles.
At Some point, Jocelyn began subjecting herself to plastic surgery, which changed her face dramatically and earned her the nickname "The Lion Queen", and "The Bride of Wildenstein". Several decades later, her marriage may have dissolved (in quite a scandalous manner), but the surgeries remained and even multiplied, even after she filed for bankruptcy in 2018. Oh, and she denies having any cosmetic procedures done, claiming that her looks result from her Swiss heritage.
Bob Newhart – 94
Perhaps, the stammering style of Bob Newhart’s humorous delivery is half the reason why audiences love him. The other half, of course, is for his rare serious knocks as a movie star. Suffice to say, the comic actor is impressively winning at both.
Newhart, a former accountant, kicked off the entertainment industry in the '50s, copywriting advertisements. There, he harnessed his funny bones and taped telephone jokes which later ended at Warner Brothers Label. His comedy album debut, The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart went straight atop the Billboards and won a Grammy. That success led to his own variety program in 1961 and a film career, with notable works in Hell Is for Heroes, In and Out, and Elf. He quit smoking cigarettes cold turkey at age 56 in 1985 after being admitted to the hospital for a nosebleed that wouldn't stop.
Billy Dee William – 87
As an actor of color in the '50s, Billy Dee William had a slow-entertainment build-up. Yet, his earlier two-decade frustrations soon ended as the 1970s picked up. The actor finally got his big break in the much-lauded series Brian's Song. From then on, his filmography momentum went crazy, Billie Holidays, and Lady Sings in the Blues, which led many to praise him as the next Clark Gable.
The breakout star in the blaxploitation genre stepped further, being the first African-American to be cast in the uber-popular Star Wars franchise. The Emmy winner’s character Lando appeared in the film's two sequels in the early '80s and, recently, in 2019, The Rise of Skywalker, after 36 years.
Ann Margret – 83
Her six-decade entertainment career is a testament to how Ann Margret transformed from it-girl to a reputable, serious actress. From doing recordings in the studio in the '60s to screen-testing for 20th Century Fox, the Swedish-American-born talent juggled both, in black and white Hollywood.
Despite her debut record, Lost Love being a minor hit, Margret still captured a nomination for Best New Artist at the Grammys. Her movie love calls, on the other hand, played out even more successfully. After appearing in Pocket Full of Miracles and State Fair, her role in 1963s Bye Bye Birdie shot her to major stardom. She made several movies then, one with Elvis, and later won a staggering five Golden Globes.
Mel Brooks - 97
Mel Brooks, born Melvin Kaminsky, is an American actor and comedian. Known for his irreverent humor and satirical approach, Brooks gained fame for his work in creating and directing hilarious films like Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, and Spaceballs, which have become timeless classics.
Brooks' path to stardom was not all smooth sailing, however. After earning a salary of $5,000 a week on Your Show of Shows and Caesar's Hour, his salary dropped to $85 a week as a freelance writer. He later rose to prominence in the 1970s and emerged as a recipient of numerous accolades, he is one of 18 entertainers to win the EGOT which includes an Emmy Award, a Grammy Award, an Academy Award ("Oscar"), and a Tony Award.
Robert Wagner - 94
Acting in over 100 films and making his appearance in hundreds of television shows, Robert Wagner is one of the most well-known stars in the entertainment industry. Whether you know him from With a Song in my Heart (1952), The Pink Panther (1963), or It Takes a Theif (1968-1970), you have most certainly seen his face on your screen in his 70+ year career.
Robert has been in the public eye since the 1950s, making headlines for his professional and personal life. Wagner was first seen with actress Natalie Wood in 1956 and they soon fell in love and got married in 1957. The celebrity couple struggled to keep a healthy marriage and divorced in 1962. Wagner went on to get remarried; he had a child, and, again, filed for divorce. Following his second failed marriage, he reconnected with Wood and they remarried in 1972 and had 2 children. On November 29, 1981, Wood's body was discovered floating about a mile from their yacht during a trip to Santa Catalina Island. Wagner became a "person of interest" in the mysterious death of his wife.
Maggie Smith - 89
The esteemed British actress has amassed a remarkable list of accomplishments throughout her illustrious career. Her iconic performances in movies like "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" and the "Harry Potter" series have cemented her status as a cinematic legend. But being the legend that she is, she has been known to be quite outspoken, and that has sometimes created some controversy. Dame Maggie Smith has said her work in the Harry Potter films and on Downton Abbey “wasn’t what you’d call satisfying”: “I am deeply grateful for the work in Potter and indeed Downton, but it wasn’t what you’d call satisfying. I didn’t really feel I was acting in those things,” she confessed.
Smith's talent and versatility have graced the stages of renowned theaters and enchanted audiences in countless films. She has received numerous accolades, including multiple Academy Awards and BAFTAs.
Judi Dench - 89
Dame Judi Dench is undoubtedly a highly acclaimed British actress known for her extensive work in film, television, and theater. She is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation, with numerous awards and honors for her performances, including an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Queen Elizabeth I in Shakespeare in Love (1998). Dench has also won several BAFTA Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and a Tony Award. She is particularly well-known for her roles in Shakespearean theater and for playing M in the James Bond film series from GoldenEye (1995) to Skyfall (2012).
In addition to her acting career, Dench has been honored with various titles and accolades, including being made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1988 for her contributions to drama. At 89 years old, she shows no signs of leaving showbusiness!
Quincy Jones - 91 Years
The American record producer, composer, and musician was born on March 14, 1933. With a career spanning over six decades, he's known for producing Michael Jackson's biggest albums, including "Thriller." Jones has won 28 Grammy Awards and worked with numerous iconic artists, such as Frank Sinatra and Aretha Franklin. He has also composed scores for films and TV shows, including "The Color Purple" and "Sanford and Son."
His influence extends across jazz, pop, soul, and film music, making him a pivotal figure in the music industry.
Alan Alda - 88
Most famous for his role as Captain Benjamin Franklin "Hawkeye" Pierce in the television series MASH, Alan Alda's portrayal of the witty and compassionate army surgeon in the Korean War earned him widespread acclaim and numerous awards, including six Emmy Awards. Alda is also known for his work as a director, screenwriter, and author.
In addition to MAS*H, he has had a successful career in film and television, appearing in movies such as The Four Seasons and Crimes and Misdemeanors. Alda was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2015. He has recently opened up about how life with Parkinson's feels like: "Tying shoelaces can be a challenge with stiff fingers. Think of playing the violin while wearing mittens. The silver lining is that I keep getting more confident that I can always find a workaround," he confessed.
David Attenborough - 98
David Attenborough, a renowned British broadcaster and natural historian, has dedicated his life to exploring and preserving the wonders of the natural world. Born in 1926, Attenborough began his career in broadcasting, eventually becoming the face and voice of countless documentaries on nature and wildlife.
Attenborough was initially skeptical about the human influence on climate change, and stated that a 2004 lecture finally convinced him humans were responsible. He remained silent on the issue for many years, but he encouraged people to follow a vegetarian diet or to reduce meat consumption. By January 2013, Attenborough had collected 32 honorary degrees from British universities, more than any other person, and has evolved into a favorite of the royals.
Clint Eastwood - 93
Renowned for his remarkable film career, Clint Eastwood has also garnered attention for his personal life. Despite being 93 years old, Eastwood has had numerous relationships of different durations. While he has been married twice, he has fathered a minimum of eight children with six women, often during overlapping relationships. Notably, he engaged in a 14-year affair with actress and dancer Roxanne Tunis. Eastwood met his wife Maggie Johnson on a blind date back in 1953, and they married barely six months after that. The pair went on to have two children. During such time, Eastwood had a moment of infidelity, resulting in a woman from Seattle becoming pregnant, and ultimately choosing to put the child up for adoption. Furthermore, in 1964, Eastwood's affair with Tunis caused a temporary separation between him and his then-wife, eventually leading to their official divorce in 1984.
There's no denying that Clint is one of the most notable stars still living in the modern era. Dirty Harry has been described as being arguably Eastwood's most memorable character, and the film has been credited with inventing the "loose-cannon cop" genre. He also has a lifetime of accomplishments as a director and actor. He has received five Academy Awards, five Golden Globe Awards, a Screen Actors Guild Award and five People's Choice Awards.
Eric Braeden - 83
The German-American actor is best known for his role as Victor Newman on the long-running American soap opera "The Young and the Restless," which he has portrayed since 1980. Braeden has also appeared in various films and television shows throughout his career, often playing roles that exude authority and intensity.
In 2024, he revealed that he was cancer-free since receiving the diagnosis the year before: "My cancer diagnosis right now is on hold, as it were, and [I'm] very grateful for very good doctors and very good modern cancer treatment which has improved enormously," Braeden told ET's Cassie DiLaura during a February visit to the set of his soap opera. "People shouldn't be afraid of it, you know. Just go and have your cystoscopy, have your colonoscopy, have you heart checked out. Do all that, do it in time."
Warren Beatty - 87
Known for his exceptional talent as an actor, director, producer, and screenwriter, Beatty has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. He is the only person to have been nominated for acting in, directing, writing, and producing the same film, and he did this not only once, but twice: first for Heaven Can Wait, and again for Reds. But despite his undeniable talent and artistic achievements, Beatty has not been immune to scandals and controversies throughout his career. In late 2022, he was accused by Kristina Charlotte Hirsch of sexual abuse, and stated that Mr. Beatty groomed and coerced her into sex when she was 14 and 15. The actor, who had starred in “Bonnie and Clyde,” was about 35 at the time.
Moreover, his on- and off-screen romance with actress and collaborator Diane Keaton garnered significant media attention. Beatty's reputation as a ladies' man has also contributed to his controversial image. His alleged involvement with multiple women, both within and outside the film industry, has been a subject of scrutiny. These scandals have occasionally overshadowed his artistic contributions and led to public fascination with his personal life. Even singer Cher said so herself, "Warren has probably been with everybody I know."
Warren Buffett - 93
Warren Buffett, born in Omaha, Nebraska, is widely regarded as one of the most successful investors and businessmen of all time. Before he made it in the world of business, Buffett developed a crush on a young woman whose boyfriend had a ukelele. In an attempt to compete, he bought one of the instruments and has been playing it ever since.
Even though he didn't win over the girl, Buffett's love of music has endured and even plays occasionally during business meetings, having emerged as one of the best-known fundamental investors in the world and also one of the wealthiest, with a net worth of $104 billion as of May 2023.
William Daniels - 97
Daniels has had a prolific career spanning several decades in film, television, and theater. Daniels is perhaps best known for his role as Mr. George Feeny in the popular TV series "Boy Meets World," which aired from 1993 to 2000. He portrayed a wise and nurturing teacher, a role that left a lasting impression on many viewers.
Daniels' contributions to the entertainment industry have been recognized with several awards and nominations throughout his career. His enduring presence on screen and stage has made him a beloved figure among fans of all ages.
Sophia Loren - 89
Sophia Loren, born Sofia Villani Scicolone, is an Italian actress and international film icon. Along with her captivating beauty and talent, which catapulted her to stardom in the 1950s and 1960s, Loren's career has been marked by numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Actress and a Golden Globe Award.
While Loren has been highly successful, she has also faced her fair share of scandals. In 1962, she was involved in a highly publicized affair with her co-star, Cary Grant, while both were married. The scandal caused a significant uproar at the time, however Loren overcome the controversy and continued to thrive in her career, showcasing her immense talent in various acclaimed films.
Shirley MacLaine - 90
This legendary actress boasts a career that has spanned over six decades. She is known for her dynamic acting skills, versatility, and unmatched talent. Shirley has starred in numerous films and television shows, including "The Apartment," "Terms of Endearment," and "Downton Abbey", one of her latest works. She has been nominated for numerous awards and has won multiple Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and Emmy Awards.
Shirley is also an accomplished author, dancer, and activist. She has written several best-selling books, including her memoir "Out on a Limb," which details her spiritual journey and beliefs. Shirley is also a vocal advocate for social justice and environmental causes. Her outstanding career and contributions to the arts have made her a Hollywood icon and a role model for aspiring actors and actresses around the world.
Dianne Wiest — 76
Fifty years of phenomenal acting, without a tumbling down, definitely puts an actor on a different pedestal from the rest. Yet, there are very few in this class but one of them is Dianne Wiest. The Oscars on Dianne's shelves not only says a lot about her skillset but also the amount of hard work she puts into her craft. Dianne is so influential, she is a role model to younger actors.
For Dianne, it all started in Tennessee. Before long, she followed her dreams and it led her to the spotlight. Her role execution is always with precision, more so, critics have found her performances ever-green. Her dazzling performance in the 2020 film Let Them Talk and also I Care a Lot just goes to prove that, for her, age is just a number.
Joan Collins - 91
Joan Collins, the legendary actress, celebrated her 90th birthday amidst a lifetime of remarkable achievements in the world of entertainment. Known for her mesmerizing beauty and undeniable talent, Collins has left an indelible mark on the silver screen. From her breakthrough role in the 1950s film "The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing" to her iconic portrayal of the conniving Alexis Carrington in the hit TV series "Dynasty," she has captivated audiences for decades.
Beyond her acting prowess, Collins is also a prolific author, philanthropist, and fashion icon. Her unwavering elegance and timeless style have made her a beloved figure in popular culture. As she enters her ninth decade, Joan Collins stands as a true symbol of resilience, grace, and enduring success in the entertainment industry.
Carol Burnett - 91
The classic comedian and writer has had a long and successful career in Hollywood. She first gained popularity in the 1960s with her variety show "The Carol Burnett Show," which ran for 11 seasons and became one of the most beloved programs of all time. Burnett's quick wit, impeccable comedic timing, and lovable personality helped her to captivate audiences across the country.
She has continued to work in the industry for decades, appearing in numerous films, TV shows, and stage productions. Her long-standing success in Hollywood can be attributed to her unparalleled talent, tireless work ethic, and dedication to her craft.
Julie Andrews - 88
The legendary actress, singer, and performer has had a long and successful career in Hollywood. She first rose to fame in the 1960s with her roles in classic films such as "Mary Poppins" and "The Sound of Music." Andrews' stunning vocal range and charming stage presence helped her quickly become one of the most beloved performers of her generation.
She has continued to work in the industry for decades, appearing in numerous films, TV shows, and stage productions. Her long-standing success in Hollywood can be attributed to her undeniable talent, professionalism, and ability to connect with audiences across generations.
Dick Van Dyke - 98
The beloved American actor is best known or his comedic skills and his undeniable charm. As soon as his career began, Van Dyke quickly established himself as a family favorite, on both American television and film. His best-remembered role is almost certainly as Burt the chimney sweep in Mary Poppins, in which he famously speaks with a questionable but endearing Cockney accent. Audiences also loved him as the titular star of The Dick Van Dyke Show.
In time, Van Dyke became a legend of American show business. As a result, he’s received Emmys, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a Kennedy Center Honor. His age does not seem to trouble him at all: he has appeared in a number of movies, like 2018's Mary Poppins Returns, a sequel to the original film, in which he sings and tap dances with as much charisma and vigor as ever.
Robert Redford - 87
Our all-time favorite Hollywood hunk gained a reputation for his portrayal of diverse and captivating characters, as well as his involvement in various political and environmental causes. Redford's breakthrough role came in 1969, when he starred alongside Paul Newman in the highly acclaimed Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969) as Sundance Kid. The movie was a massive box office success and established Redford as a Hollywood superstar.
Later on, Redford, of 87 years old, founded the Sundance Institute, which offers annual workshops for aspiring filmmakers and sponsors the Sundance Film Festival - the largest independent film festival in the United States.
Michael Caine - 91
Sir Michael Caine, born in 1933, has appeared in over 130 films throughout his illustrious career. Caine's breakthrough role was in the 1964 film "Zulu," but it was his performance in "Alfie" in 1966 that made him an international star. He went on to star in many classic films such as "The Italian Job," "Get Carter," and "The Dark Knight" trilogy.
Caine has won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor and is one of only five male actors to be nominated for an Academy Award for acting in five different decades In 2000, he was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II for his contributions to the arts. He is currently a young 90 years old and continues to work today.
Bill Cobbs - 89
A transgenerational artist, Bill Cobbs, is surely in a class of his own. At his prime, he had the world at his feet. His captivating roles in The Hitler and The Brother From Another Planet got all the flowers from critics and film-lovers right out from the films' opening nights. From there, he went on to keep the press and tabloids busy throughout the '70s and '80s, never coming short in his films especially The Slap Maxwell Story and Homeroom.
Cobbs has over 60 years of screen-acting richness on his CV. Also, his influence in the African-American community and the world at large is just as impressive as his behind-the-camera artistry. Though aging has taken a toll on his agility, his name will forever be in our hearts.