Have you ever noticed those famous individuals whom you enjoy watching on television or in films, but then all of a sudden they seem to vanish from the mainstream movie scene and slip from your memory over time? Interestingly, there are occasions when you unexpectedly recall an actor or actress, prompt you to search for them on Google, only to discover that despite their seniority, they are still alive and active.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most surprising old celebs who are still with us or who were with us for many years after retirement but many of us just forgot about them. Many of these celebrities have had pretty interesting lives since retiring from the spotlight. You won’t believe how well some of these people still look at their age.
Sophia Loren, 87
You might be familiar with Sophia Loren as an actress who has won an Academy Award, but were you aware that she is currently alive and thriving at the age of 87? Throughout her remarkable career spanning more than six decades, this Italian beauty has not only excelled in the film industry but has also ventured into television, theater, and fashion design. Remarkably, Loren has even established her own collection of jewelry and perfume. It is truly astounding to contemplate her enduring vitality and continuous success even after all these years.
Anthony Hopkins, 83
It may come as a surprise to discover that some of the beloved celebrities from the past are still alive and thriving.
Anthony Hopkins is one of the most celebrated actors of his generation, with an impressive career spanning over six decades. Although he’s now in his early 80s, Hopkins shows no signs of slowing down. He recently starred in the hit film The Two Popes, and also appeared in another blockbuster, The Father.
It’s always exciting to see Hopkins on screen, and it’s heartening to know that he’s still going strong at such a ripe old age. He’s an inspiration to us all!
Billy Dee Williams 84
Billy Dee Williams is most popularly known for the boastful character of Lando Calrissian in the massively successful “Star Wars” franchise. He has also starred in movies like “The Empire Strikes Back,” “Return of the Jedi,” and “Batman” in 1989. He played Harvey Dent in the Batman movie. Williams is still alive and well at the age of 84. He most recently reprised his most popular role of Lando in the 2018 film “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker”. He has been married three times and has three children. He has been active in the industry since 1943 when he was just a small child.
Max Baer Jr. 84
Max Baer Jr. is an American actor, director, producer, and screenwriter. His role of Jethro Bodine in The Beverly Hillbillies made him very popular amongst the fans. Baer was born in Oakland, California, the son of boxer and actor Max Baer and Mary Ellen Sullivan. His father died when he was four years old, and his mother remarried an engineer, with whom she had three children. It wasn’t until Baer was in his early teens that he decided to pursue an acting career. He made his acting debut in Goldilocks and the Three Bears back in 1949. Then he went on to work as an actor with Warner Bros. Studios in 1960 which laid the foundation for his later career.
Tommy Lee Jones, 75
Tommy Lee Jones is likely familiar to you through his appearances in renowned movies such as The Fugitive, Men in Black, and No Country for Old Men. Having entered the film industry in 1970, Jones has since enjoyed a lengthy and prosperous career, having acted in more than 70 films. He is a Harvard University graduate and has received various accolades, including an Academy Award, Golden Globe, and Primetime Emmy Award.
In spite of his prosperous professional life, Tommy Lee Jones has encountered personal challenges. Jones has experienced three marriages.
Rosemary Harris 94
The first born of three girls, Rosemary Harris was born on September 19, 1927 in Ashby England. Her father was a Headmaster and her mother a former actress. She began acting while still in school and later attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. After graduation, she worked in Repertory Theater and made her West End debut in 1947. Younger fans might remember her as Peter Parker’s Aunt May in Tobey Maguire’s Spider Man trilogy. Her career started back in 1948 and she is still very active in Hollywood, appearing most recently in the sitcom, Search Party.
Christopher Lloyd 83
Born in 1938, Lloyd is an American actor best known for his role as Doc Brown in the “Back to the Future” franchise. His career has spanned over 60 years, during which he has appeared in numerous television shows and films. Lloyd has been married five times. He has appeared in a plethora of different entertainment mediums including movies, television shows, video games, music videos and his voice even appears on theme park attractions that are themed according to the Back to the Future franchise.
Despite making multiple appearances across various projects, his portrayal as Doc Emmett remains his most iconic role. He is set to make an appearance in the upcoming Star Wars spin-off series, The Mandalorian.
Nancy Sinatra, 81
Nancy Sinatra is an American singer and actress who first came to prominence in the 1960s with a string of hit songs. She is the daughter of legendary singer Frank Sinatra and remains active in music, film, and television. In recent years, she has been outspoken on political issues, particularly women’s rights. At 81, Nancy Sinatra is still going strong and showing the world that she’s a force to be reckoned with. It is truly amazing to see such a legendary figure still going strong after all these years.
Julie Andrews, 85
Julie Andrews is a legendary actress who is best known for her work in Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music. Even though she’s now in her mid-80s, she’s still going strong. In recent years, she’s done voice work for popular films like Shrek and Despicable Me 2. She’s also been busy writing children’s books and memoirs. It’s clear that age is just a number for Julie Andrews. Her level of high quality work can be judged by the fact that the Queen of England has anointed her as a dame.
Bob Newhart, 92
Bob Newhart, the renowned American actor, comedian, and writer, has graced both the big screen and television with his exceptional talent. Notable contributions include his appearances in popular productions such as The Bob Newhart Show, Elf, and The Big Bang Theory. Throughout his career, Newhart has achieved well-deserved recognition and accolades, earning him two Grammy Awards and an Emmy Award, among others.
Born on September 5, 1929, Bob Newhart hails from Oak Park, Illinois. Primarily known for his remarkable comedy talents, he embarked on his career as a stand-up comedian in the early 1960s. In 1960, he made his mark by releasing his debut comedy album titled The Button-Down Mind of Bob Newhart, which not only achieved great commercial success but also earned him a Grammy Award for Best Comedy Album.
Iris Apfel 100
Iris Apfel, a fashion icon and entrepreneur, is renowned for her unparalleled sense of style and is widely regarded as one of the most fashionable women of all time. Despite reaching the age of 100, Apfel continues to exude a remarkable appearance. Her individualistic approach to fashion has been celebrated in esteemed publications such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. Even in her advanced years, she remains an influential trendsetter, often photographed at prestigious fashion week events. Additionally, Apfel has established her own interior design company, which has thrived for more than five decades. Her accomplishments serve as an inspiration to countless women, effectively debunking the notion that age restricts one’s potential.
Chubby Checker, 79
Chubby Checker is an American singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the early 1960s with his hit song “The Twist.” His real name is Ernest Evans but people mostly know him as Chubby Checker. He is still active today and frequently performs at concerts and events. At 79 years old, he is one of the oldest living celebrities. His career hasn’t been without controversies but his music has stood the test of time. To be honest we are very fortunate that Chubby Checker is still with us.
Angela Lansbury, 95
Angela Lansbury is an English actress, singer and voice artist who has had an extensive career in theatre, film and television. She is best known for her character of Jessica Fletcher in the American television series Murder, She Wrote, and as Mrs. Potts in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (1991). Lansbury has been active in theatre since the 1940s, appearing in a number of West End and Broadway productions. She has also been a voice artist for Disney films such as Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971), and Anastasia (1997). Lansbury is a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire.
George Hamilton, 82
You might remember George Hamilton as the suave, debonair leading man from classics like “Love at First Bite” and “The Godfather Part III.” But did you know that he’s still alive and well and acting at the ripe old age of 81?
Hamilton has been in show business for over six decades, and though he’s slowed down a bit in recent years, he’s still got a few projects in the works. He is still really active for his age. He recently appeared in 2018 movie “SWIPED” where he played the role of Phil Singer.
Henry Kissinger 99
Henry Kissinger is a German-American politician who served as United States Secretary of State. It is worth noting that Kissinger is one of the few former U.S. Secretaries of State who are still alive. In addition to that he is also the last living member of President Richard Nixon’s Cabinet. He was also a National Security Advisor under the Presidential administrations of two presidents including Gerald Ford and Richard Nixon.
In 1938, he and his family left Nazi Germany as Jewish refugees. After completing his studies at Harvard University, he served in the U.S. Army during World War II. Following the war, he utilized his expertise as a consultant for multiple businesses before becoming a member of the Nixon administration in 1969.
Mike Nussbaum, 98
Mike Nussbaum, an American character actor, boasts an impressive resume of over 100 stage productions, 50 TV shows, and an estimated 1,000 professional performances. His notable contributions to the stage, particularly in Chicago, have garnered recognition. Additionally, he exuded dedication and bravery during his service in World War II, specifically as the Chief of Message Centre. What’s remarkable is that, even at 98 years old, he continues to pursue his passion and remain active. Prior to his venture into the film industry, he had a stint as a professional exterminator alongside his brother-in-law.
Kim Novak, 89
Kim Novak is one of the most beautiful people to ever grace the big screen. She is an American actress who appeared in some of the most popular films of the 1950s and 1960s. She began her career as a model before moving to Hollywood where she starred in such classics as “Vertigo,” “The Man with the Golden Arm,” and “Bell, Book and Candle.” Novak retired from acting in the early 1990s but made a brief comeback in 2006. These days, she lives a quiet life out of the spotlight. It is estimated that she is worth around $15 million.
Clu Gulager, 93
Born on November 16, 1928, Gulager is an American actor, director, and screenwriter. He has been in many films and television series such as “The Virginian”, and “Magnum, P.I.” His had a long and successful career that spanned over 60 years. He married fellow actor Miriam Byrd Nethery. He isn’t that active in Hollywood anymore however he has a left a great legacy. Many people may not remember him but it is amazing that he is still alive and doing well at his age.
Tippi Hedren, 92
You might remember Tippi Hedren from her roles in “The Birds” and “Marnie,” but what you might not know is that she’s still alive and well at 92 years old? Hedren has been married three times and has two children, including actress Melanie Griffith. She’s also been an active animal rights activist, working to protect endangered cats through her Shambala Preserve. Her most recent work was in The Ghost and the Whale as Tippi. It was released in 2017 when Tippi Hedren was around 87 years old.
Richard Chamberlain, 88
You might remember Chamberlain from his breakout role as Dr. Kildare in the 1960s. He later went on to star in The Thorn Birds and Shogun. It’s been a while since we’ve seen him on screen, but he’s still alive and well at 88 years old. If you are looking for some classic content to watch then you should definitely checkout some of the work by Richard Chamberlain. The younger fans might be familiar with Matt Damon being Jason Bourne but you might not know this but it was Richard Chamberlain who was the first person to play Jason Bourne on screen.
John Astin, 92
You might know John Astin from his role as Gomez Addams on the 1960s television series The Addams Family. Fans who have seen him in the Addams Family know that he was perfect for the part of Gomez Addams. Since then, he’s taken on a variety of different roles, both on television and in film. He most recently appeared in Starship II: Rendezvous with Ramses in 2015. It’s great to see that he’s still working at 92 years old! Over the decades he has worked in both television and movies.
Marla Gibbs, 91
Marla Gibbs is an actress and comedian who is best known for her role as Florence Johnston on The Jeffersons. She is currently 91 years old and still alive and well. She has been in show business for over 60 years and shows no signs of slowing down. In recent years, she has appeared in films such as Tyler Perry’s Madea’s Witness Protection and other television shows such as “In the heat of the night”. She is an inspiration to many and is proof that age is just a number.
Loretta Lynn, 90
At the age of 90, Loretta Lynn remains an influential figure in the realm of country music. With a career spanning more than 60 years, she has produced an impressive discography comprising over 60 albums, earning her various accolades, notably several Grammy Awards. Her contributions to the genre have been so significant that she has been honored with induction into the esteemed Country Music Hall of Fame. Notably, Lynn’s dedication has persevered in recent times as she continues to tour and perform on a global scale. As an iconic figure in country music, Lynn serves as an inspiration to many, captivating audiences of all generations with her undying passion and talent.
Jerry Lee Lewis, 86
One of the founding fathers of rock and roll, Jerry Lee Lewis is still alive and kicking at 85 years old. The “Great balls of fire” singer has had a long and storied career, marked by controversies and comebacks. In recent years, he’s been performing regularly and even released a new album in 2017. He started his career back in 1949 and is still going strong. It is truly amazing to see such a legend still out there entertaining the masses.
Jon Voight, 82
The Oscar-winning actor is still going strong, appearing in movies and TV shows like ‘Ray Donovan’ and ‘National Treasure.’ He also appeared in a negative role in Mission Impossible. It’s hard to believe he’s in his 80s! Not only is he an acclaimed actor himself but he is also the father of Angelina Jolie. Even though he is 82 he is still working and is also going to appear in a movie called Megalopolis. The movie is being directed by Francis Ford Coppola so you know it’s going to be good.
Tony Bennett, 94
Tony Bennett is an American singer whose career spans over 80 years. He has won 20 Grammy Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award, and is known for songs such as “Steppin’ out with My Baby” and “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”. Bennett is still active today, performing regularly and releasing new albums. In 2019, he collaborated with Lady Gaga on the album “Cheek to Cheek”, which won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. Bennett has also been active in philanthropy, working with organizations such as the American Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity.
Mel Brooks, 95
Mel Brooks is renowned for creating timeless comedy classics like “The Producers”, “Young Frankenstein”, and “Spaceballs”. Interestingly, this comedic genius is still going strong at the impressive age of 95! In recent times, Brooks has remained active with various endeavors such as producing a highly acclaimed Broadway version of “The Producers” and lending his voice to the animated film “Hotel Transylvania 2” in 2015.
Dick Van Dyke, 95
Dick Van Dyke is an American icon. He’s been in the entertainment business for over 50 years and shows no signs of slowing down. Van Dyke got his start in the early days of television. At 95 years old, the beloved actor and comedian is still going strong and making people laugh. He was the star of the show “The Dick Van Dyke Show” which premiered in 1961. The show ran for 5 seasons. He has worked in different types of media however he is popular all over the world due to his quality work in television especially in the Dick Van Dyke show.
Bob Barker, 97
You probably remember Bob Barker from The Price is Right, which he hosted for 35 years. He retired in 2007, but he’s still very much alive and well! In fact, he even made a cameo appearance on the show in 2015.Barker is now 97 years old, and while he’s no longer hosting game shows, he’s still active in animal rights activism. He’s a Vegetarian and an outspoken supporter of PETA. In 2010, he even received the “Humanitarian Award” from the group.
Harry Belafonte, 94
Harry Belafonte, a prominent figure in American music and social activism, has made significant contributions in various fields. As a singer, songwriter, actor, and social activist, he has achieved remarkable success, with record sales exceeding 50 million worldwide. Belafonte has been actively involved in civil rights movements, collaborating with influential leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. Despite reaching the age of 94, he remains vibrant and engaged, consistently performing and advocating for social causes. In recent times, he has displayed a strong dissenting voice against the Trump administration. Undoubtedly, Harry Belafonte is a widely recognized icon who has led a significant and impactful life.
William Daniels, 95
William Daniels, an American actor, director, and writer, is most famous for his portrayals of Dr. Mark Craig on the medical drama St. Elsewhere and Mr. Feeny on the coming-of-age sitcom Boy Meets World. Daniels has been actively involved in the entertainment industry since the 1950s. Apart from his notable television roles, he has also graced the big screen in films such as The Graduate (1967) and 1776 (1972). With two Emmy Awards under his belt, Daniels received a nomination for a Golden Globe Award for his work on St. Elsewhere. He has been happily married to actress Bonnie Bartlett since 1951.
Larry Storch 99
Larry Storch was one of the oldest living celebrities. He was born in 1923 and is best known for his roles on the television shows “F Troop” and “Car 54, Where Are You?” In recent years, he has made guest appearances on several shows, including “The Love Boat” and “Fantasy Island”. He currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Larry Storch, despite being elderly, remains alive and in good health. He had a career that lasted approximately 70 years, with his final involvement in the film industry being a documentary titled The Aristocrats. He made the decision to retire from acting in 2005.
Eva Marie Saint, 97
Eva Marie Saint, a 97-year-old Hollywood legend, continues to thrive and remain in good health. Renowned for her performances in On the Waterfront and North by Northwest, she has received accolades such as an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. With an ongoing presence in the entertainment industry, Saint remains an exceptional actress. Her enduring success at her advanced age serves as a testament to her remarkable talent and unwavering commitment, as she continues to participate in noteworthy projects.
Norman Lear 98
Norman Lear, an esteemed television producer and writer, has gained prominence for his work in creating beloved sitcoms like All in the Family, Sanford and Son, and The Jeffersons. Despite being 98 years old, Lear remains active and prolific in his career, continuing to contribute as a writer and producer. In more recent times, he has collaborated on projects like Black-ish and One Day at a Time. Lear holds a significant place in the annals of television, and it is truly remarkable that he remains present amidst us today.
Carole Cook 98
Carole Cook is an American actress and singer who has appeared in numerous stage, film, and television productions over the course of her career. The 98-year-old is one of the last surviving stars from Hollywood’s Golden Age, and she continues to perform occasionally despite her advanced age. In recent years, Cook has been celebrated for her longevity and impressive career, and she remains an active member of the entertainment community. Even at her advanced age, Carole Cook is still a force to be reckoned with in the world of entertainment.
Paul Michael Glaser 79
Paul Michael Glaser is one of the best actors to ever grace the big screen. He has also worked as a director and producer. His role of David Starsky boosted his popularity and career. He played the role of this Detective Starsky on the hit TV show, Starsky & Hutch from 1975 to 1979. Glaser has appeared in movies like The Great Houdini, The Cutting Edge, and The Running Man. He has directed episodes of television shows like Miami Vice. He married two times however both marriages ended up in a divorce. He has three children. Glaser is still alive and relatively somewhat active in the industry. He resides in Los Angeles, California.
Ann Margret 80
Ann-Margret, renowned for her exceptional acting skills, became a standout figure in her era. Her rise to fame began in the early 1960s, captivating audiences with her performances in movies such as Bye Bye Birdie and Viva Las Vegas. Throughout her extensive career, Ann-Margret consistently worked on various projects, including notable films like Grumpy Old Men and The Insider. The fact that she is still active in the industry today, almost six decades after her debut, serves as a testament to her remarkable talent and enduring presence. Ann-Margret’s journey is an inspiring example for aspiring actors and actresses across the globe.
Kris Kristofferson, 85
Kris Kristofferson, an 85-year-old living legend, stands among the seasoned celebrities who have withstood the test of time. Born in Texas, Kris is a former American actor, singer, and songwriter. Throughout his life, he has tied the knot three times and has been blessed with eight children. Kris has showcased his talent in over 70 movies and TV shows, captivating audiences with his versatile performances. Regarded as one of the greatest country music songwriters in history, Kris received the prestigious honor of being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. He continued to actively pursue his passion for music well into his early 80s and officially retired in 2020.
Marsha Hunt, 104
Marsha Hunt, an American actress, singer, and model, gained popularity during the 1950s and 1960s with notable performances in movies like The Diplomatic Passport, No Place to Hide, and Fear No Evil. Alongside her successful acting career, she also excelled as a model, gracing the covers of prestigious fashion magazines. Even in her later years, Hunt remained active in the entertainment industry, appearing in various television shows, movies, and documentaries. Throughout her illustrious career, she devoted herself to philanthropic endeavors, advocating for important causes. Now at the impressive age of 104, Hunt serves as a remarkable example of a fulfilling life.
Nehemiah Persoff 102
Born on August 2, 1919, in Jerusalem, Nehemiah Persoff is an accomplished American actor with an extensive resume featuring more than 150 appearances in television shows and movies.
In recent years, Persoff has retired from acting, but he still made some occasional appearances at public events. With such an amazing career and so many movies and shows under his belt, it is safe to say that Persoff’s career and his popularity will long outlive him. Persoff passed away in April 2022 however many people were unaware that the veteran actor was still alive way after he was done with movies and shows. He was a centurion and lived a great life.
Jack Rader, 101
Jack Rader, an elderly celebrity who is still alive, possesses captivating tales to share, typical of old celebrities. At the age of 101, he has experienced an extraordinary existence. Born in 1919, Rader spent his childhood in a small Ohio town. Throughout his life, he toiled relentlessly, commencing his career as a farm laborer and ultimately ascending to become a prosperous entrepreneur. Rader has perpetually embraced an active lifestyle, attributing his longevity to nutritious eating, physical activity, and a positive mindset. Rader serves as a source of inspiration to everyone, demonstrating that it is never too late to lead a gratifying life.
Walter Mirisch 100
With a birth year of 1921, Walter Mirisch has enjoyed a prolific Hollywood career spanning more than six decades. Renowned for his contributions to the Pink Panther series and West Side Story, he remains active as a producer and advisor on diverse projects. Remarkably, even at the age of 100, he stands as one of Hollywood’s most venerable working figures.
While many of his peers have already left the film industry, Walter Mirisch, though no longer actively producing movies, continues to participate actively in the Hollywood community. Throughout his career, he successfully brought more than 60 films to life, some of which are now considered timeless classics, adored by audiences worldwide.
Ray Anthony 100
Ray Anthony used to be a very skilled and thus very popular bandleader, actor and composer. He used to be part of the Glenn Miller Orchestra. He is the last living member of the respective Orchestra. Anthony was born in Bentley, Louisiana and began playing trumpet at age eight. He moved to Los Angeles with his family in 1933, and began working as a professional musician in 1935. He worked with Benny Goodman, Tommy Dorsey, and Glenn Miller during the 1930s and 1940s. Anthony served in the US Army Air Forces during World War II, and after the war he formed his own band. His orchestra had a hit with the song “Peter Gunn” in 1958. Anthony has appeared in several films and television shows, and he was inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame. He is still active as a musician, and continues to perform regularly.
Joan Copeland, 99
At the beginning of 2022, Joan Copeland, an esteemed actress, passed away at 99 years old. Surprisingly, her death came as a shock to many fans who were unaware of her being alive as she maintained a low profile. It was only upon her passing that people discovered her true age, as she had a successful career spanning the 1940s and 1950s in both film and television. Even in her later years, she continued to work on various projects, showcasing her versatility.
Bert Gordon, 99
Bert Gordon, renowned for his contributions as both a visual effects artist and filmmaker, entered into a marital union with Flora Lang, resulting in the birth of three children. However, after nearly 35 years of marriage, they decided to part ways. Bert Gordon gained notoriety for his involvement in creating cinematic experiences featuring gigantic creatures that instilled fear in their audiences. Remarkably, at the age of 99, he continues to thrive. As September of 2022 approaches, this veteran filmmaker is set to reach the remarkable milestone of turning 100 years old, effectively cementing his position as the oldest living filmmaker in history.
Bert Gordon’s most notable work is The Amazing Colossal Man (1957), The King Dinosaur (1955), and Earth vs. the Spider (1958).
Jacqueline White, 99
Jacqueline White is a 99 year old retired actress who is still alive and living in Los Angeles, California. She was born in 1922 and began her acting career in the 1940s. She appeared in dozens of films and television shows over the course of her career, including Crossfire and Night Song. White retired from acting in the early 1950s, but she has continued to make occasional public appearances over the years. White is one of the last surviving members of Hollywood’s “Golden Age.” It’s estimated that she is currently one of the oldest living celebrities in the world.
Joyce Randolph, 96
Joyce Randolph is 96 years old and still going strong. She began her career in the early days of television, appearing on shows like The Honeymooners and The Jackie Gleason Show. In recent years, she has made guest appearances on such modern classics as Seinfeld and 30 Rock. Joyce is an inspiration to all who know her, proving that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. She retired from acting in the year 2000. The professional baseball player Tim Redding is the great nephew of Joyce Randolph.
John James 65
John James is an actor best known for his role on the television series “Dynasty.” He has appeared in a number of made-for-TV movies and guest starred on popular shows like “Pacific Blue” and “Touched by an Angel.” He has been in the industry since 1977 and still has a few projects going on. You might not see him on the television that much anymore and he might not take that many producer jobs these days as well but he is still relatively active in the industry.
Shecky Greene 96
Born in Chicago, Illinois in 1926, Shecky Greene is a famed American comedian and actor. Making his debut in the 1950s on popular television programs like The Ed Sullivan Show and The Tonight Show, he quickly established himself in the entertainment industry. During the 1960s, his stand-up comedy routine, frequently featuring humorous anecdotes about famous personalities, gained him significant recognition. Primarily recognized for his exceptional stage performances in Las Vegas nightclubs, Greene has also graced the big and small screens, appearing in notable productions such as History of the World Part 1 and Splash.