Exploring the Longevity of Hollywood Icons That Lived To Be More Than 90

The world of Hollywood has seen its fair share of stars whose careers were cut short, but there exists an equally impressive list of actors and entertainers who defied the odds, living well beyond the age of 90. These individuals not only graced the screen with their talent but also became enduring figures, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. In this comprehensive exploration, we’ll delve into the lives of 32 Hollywood stars who not only captivated audiences but also surpassed the age of 90.

Table of Contents

Sean Connery: The Timeless Bond

Sean Connery, the suave and iconic James Bond, left an indelible mark on cinema. His legacy extends beyond the world of 007, encompassing a vast body of work that earned him admiration. Connery’s journey reached its conclusion at the age of 90 on Halloween in 2020, leaving behind a legacy as the “Greatest Living Scot.”

Betty White: A National Treasure

Betty White, a trailblazing comedian and beloved American treasure, continued to enchant audiences until her passing on December 31, 2021. Just a few weeks shy of her 100th birthday, White’s 99 years on Earth were filled with laughter and a vibrant life.

Carl Reiner: A Showbiz Legend

Carl Reiner‘s name is synonymous with show business success. With a remarkable career spanning decades, he breathed life into classics like “The Dick Van Dyke Show” and left an enduring impact. Reiner lived to the age of 98, his legacy a testament to his multifaceted contributions.

Cicely Tyson: An Acting Dynamo

A dynamic force in acting, Cicely Tyson graced the stage and screen, amassing numerous accolades throughout her seven-decade career. Tyson’s commanding performances in film, television, and on Broadway left an indelible mark. She departed at the age of 96 in January 2021.

Tony Bennett: The Crooner’s Journey

Primarily known for his legendary music career, Tony Bennett made notable contributions to film and TV. The iconic crooner passed away at 98 in July 2023, leaving behind a musical legacy that transcends generations.

Kirk Douglas: A Hollywood Legend

Kirk Douglas, star of cinematic masterpieces like “Spartacus,” lived an extraordinary life that extended to 103 years. His impact on Hollywood, both as an actor and a producer, solidified his place among the industry’s legends.

Mickey Rooney: Prolific and Enduring

In 2014, Hollywood bid farewell to the prolific Mickey Rooney at the age of 93. With a career spanning 88 years and over 300 movies, Rooney’s versatility and enduring presence in show business left an indelible mark.

Katharine Hepburn: Record-Setting Talent

Katharine Hepburn, a four-time Academy Award winner, graced the silver screen for 96 years. Her exceptional talent and durability made her a legend in Hollywood, leaving an unmatched legacy.

Sidney Poitier: Trailblazing Excellence

Sidney Poitier, a trailblazing actor, became the first Black performer to win an Oscar for Best Actor. His impactful career, spanning classics like “Lilies of the Field” and “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” concluded at the age of 94 in June 2022.

Bob Hope: Entertainer Extraordinaire

An entertainer for the ages, Bob Hope spent decades bringing laughter to millions worldwide. His passing at 100 in July 2003 marked the end of a career that encompassed Broadway, radio, television, and numerous USO tours.

Gloria Stuart: Titanic’s Elder Rose

Gloria Stuart, known as the elder Rose in “Titanic,” passed away in July 2010, just two days after celebrating her 100th birthday. Her contributions to cinema spanned decades, with “Titanic” marking a late-career highlight.

Zsa Zsa Gabor: Hollywood Royalty

Zsa Zsa Gabor, a legendary Hollywood figure, graced the silver screen for 60 years. Her passing in December 2016 at the age of 99 marked the end of a dazzling career filled with memorable performances.

Angela Lansbury: Timeless Talent

Angela Lansbury, celebrated for roles in “Beauty and the Beast” and “Murder, She Wrote,” left an indelible impact on the entertainment industry. Her passing at 96 in October 2022 was met with tributes from fellow celebrities.

George Burns: A Centenarian in Comedy

After 93 years in show business, George Burns lived to be 100. His cigar-smoking comedic style and status as the best “straight man” in comedy solidified his place in entertainment history.

Bob Barker: The Price Is Right Icon

Bob Barker, beloved host of “The Price Is Right,” achieved the remarkable age of 99 before his passing in August 2023. His legacy extended beyond the screen, with fans remembering his iconic contributions.

Ed Asner: A Versatile Legacy

Ed Asner, known for roles in “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “Up,” left a lasting legacy in film and television. His passing at 91 in August 2021 marked the end of a career filled with memorable performances.

Doris Day: A Hollywood Triple Threat

American actress and singer Doris Day passed away in May 2019, leaving behind a legacy that included Alfred Hitchcock thrillers, romantic comedies, and a successful sitcom. Her multifaceted career spanned decades.

Billy Wilder: Directorial Brilliance

Billy Wilder, renowned for classics like “Some Like It Hot” and “Sunset Boulevard,” lived to the age of 95. His impact on Hollywood as a director remains unparalleled.

Harry Dean Stanton: Character Actor Par Excellence

One of the greatest character actors, Harry Dean Stanton, passed away in September 2017 at 91. His work in films like “Alien” and “Paris, Texas” solidified his reputation.

Ennio Morricone: Maestro of Film Scores

Ennio Morricone, the composer behind iconic film scores, passed away at 91 in July 2020. His contributions, from “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” to “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” shaped cinematic history.

Joan Fontaine: Elegance Personified

Joan Fontaine, known for her roles in classics like “Rebecca” and “Suspicion,” passed away in December 2013 at the age of 96. Her elegant performances left an indelible mark on Hollywood.

Harry Morgan: MAS*H Star

Emmy Award-winning actor Harry Morgan, renowned for portraying Col. Sherman T. Potter on “MAS*H,” lived to be 96. His legacy includes a prolific career in film and television.

Christopher Plummer: A Cinematic Luminary

After a decades-spanning career with major roles in “The Sound of Music” and “Knives Out,” Christopher Plummer passed away in February 2021 at 91. His versatility and talent garnered widespread acclaim.

Jerry Lewis: Comedy and Drama Maestro

A comedic genius equally adept in dramatic roles, Jerry Lewis lived to be 91 before his passing in August 2021. From “The Nutty Professor” to “The King of Comedy,” his impact on entertainment remains significant.

Phyllis Diller: Comedy Trailblazer

Phyllis Diller, a comedic trailblazer, passed away in August 2012 at 95. Her influence on female comedians and her fearless approach to breaking barriers made her an icon.

Hal Holbrook: Mark Twain’s Interpreter

Hal Holbrook, known for his one-man stage show about Mark Twain, passed away at 95 in February 2021. His contributions to film, television, and stage left a lasting legacy.

Ernest Borgnine: Oscar-Winning Legend

Ernest Borgnine lived to be 95 until his passing in July 2012. His Oscar-winning performance in “Marty” and a vast body of work in film and television solidified his legendary status.

Maureen O’Hara: A Hollywood Beauty

Dazzling audiences in classics like “Miracle on 34th Street” and “How Green Was My Valley,” Maureen O’Hara passed away in October 2014 at 95. Her timeless beauty and talent left an enduring impact.

Jerry Stiller: Seinfeld’s Comedic Genius

Jerry Stiller, known for his roles in “Seinfeld” and films like “Hairspray,” passed away in May 2020 at 92. His comedic brilliance and memorable performances made him a beloved figure.

Stan Lee: Marvel’s Creative Visionary

Stan Lee, the creative force behind Marvel Comics, passed away at 95 in November 2018. His influence on comic book culture and memorable cameos in Marvel films continue to resonate.

Joss Ackland: Prolific Acting Career

With a career spanning over 100 movies and TV shows, Joss Ackland passed away in November 2023 at 95. His prolific and legendary acting career left an indelible mark.

Hugh Hefner: The Playboy Visionary

Hugh Hefner, though not an actor or director, played a significant role in shaping Hollywood’s cultural landscape. The founder of Playboy passed away in September 2019 at 91, leaving a lasting impact.

In celebrating the lives of these Hollywood icons, we recognize not only their longevity but also the enduring impact they had on the entertainment industry and culture. Their contributions have become an integral part of the fabric of Hollywood, ensuring their legacies continue to inspire and resonate for years to come.