In Hollywood, where youth often steals the spotlight, a special group of stars is proving that age is no barrier to brilliance. In this article, we’re celebrating the 11 oldest living celebrities who are still making waves in the entertainment industry. These legends show that talent and charm only get better with age. Come along as we dive into their incredible careers and see how they continue to captivate and inspire audiences.
11 oldest living celebrities in Hollywood
Here are the 11 people in Hollywood proving to us that age is just a number:
11. Nancy Olson
Date of Birth: 14 July 1928
Place of Birth: Wisconsin, USA
Profession: Actress
Nancy Olson is a true Hollywood legend, with a career that has spanned an impressive 65 years. Even though she officially retired in the mid-1980s, she’s made a few comebacks, with her most recent film appearance in 2014.
Olson is perhaps best known for her role as Betty Schaefer in Sunset Boulevard (1950), a performance that earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
In the 1960s, she charmed audiences in Walt Disney movies like The Absent-Minded Professor (1961) and Son of Flubber (1963). Her enduring presence in the industry is a testament to her timeless talent and appeal.
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10. Mel Brooks
Date of Birth: 28 June 1926
Place of Birth: New York, USA
Profession: Filmmaker, actor and comedian
Mel Brooks is a true icon in the world of comedy and filmmaking, known for his legendary contributions to the industry. As one of the oldest living actors, comedians, and filmmakers, Brooks has given us timeless classics like Blazing Saddles (1974) and Young Frankenstein (1974).
Throughout his remarkable career, Brooks has earned an Academy Award for his screenplay of The Producers (1967) and has collected multiple Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Awards.
In 1980, Brooks founded his own production company, Brooksfilms, which has since brought us memorable films such as The Elephant Man (1980), To Be or Not to Be (1983), and The Fly (1986). His lasting impact on cinema and comedy continues to entertain and inspire audiences around the world.
9. David Attenborough
Date of Birth: 8 May 1926
Place of Birth: London, England
Profession: Naturalist and broadcaster
David Attenborough is one of the UK’s most cherished broadcasters, renowned for his groundbreaking educational TV programs about the natural world. His acclaimed Life series, which aired in various parts from 1979 to 2008, stands as a testament to his innovative approach to nature documentaries.
Attenborough’s voice is among the most recognizable globally, known for its soothing yet authoritative tone that has guided audiences through numerous nature documentaries. His recent works include Natural World (2000-2017), Africa (2013), Galapagos (2013), and Frozen Planet (2011).
In his more recent projects, Attenborough has increasingly highlighted his support for environmental issues, advocating for urgent action to combat climate change and protect our planet. His passionate voice continues to resonate as a powerful force for environmental awareness.
8. Dick Van Dyke
Date of Birth: 13 December 1925
Place of Birth: Missouri, USA
Profession: Actor
Dick Van Dyke is a cherished American film actor and entertainer, celebrated for his enduring career. At 98 years old, he stands as one of the oldest living actors.
Van Dyke’s acting journey began after his service in World War II. He quickly became a household name, captivating audiences with his roles in American television, notably The Dick Van Dyke Show (1961-1966), and in film, where he is especially remembered for his iconic role as Burt the chimney sweep in Mary Poppins (1964). He also starred as Caractacus Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968).
Throughout his illustrious career, Van Dyke has become a legend in American entertainment. His impressive achievements include Emmy Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and a Kennedy Center Honor.
Even in his 90s, Van Dyke remains active. In 2018, he reprised his beloved role in Mary Poppins Returns, a sequel to the classic film.
7. Jimmy Carter
Date of Birth: 1 October 1924
Place of Birth: Georgia, USA
Profession: Politician
Jimmy Carter is widely recognized for his tenure as the 39th President of the United States, serving from 1977 to 1981 before being succeeded by Ronald Reagan.
During his presidency, Carter achieved several significant milestones, including the protection of 103 million acres of Alaskan land, the establishment of the Department of Education, and facilitating a peace agreement between Egypt and Israel.
For his dedicated efforts in promoting peace, advancing human rights, and addressing global humanitarian issues, Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
Today, Jimmy Carter holds the distinction of being the longest-living U.S. president and is the third-oldest living individual who has led their nation.
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6. Eva Marie Saint
Date of Birth: 4 July 1924
Place of Birth: New Jersey, USA
Profession: Actress
Eva Marie Saint is one of the oldest living actresses, with a remarkable career that has spanned over 70 years. Her work encompasses film, theatre, radio, and television, earning her an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and several nominations at the Golden Globes and British Academy Film Awards.
In 2022, Saint made history as the oldest living recipient of an Academy Award, underscoring her significant contributions during Hollywood’s Golden Age. Her film career began with a standout role in On the Waterfront (1954), where her powerful portrayal of Edie Doyle earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Saint’s impressive filmography also includes classic movies such as Alfred Hitchcock’s North by Northwest (1959) and Exodus (1960).
5. Ray Anthony
Date of Birth: 20 January 1922
Place of Birth: Pennsylvania, USA
Profession: Trumpeter and songwriter
Ray Anthony is renowned as an American bandleader and holds the distinction of being the last surviving member of the Glenn Miller Orchestra.
Following his time with Miller’s band, Anthony formed his own ensemble, The Ray Anthony Orchestra. His group achieved significant success with their 1952 cover of Etta James’ “At Last,” which reached No. 2 on the charts.
Now at 102 years old, Anthony remains active as a bandleader and is honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He is currently the oldest living male celebrity.
4. Frances Wessells
Date of Birth: 18 August 1919
Place of Birth: USA
Profession: Dancer and choreographer
Born in the USA and having studied at both the University of Denver and New York University, Wessells is a distinguished dancer and dance teacher who continued her career well into her late nineties, retiring only a few years ago.
As a professional dancer, Wessells graced the stage in the Latin Ballet of Virginia’s 2016 production of The Legend of the Poinsettia.
Widely regarded as an inspiration in the world of dance, Wessells’ performances were characterized by youthful exuberance and remarkable agility, making her age appear almost irrelevant.
3. June Spencer
Date of Birth: 14 June 1919
Place of Birth: Nottingham, England
Profession: Actress
June Spencer, who retired in 2022 at the remarkable age of 103, is best known for her long-standing role in The Archers, a BBC radio soap. Spencer portrayed the matriarch Peggy Woolley for over 70 years, beginning with the very first episode in 1951.
In recognition of her contributions to broadcasting, Spencer was awarded an honorary degree by the University of Nottingham in July 2012. She also received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2014 BBC Audio Drama Awards.
2. Caren Marsh Doll
Date of Birth: April 6 1919
Place of Birth: Hollywood, USA
Profession: Dancer and actress
Born in Hollywood, California, Caren Marsh Doll is celebrated as a versatile stage and screen actress, dancer, and entertainer. She appeared in numerous Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer films from 1937 to 1948 and is particularly renowned for being Judy Garland’s stand-in in The Wizard of Oz (1939) and Ziegfeld Girl (1941).
Today, Marsh Doll is among the last surviving stars from Hollywood’s Golden Age, which began in 1927. She holds the distinction of being the oldest living Hollywood star and the oldest living actress.
1. Elisabeth Waldo
Date of Birth: 15 June 1918
Place of Birth: Washington, USA
Profession: Violinist and music composer
At 106 years old, Elisabeth Waldo is the oldest living celebrity today.
A distinguished violinist, composer, and conductor, Waldo began her remarkable musical journey on her family’s ranch in Washington State. She was singing by the age of three and playing the violin by five.
Waldo earned a scholarship to the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia and embarked on solo tours across Panama, Costa Rica, Colombia, Peru, Chile, and Cuba. Her tour concluded in Mexico City, where she eventually settled and continued her illustrious career.
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Conclusion
In looking at these incredible people, it’s clear that age doesn’t limit talent or impact. From classic Hollywood roles to major contributions in music and broadcasting, each of these stars has made a lasting impression in their fields. Their ongoing work and achievements remind us that true talent only deepens with time. They continue to inspire us all, showing that greatness knows no age limits.
