Many of the world’s oldest living celebrities have left a lasting impact on entertainment. These stars have continued to work well into their later years, defying age and staying active in film, television, or other creative endeavors. Their stories showcase remarkable careers that span decades, filled with iconic roles and unforgettable performances. Here are some of the oldest celebrities who continue to shine in the spotlight.
Eva Marie Saint (Age 100)
Born on July 4, 1924, Eva Marie Saint is an iconic actress who gained fame for her Oscar-winning role in On the Waterfront (1954) and her lead role in Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest (1959). She has had a career spanning over 70 years, appearing in films, TV, and voice acting roles. In her later years, she provided voice work for The Legend of Korra and continues to be celebrated as one of Hollywood’s oldest living legends. Despite her advanced age, she remains connected to the industry and occasionally participates in public events.
Mel Brooks (Age 97)
Mel Brooks, born on June 28, 1926, is a legendary filmmaker, actor, and comedian best known for classics like Blazing Saddles, The Producers, and Young Frankenstein. His work is credited with shaping the landscape of comedy in Hollywood. Brooks has won numerous awards, including an Oscar, Emmy, Grammy, and Tony, placing him among the elite group of EGOT winners. Even in his late 90s, Brooks continues to work, providing voice roles in films such as Hotel Transylvania 3, and remains a vibrant presence in the entertainment world.
June Lockhart (Age 97)
Born on June 25, 1925, June Lockhart is best known for her television roles in Lassie as Ruth Martin and Lost in Space as Dr. Maureen Robinson. With a career that started in the 1930s, she has acted in film, television, and theater, and has even won a Tony Award. In recent years, she’s participated in voice acting projects, including a video game role in 2013. Lockhart has been a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for decades, and her legacy as a Golden Age actress endures.
William Daniels (Age 97)
William Daniels, born on March 31, 1927, is widely recognized for his portrayal of Mr. Feeny on the long-running sitcom Boy Meets World. He has also made notable appearances in 1776 as John Adams and St. Elsewhere as Dr. Mark Craig, earning two Emmy Awards for the latter. Daniels has been in the industry since the 1940s and continues to interact with fans through conventions and events, staying connected with a loyal following into his 90s.
David Attenborough (Age 96)
Born on May 8, 1926, David Attenborough is a British natural historian and broadcaster who has been the voice of nature documentaries for decades. Starting his career with the BBC in the 1950s, Attenborough became known for iconic series such as Planet Earth, The Blue Planet, and Life on Earth. In recent years, he has focused on conservation and climate change activism, still working on documentaries that highlight the planet’s beauty and fragility. His voice and presence continue to inspire environmental awareness worldwide.
Lisa Lu (Age 97)
Lisa Lu, born on January 19, 1927, is a Chinese-American actress whose career has spanned both Hollywood and Chinese cinema. She starred in The Mountain Road and The Last Emperor, and more recently appeared in Crazy Rich Asians as the family matriarch. Lu is also a three-time winner of Taiwan’s prestigious Golden Horse Awards. Her versatility and talent have earned her a distinguished place in both American and Chinese entertainment, and she continues to contribute to films even into her late 90s.
Barbara Rush (Age 97)
Born on January 4, 1927, Barbara Rush gained fame for her roles in sci-fi films like It Came from Outer Space (1953) and When Worlds Collide (1951). She also made a name for herself in television with roles in series such as Peyton Place and The Young Philadelphians. Throughout her career, Rush worked with some of Hollywood’s biggest names and earned critical acclaim for her performances. She remains a respected figure in Hollywood and continues to participate in events celebrating her long career.
Harry Belafonte (Age 96)
Born on March 1, 1927, Harry Belafonte is not only a celebrated singer and actor but also a passionate civil rights activist. He made history with his 1956 album Calypso, which introduced Caribbean music to a wider audience with the hit single Day-O (The Banana Boat Song). Belafonte was also a close friend of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and played a key role in the civil rights movement. He has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and continues to advocate for humanitarian causes around the world.
Estelle Parsons (Age 96)
Born on November 20, 1927, Estelle Parsons won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Bonnie and Clyde (1967). She is also well-known for her extensive work in theater, both on and off Broadway, where she earned multiple Tony Award nominations. In addition to her film and stage work, Parsons is recognized for her role as Beverly Harris on the popular TV sitcom Roseanne. Even in her 90s, she continues to work in theater, showing her passion for acting has not faded.
Dick Van Dyke (Age 98)
Born on December 13, 1925, Dick Van Dyke has been a beloved figure in entertainment for more than six decades. Known for his roles in classic films such as Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, as well as his hit TV show The Dick Van Dyke Show, he remains active in entertainment even in his late 90s. He made a cameo in Mary Poppins Returns in 2018 and surprised fans with an appearance on The Masked Singer in 2023, showing his enduring charm and talent.
Glynis Johns (Age 100)
Born on October 5, 1923, Glynis Johns is a distinguished British actress with a career spanning over seven decades. She is best known for her role as Mrs. Banks in Mary Poppins (1964) and her comedic performance in The Court Jester (1955). Johns has a background in theater and film, and her unique husky voice and charming screen presence made her a standout performer. Though she has retired from acting, her contribution to the arts remains widely celebrated, and she reached the impressive milestone of 100 years in 2023.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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