Clint Eastwood and Hollywood’s Oldest Active Actors
Many actors slow down as they get older, but some Hollywood stars keep working long into their later years. These actors have careers that span decades, and they continue to take on new and challenging roles. They are a testament to enduring talent and a passion for filmmaking that doesn’t fade with age. From directing to starring in major productions, these performers prove that age is just a number in the world of cinema.
Clint Eastwood is a prime example of an actor and director who continues to work well into his 90s. He has a long and successful history in Hollywood, from his early roles in Westerns to his award-winning work as a director. Alongside him, a number of other veteran actors are also actively contributing to the film industry, taking on roles in both movies and television. This list highlights some of the oldest and most active actors in Hollywood.
Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood was born in 1930 and remains a powerful force in Hollywood. He is not only a legendary actor but also a highly respected director. His work has earned him numerous awards and a reputation for efficiency and artistic vision on set.
In his 90s, Eastwood directed and produced the film Cry Macho (2021), in which he also starred. He continues to work on new projects, directing the upcoming thriller Juror #2, which demonstrates his unwavering commitment to filmmaking.
Dick Van Dyke
Dick Van Dyke, born in 1925, is one of the industry’s most beloved and enduring performers. His career has spanned over seven decades, highlighted by his iconic roles in classics like Mary Poppins (1964) and The Dick Van Dyke Show (1961-1966).
Even in his late 90s, Van Dyke has not retired from acting. He recently made a guest appearance on the soap opera Days of Our Lives in 2023 and had a role in the film Capture the Flag, which is currently in post-production.
Lois Smith
Lois Smith, born in 1930, has built a remarkable career with a wide range of roles in film, television, and theater. She is known for her memorable supporting performances in films like East of Eden (1955), Twister (1996), and Lady Bird (2017).
Smith continues to be a sought-after actress. She appeared in Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch (2021) and the 2024 film The Uninvited, showcasing her lasting talent and versatility.
Mel Brooks
Mel Brooks, born in 1926, is a legendary figure in comedy. He is a writer, director, actor, and producer known for his parody films like The Producers, Blazing Saddles, and Young Frankenstein. His unique comedic style has left a lasting mark on Hollywood.
Brooks remains active in his 90s. He was a writer and producer for the recent television series History of the World, Part II (2023), a sequel to his 1981 film, in which he also appeared.
June Squibb
June Squibb, born in 1929, had a long career in theater before gaining wider recognition in film later in her life. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in Alexander Payne’s Nebraska (2013).
Squibb’s career is more active than ever. In 2024, at the age of 94, she took on her first leading role in the action-comedy Thelma. She also had roles in the film Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead and the series Palm Royale.
William Shatner
William Shatner, born in 1931, is an icon of popular culture, primarily for his role as Captain James T. Kirk in the Star Trek franchise. His career spans over 70 years and includes work as an actor, director, author, and musician.
Shatner continues to be a vibrant presence in entertainment. In 2021, he made headlines by traveling to space aboard a Blue Origin flight, becoming the oldest person to do so. He also remains active with voice work and television appearances.
James Earl Jones
James Earl Jones, born in 1931, is one of the most recognized voices in the world. He is famous for voicing Darth Vader in the Star Wars saga and Mufasa in Disney’s The Lion King. He has also had a distinguished career on stage and in film.
Though he has stepped back from many roles, his iconic voice continues to be used. In 2022, he allowed an AI program to replicate his voice for future Star Wars projects, ensuring the legacy of Darth Vader’s sound continues. He also appeared in Coming 2 America (2021).
Robert Duvall
Robert Duvall, born in 1931, is a highly respected actor known for his powerful and versatile performances. He has appeared in some of the most acclaimed films of all time, including The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, and Tender Mercies, for which he won an Oscar.
Duvall continues to work in film. He starred alongside Adam Sandler in the basketball drama Hustle (2022) and appeared in the film The Pale Blue Eye (2022), demonstrating his enduring talent.
Rita Moreno
Rita Moreno, born in 1931, is one of the few performers to have won an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award). She is celebrated for her role as Anita in West Side Story (1961) and has had a prolific career in film, television, and theater.
Moreno remains incredibly active. She appeared in the West Side Story (2021) remake, the action film Fast X (2023), and the Netflix movie Family Switch (2023). She also stars in the movie The Prank (2024).
Michael Caine
Sir Michael Caine, born in 1933, is a British film icon known for his distinctive Cockney accent. He has starred in over 160 films across eight decades, with acclaimed roles in movies like Alfie, The Dark Knight trilogy, and Hannah and Her Sisters.
Caine recently starred in the film The Great Escaper (2023), portraying a real-life war veteran. While he has hinted at retirement, his long and storied career makes him one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures.
Dame Judi Dench
Dame Judi Dench, born in 1934, is one of Britain’s most acclaimed actresses, celebrated for her work in theater, film, and television. She is known internationally for her role as M in the James Bond series, as well as for films like Shakespeare in Love and Belfast.
Despite dealing with age-related macular degeneration that affects her eyesight, Dench continues to act. She starred in the film Allelujah (2022) and remains a revered figure in the acting world.
George Takei
George Takei, born in 1937, is best known for his role as Hikaru Sulu in the original Star Trek series. Beyond acting, he is a prominent activist for LGBTQ+ rights and has a significant presence on social media.
Takei continues to be active, particularly with voice work. He lent his voice to the animated series Blue Eye Samurai (2023) and appeared in a 2024 episode of Avatar: The Last Airbender.
Jane Fonda
Jane Fonda, born in 1937, is a two-time Academy Award-winning actress, writer, and activist. She rose to fame with films like Klute (1971) and Coming Home (1978) and later became a fitness icon.
Fonda remains a prominent figure in Hollywood. She starred in the long-running Netflix series Grace and Frankie until 2022 and appeared in films like 80 for Brady (2023) and Book Club: The Next Chapter (2023).
Sir Anthony Hopkins
Sir Anthony Hopkins, born in 1937, is a Welsh actor renowned for his intense and captivating performances. He is globally recognized for his Oscar-winning role as Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs.
Hopkins continues to deliver powerful work. He won his second Academy Award for Best Actor for The Father (2020) at the age of 83. He recently starred in the film One Life (2023) and the Zack Snyder movie Rebel Moon – Part Two: The Scargiver (2024).
Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman, born in 1937, is one of Hollywood’s most respected actors, known for his authoritative voice and calm demeanor. His acclaimed roles include films like The Shawshank Redemption, Driving Miss Daisy, and Million Dollar Baby, for which he won an Oscar.
Freeman remains very active in the film industry. He recently appeared in the films A Good Person (2023) and The Ritual Killer (2023) and has several projects in various stages of production.
Jon Voight
Jon Voight, born in 1938, has had a long and acclaimed career in Hollywood. He gained fame with his powerful performance in Midnight Cowboy (1969) and won an Academy Award for Coming Home (1978).
Voight continues to act in both film and television. He has a recurring role on the television series Ray Donovan and appeared in the 2024 film The Painter.
Sir Ian McKellen
Sir Ian McKellen, born in 1939, is a celebrated English actor of stage and screen. He is known to millions as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Magneto in the X-Men films. His career is marked by critical acclaim for his Shakespearean and modern roles.
McKellen continues to work extensively in theater and film. He recently starred in the thriller The Critic (2023) and remains a towering figure in the arts.
Lily Tomlin
Lily Tomlin, born in 1939, is a beloved actress, comedian, and writer. She first gained national attention on the variety show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In and has had a successful career in film, television, and theater.
Tomlin recently co-starred with Jane Fonda in the hit Netflix series Grace and Frankie (2015-2022). She also appeared in the film 80 for Brady (2023) and continues to be a prominent voice in entertainment.
Al Pacino
Al Pacino, born in 1940, is a legendary actor considered one of the greats of his generation. He is known for iconic roles in films like The Godfather series, Scarface, and Scent of a Woman, for which he won an Oscar.
Pacino remains a major presence in Hollywood. He starred in House of Gucci (2021) and has several upcoming film projects, proving that his passion for acting is as strong as ever.
Sir Patrick Stewart
Sir Patrick Stewart, born in 1940, is an English actor beloved for his roles as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor Charles Xavier in the X-Men film series. He is also a highly respected classical stage actor.
Stewart recently reprised his most famous role in the series Star Trek: Picard, which concluded in 2023. He also continues to do voice work, including a role in the 2023 film Trolls Band Together.
Martin Sheen
Martin Sheen, born in 1940, has had a distinguished career in film, television, and theater. He is well known for his role in the film Apocalypse Now (1979) and as President Josiah Bartlet on the acclaimed television series The West Wing.
Sheen continues to act in various projects. He recently co-starred with his son Emilio Estevez in the film The Way (2010) and its upcoming sequel, and he also appeared in the series Grace and Frankie.
Christopher Walken
Christopher Walken, born in 1943, is known for his distinctive voice and unique screen presence. An Academy Award winner for The Deer Hunter (1978), he has appeared in a wide variety of films, from comedies to intense dramas.
Walken continues to be a sought-after actor. He recently appeared in the acclaimed television series Severance and had a significant role in the blockbuster film Dune: Part Two (2024).
Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro, born in 1943, is one of the most celebrated actors in film history. Known for his collaborations with director Martin Scorsese, he has delivered legendary performances in films like Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas.
De Niro remains a major force in cinema. He recently earned an Academy Award nomination for his role in Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon (2023) and starred in the comedy About My Father (2023).
Joe Pesci
Joe Pesci, born in 1943, is known for his intense and memorable performances, often in gangster films. He won an Academy Award for his role in Goodfellas (1990) and is also beloved for his comedic turn in Home Alone.
After a period of retirement, Pesci returned to acting in a big way. He co-starred in Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman (2019) and currently stars in the Peacock series Bupkis alongside Pete Davidson.
Ben Kingsley
Sir Ben Kingsley, born in 1943, is a British actor who gained international fame for his Oscar-winning portrayal of Mahatma Gandhi in the film Gandhi (1982). He is known for his incredible range and ability to disappear into his characters.
Kingsley maintains a busy work schedule. He recently appeared in Wes Anderson’s The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023) and the film Dalíland (2022), where he played the famous artist Salvador Dalí.
Michael Douglas
Michael Douglas, born in 1944, is an actor and producer who has been a Hollywood star for decades. The son of actor Kirk Douglas, he has carved out his own iconic career with films like Wall Street, for which he won an Oscar, and Fatal Attraction.
Douglas continues to be active in high-profile projects. He stars as Hank Pym in Marvel’s Ant-Man films, including Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023), and portrayed Benjamin Franklin in the 2024 Apple TV+ series Franklin.
Danny DeVito
Danny DeVito, born in 1944, is an actor, comedian, director, and producer known for his energetic performances and distinct persona. He gained fame on the TV series Taxi and has starred in films like Twins and Batman Returns.
DeVito is a main cast member of the long-running sitcom It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. He also continues to appear in films, with recent roles in Haunted Mansion (2023) and the animated movie Migration (2023).
F. Murray Abraham
F. Murray Abraham, born in 1939, is an actor with a long career in film, television, and theater. He is best known for his Academy Award-winning role as Antonio Salieri in the film Amadeus (1984).
Abraham has recently enjoyed a career resurgence. He had a prominent role in the second season of the hit HBO series The White Lotus (2022) and provides voice work for the Marvel series Moon Knight.
Holland Taylor
Holland Taylor, born in 1943, is an actress and playwright with a career spanning film, television, and stage. She is widely recognized for her Emmy-winning role as Judge Roberta Kittleson on The Practice and as Evelyn Harper on Two and a Half Men.
Taylor remains active in television. She has had recent roles in the series The Morning Show and the comedy Billions, showcasing her sharp wit and versatile talent.
Geoffrey Rush
Geoffrey Rush, born in 1951, is an acclaimed Australian actor and one of the few performers to have won the “Triple Crown of Acting” (an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Tony Award). He is known for his role as Captain Barbossa in the Pirates of the Caribbean series and for his Oscar-winning performance in Shine (1996).
Rush continues to take on complex roles. He recently starred in the film The King’s Daughter (2022) and remains a respected figure in both Hollywood and international cinema.
Harrison Ford
Harrison Ford, born in 1942, is one of the most successful and beloved movie stars of all time. He is famous for his iconic roles as Han Solo in the Star Wars saga and the adventurous archaeologist Indiana Jones.
Ford shows no signs of slowing down. He reprised his iconic role in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023) and currently stars in two television series: the Yellowstone prequel 1923 and the Apple TV+ comedy Shrinking.
Kathy Bates
Kathy Bates, born in 1948, is an actress and director known for her versatile and powerful performances. She won an Academy Award for her chilling portrayal of Annie Wilkes in Misery (1990) and has starred in numerous films and television series.
Bates remains a prominent actress in Hollywood. She recently starred in the film Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret. (2023) and had a lead role in the CBS series Matlock, which premiered in 2024.
Sam Elliott
Sam Elliott, born in 1944, is an actor known for his distinctive deep voice, thick mustache, and Western persona. He has had a long career in film and television, with memorable roles in The Big Lebowski, Tombstone, and A Star Is Born, for which he received an Oscar nomination.
Elliott recently starred in the popular Yellowstone prequel series 1883 (2021-2022), a role that earned him significant acclaim. He also continues to do voice work, notably on the animated series Family Guy.
Sylvester Stallone
Sylvester Stallone, born in 1946, is a major action star who created two of cinema’s most enduring characters: boxer Rocky Balboa and Vietnam veteran John Rambo. He is also a successful writer, director, and producer.
Stallone is still very active in film and television. He stars in the hit Paramount+ series Tulsa King and appeared in the films Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (2023) and Expend4bles (2023).
Susan Sarandon
Susan Sarandon, born in 1946, is an actress and activist known for her strong, intelligent characters. She won an Academy Award for her role in Dead Man Walking (1995) and has starred in classics like Thelma & Louise and The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Sarandon continues to work consistently in film and television. She recently appeared in the DC superhero film Blue Beetle (2023) and the romantic comedy Maybe I Do (2023).
James Cromwell
James Cromwell, born in 1940, is a character actor and activist known for his tall stature and authoritative presence. He received an Academy Award nomination for his role as Farmer Hoggett in the movie Babe (1995).
Cromwell remains a busy actor, often playing roles that align with his political activism. He had a recurring role on the acclaimed HBO series Succession and continues to appear in various film and television projects.
Meryl Streep
Meryl Streep, born in 1949, is widely regarded as one of the greatest actresses of all time. She holds the record for the most Academy Award nominations for an actor and has won three times for her work in films like Kramer vs. Kramer, Sophie’s Choice, and The Iron Lady.
Streep continues to take on high-profile roles. She recently joined the cast of the popular Hulu series Only Murders in the Building for its third season and appeared in the film Don’t Look Up (2021).
Sigourney Weaver
Sigourney Weaver, born in 1949, is a pioneering actress known for her groundbreaking role as Ellen Ripley in the Alien franchise. She has demonstrated incredible range in comedies like Ghostbusters and dramas like Gorillas in the Mist.
Weaver remains a major star. She recently reprised her role in James Cameron’s blockbuster Avatar: The Way of Water (2022) and has several upcoming projects, including the film The Gorge.
Bill Nighy
Bill Nighy, born in 1949, is an English actor known for his distinctive charm and quirky screen presence. He has gained international recognition for roles in films like Love Actually, the Pirates of the Caribbean series, and About Time.
Nighy continues to receive critical acclaim for his work. He earned his first Academy Award nomination for his lead role in the film Living (2022) and recently voiced a character in the Netflix animated film The Magician’s Elephant (2023).
Mary Steenburgen
Mary Steenburgen, born in 1953, is an Academy Award-winning actress known for her warm and engaging presence. She won an Oscar for the film Melvin and Howard (1980) and has starred in beloved movies like Back to the Future Part III and Step Brothers.
Steenburgen remains active in film and television. She recently co-starred in the film Book Club: The Next Chapter (2023) and had a recurring role on the musical-comedy series Zoey’s Extraordinary Playlist.
Liam Neeson
Liam Neeson, born in 1952, is an actor from Northern Ireland who gained international stardom for his role in Schindler’s List (1993). In the latter part of his career, he has become a popular action hero with the success of the Taken franchise.
Neeson continues to be a prolific action star. He regularly appears in multiple thrillers per year, with recent films including Retribution (2023) and In the Land of Saints and Sinners (2023).
Steve Martin
Steve Martin, born in 1945, is a legendary comedian, actor, writer, producer, and musician. He rose to fame with his stand-up comedy in the 1970s before becoming a major movie star with films like The Jerk, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, and Father of the Bride.
Martin is currently enjoying a career highlight, co-creating and starring in the critically acclaimed Hulu series Only Murders in the Building alongside his longtime friend Martin Short and Selena Gomez.
Martin Short
Martin Short, born in 1950, is a Canadian-American actor, comedian, singer, and writer. He is known for his high-energy comedic characters, many of which were developed on the sketch comedy shows SCTV and Saturday Night Live.
Short is currently starring in the hit series Only Murders in the Building. His chemistry with co-star Steve Martin has been celebrated for decades, and the show has introduced his comedic genius to a new generation of fans.
James Brolin
James Brolin, born in 1940, is an actor, producer, and director with a career spanning over six decades. He is known for his roles in television shows like Marcus Welby, M.D. and films like The Amityville Horror. He is also the father of actor Josh Brolin.
Brolin continues to work steadily. He recently did voice work for the Disney-Pixar film Lightyear (2022) and has appeared in several television movies and series.
Carol Burnett
Carol Burnett, born in 1933, is a television icon and comedy legend. Her long-running variety show, The Carol Burnett Show, is considered one of the greatest TV series of all time. Her work has earned her numerous accolades and a special place in the hearts of audiences.
Burnett has not retired from performing. She recently had a prominent guest-starring role in the final season of the acclaimed series Better Call Saul and appeared in the 2024 Apple TV+ series Palm Royale.
Catherine Deneuve
Catherine Deneuve, born in 1943, is a French actress who has been a major star of international cinema for sixty years. She is known for her timeless beauty and for her roles in classic films like The Umbrellas of Cherbourg and Belle de Jour.
Deneuve continues to be a leading figure in French cinema. She recently starred in the film Bernadette (2023), in which she portrayed the former First Lady of France, Bernadette Chirac.
Alan Alda
Alan Alda, born in 1936, is an actor, writer, and director best known for his role as Hawkeye Pierce in the classic television series MASH*. He is also a dedicated science communicator, hosting a podcast on the subject.
Despite being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, Alda continues to act. He appeared in the film Marriage Story (2019) and has had recurring roles on television shows like Ray Donovan.
Derek Jacobi
Sir Derek Jacobi, born in 1938, is a distinguished English actor and stage director. He has had a successful career on stage, particularly in Shakespearean roles, and is known for film roles in Gladiator and The King’s Speech.
Jacobi remains an active performer. He recently appeared in the final season of the acclaimed series The Crown on Netflix and starred in the film Allelujah (2022) alongside Judi Dench.
Tommy Lee Jones
Tommy Lee Jones, born in 1946, is an actor and filmmaker known for his gruff persona and intense performances. He won an Academy Award for his role as U.S. Marshal Samuel Gerard in The Fugitive (1993) and is also known for the Men in Black series.
Jones continues to take on interesting projects. He recently starred in the Amazon Prime Video film The Burial (2023) alongside Jamie Foxx and directed and starred in the film The Homesman.
