Aging is inevitable, but for some of Hollywood’s most legendary actors, time has only added to their brilliance. From classic films to modern blockbusters, these stars have spent decades captivating audiences with their talent, charisma, and dedication to the craft. While their careers began in the golden age of cinema, they continue to leave a lasting impact today. In this article, we take a look at 12 iconic actors—then and now—celebrating their incredible journeys, their most memorable roles, and their ongoing contributions to the entertainment industry.
Anthony Hopkins
Sir Anthony Hopkins, born on December 31, 1937, in Port Talbot, Wales, is one of the most respected actors of his generation. His early years were filled with artistic pursuits, including painting, drawing, and playing the piano. Inspired by Richard Burton, he pursued acting at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama and later honed his craft at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art.
His breakthrough came in 1968 with “The Lion in Winter,” and he went on to build an extensive career in film and television. Hopkins became a household name with his chilling portrayal of Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs (1991), which won him his first Academy Award. In 2020, at the age of 83, he became the oldest Best Actor Oscar winner for The Father. As of 2025, Hopkins remains active in film and has also been writing his biography, sharing insights from his legendary career.
Ellen Burstyn
Ellen Burstyn, born Edna Rae Gillooly on December 7, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, had a varied career before becoming an actress. She worked as a model, dancer, and even a waitress before finding her true calling in acting. She trained under the legendary Lee Strasberg and made her Broadway debut in 1957.
Her breakthrough role in The Last Picture Show (1971) earned her an Oscar nomination, followed by a Best Actress win for Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974). Burstyn is one of the few actors to achieve the “Triple Crown of Acting,” having won an Academy Award, a Tony Award, and multiple Emmys. As of 2025, at 92 years old, she is still actively working in film and television, proving her enduring dedication to the craft.
James Earl Jones
James Earl Jones, born on January 17, 1931, in Arkabutla, Mississippi, is renowned for his deep, authoritative voice and decades-long acting career. Initially pursuing medicine, he shifted to drama, where he found an outlet for his creative energy.
His rich baritone voice became his defining feature, leading him to voice legendary characters such as Darth Vader in Star Wars and Mufasa in The Lion King. Over the years, he has built an impressive career in film, television, and theater. In 2022, at the age of 91, he reprised his role as Darth Vader in the Obi-Wan Kenobi series.
Maggie Smith
Dame Maggie Smith, born on December 28, 1934, in Ilford, Essex, England, is one of Britain’s most beloved actresses. She started her acting career in the 1950s, performing in Shakespearean productions before transitioning to film in 1956.
She has appeared in over 85 films and television series, winning two Academy Awards and multiple BAFTAs. Modern audiences recognize her for roles such as Professor Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter and the witty Dowager Countess in Downton Abbey. As of 2025, at 90 years old, she continues to take on new projects, including a film set for release later this year.
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Michael Caine
Sir Michael Caine, born Maurice Joseph Micklewhite Jr. on March 14, 1933, in London, England, is a legendary English actor known for his distinctive Cockney accent. Before becoming an actor, he served in the British Army during the Korean War.
His big break came with Zulu (1964), followed by an illustrious career spanning over 170 films. Caine has won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor and remains an active force in cinema. As of 2025, at 92 years old, he continues to take on roles, with several films in development.
Al Pacino
Al Pacino, born Alfredo James Pacino on April 25, 1940, in New York City, is an acting icon known for his intense performances in classics such as The Godfather trilogy, Scarface, and Scent of a Woman, for which he won an Academy Award.
His career has spanned over five decades, working with some of the most acclaimed directors, including Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino, and Ridley Scott. At 84 years old in 2025, Pacino remains highly active, with multiple films set for release, proving that his passion for acting is still as strong as ever.
Ian McKellen
Sir Ian McKellen, born on May 25, 1939, in Burnley, Lancashire, England, is a celebrated English actor known for his work in theater, film, and television. He started his career performing Shakespearean roles before transitioning to British television in the 1960s.
He gained international stardom with his portrayal of Magneto in X-Men and Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. At 85 years old in 2025, McKellen continues acting in independent films and theater productions in the UK.
Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman, born on June 1, 1937, in Memphis, Tennessee, is one of the most respected actors in Hollywood, known for his deep voice and commanding presence. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, he pursued acting, landing roles in theater before transitioning to film.
His standout performances in Driving Miss Daisy, The Shawshank Redemption, and Million Dollar Baby (for which he won an Oscar) cemented his place in cinema history. At 87 years old in 2025, Freeman remains highly active, with multiple films in post-production.
Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood, born on May 31, 1930, in San Francisco, California, is an American film icon. He started his career in the 1950s with low-budget films before achieving worldwide fame as the “Man with No Name” in Sergio Leone’s spaghetti westerns.
In the 1970s, he transitioned into directing, winning multiple Academy Awards for his work behind the camera. Despite being 94 years old in 2025, Eastwood has not officially announced his retirement and is still involved in filmmaking.
Alan Alda
Alan Alda, born on January 28, 1936, in New York City, is best known for his role as Hawkeye Pierce in the long-running television series MASH*, which remains one of the most celebrated TV shows of all time.
Alda has acted in numerous films and television shows, often taking on dramatic and comedic roles. At 89 years old in 2025, he remains active in acting, with recent roles in television dramas such as Ray Donovan.
Helen Mirren
Dame Helen Mirren, born on July 26, 1945, in London, England, is a highly regarded English actress known for her commanding performances. She began acting at a young age and became a staple in both film and theater.
Her career includes over 135 acting roles, and she has won an Academy Award for her portrayal of Queen Elizabeth II in The Queen (2006). At 79 years old in 2025, Mirren continues to take on new film projects, with multiple releases expected in the coming years.
Judi Dench
Dame Judi Dench, born on December 9, 1934, in York, England, has had a distinguished career in theater, film, and television. She trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama and became a prominent member of the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Her career spans over 130 roles, with unforgettable performances in Shakespeare in Love (for which she won an Oscar) and the James Bond series as M. At 90 years old in 2025, she still has projects in development, showing her dedication to the craft.
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