20 Actors With Remarkably Long-Lasting Careers

Some actors shine for a moment in Hollywood, but others build careers that last for decades, leaving a deep impact on film and television. These performers show incredible dedication, adapting to new trends and taking on varied roles that keep audiences hooked across generations.

From old-school movies to modern TV series, the actors on this list have worked hard, often starting young and continuing into their later years. Their ability to stay relevant, versatile, and passionate about acting makes them true icons of the entertainment industry.

Betty White

Betty White’s career kicked off in 1939 with a TV appearance and spanned over seven decades, earning her a Guinness World Record for the longest TV career for a female entertainer. She became a beloved figure with roles in ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’ (1970) and ‘The Golden Girls’ (1985), winning audiences with her sharp humor and warmth.

Her knack for connecting through comedy and charm kept her relevant, from early radio days to starring in ‘Hot in Cleveland’ (2010) in her 90s. White’s versatility and genuine love for acting made her a timeless star.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman started acting in the 1960s with small theater roles and didn’t hit major fame until his 40s with films like ‘Driving Miss Daisy’ (1989). His distinctive voice and commanding presence made him a go-to for roles as wise, authoritative figures in movies like ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ (1994).

He’s worked steadily into his 80s, starring in action films, dramas, and even comedies, proving his range never fades. Freeman’s dedication to diverse projects and his unmistakable gravitas keep him a Hollywood mainstay.

Clint Eastwood

Clint Eastwood rose to fame in the 1950s with TV’s ‘Rawhide’ (1959) and became a global star as the Man with No Name in ‘A Fistful of Dollars’ (1964). His tough-guy roles in Westerns and action films like ‘Dirty Harry’ (1971) defined an era of cinema.

He’s also directed critically acclaimed films like ‘Unforgiven’ (1992) while acting into his 90s, with recent roles in ‘Cry Macho’ (2021). Eastwood’s relentless work ethic and ability to evolve as both actor and filmmaker cement his legendary status.

Helen Mirren

Helen Mirren began her career in the 1960s with stage work at the Royal Shakespeare Company and moved into film with roles in ‘The Long Good Friday’ (1980). Her powerful performances in ‘The Queen’ (2006) and ‘Gosford Park’ (2001) earned her widespread praise and an Oscar.

Still active in her 70s, she takes on diverse roles, from action in ‘Red’ (2010) to historical dramas like ‘The Audience’ (2013). Mirren’s elegance and fearless approach to challenging characters keep her in demand.

Denzel Washington

Denzel Washington broke out in the 1980s with ‘St. Elsewhere’ (1982) and films like ‘Cry Freedom’ (1987), earning acclaim for his intense, grounded performances. He’s starred in hits across genres, from ‘Training Day’ (2001) to ‘Fences’ (2016), showcasing his emotional depth.

Into his 60s, he continues leading major films like ‘The Equalizer’ (2014) and directing projects with the same passion. Washington’s ability to command any role ensures his career stays strong.

Meryl Streep

Meryl Streep started in theater in the 1970s and quickly became a film icon with ‘Kramer vs. Kramer’ (1979) and ‘Sophie’s Choice’ (1982). Known for her unmatched versatility, she’s played everyone from historical figures to quirky comedic roles in ‘The Devil Wears Prada’ (2006).

Still active in her 70s, she stars in films like ‘The Post’ (2017) and TV series like ‘Big Little Lies’ (2017). Streep’s ability to transform into any character keeps her at the top of her game.

Robert De Niro

Robert De Niro exploded onto the scene in the 1970s with ‘Mean Streets’ (1973) and ‘Taxi Driver’ (1976), delivering raw, unforgettable performances. His work in ‘Raging Bull’ (1980) and ‘Goodfellas’ (1990) solidified him as a legend of intense, transformative acting.

In his 80s, he still takes on major roles in films like ‘The Irishman’ (2019) and ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ (2023). De Niro’s relentless drive and bold choices keep his career thriving.

Judi Dench

Judi Dench began in theater in the 1950s and gained film fame with ‘A Room with a View’ (1985) and as M in ‘GoldenEye’ (1995). Her commanding presence and emotional depth shone in dramas like ‘Iris’ (2001) and ‘Philomena’ (2013).

Still acting in her 80s, she appears in films like ‘Belfast’ (2021) and continues stage work with unmatched energy. Dench’s grace and skill make her a timeless force in acting.

Anthony Hopkins

Anthony Hopkins started in the 1960s with stage roles and broke through in films with ‘The Lion in Winter’ (1968). His chilling performance as Hannibal Lecter in ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ (1991) made him an icon, followed by powerful roles in ‘The Remains of the Day’ (1993).

In his 80s, he delivers award-winning work in ‘The Father’ (2020) and stays active in new projects. Hopkins’ ability to convey complex emotions keeps him a standout.

Christopher Plummer

Christopher Plummer began acting in the 1950s, gaining fame as Captain von Trapp in ‘The Sound of Music’ (1965). His career spanned stage and screen, with standout roles in ‘The Insider’ (1999) and ‘Beginners’ (2010), earning him an Oscar at 82.

He worked until his passing in 2021, appearing in ‘Knives Out’ (2019) with the same vigor as his early days. Plummer’s dedication to diverse roles made his career enduring.

Maggie Smith

Maggie Smith started in the 1950s with theater and films like ‘The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie’ (1969), earning her an Oscar. Her sharp wit shone in ‘Downton Abbey’ (2010) and as Professor McGonagall in the ‘Harry Potter’ series (2001).

In her 80s, she continues with roles in ‘The Miracle Club’ (2023), blending humor and gravitas effortlessly. Smith’s ability to steal scenes keeps her a beloved figure.

Ian McKellen

Ian McKellen began in theater in the 1960s and became a film legend with roles like Gandalf in ‘The Lord of the Rings’ (2001) and Magneto in ‘X-Men’ (2000). His commanding stage presence translated perfectly to blockbuster films and intimate dramas.

Still performing in his 80s, he stars in theater productions and films like ‘The Good Liar’ (2019). McKellen’s passion for acting and bold role choices ensure his lasting impact.

Michael Caine

Michael Caine rose to fame in the 1960s with ‘Zulu’ (1964) and ‘The Italian Job’ (1969), known for his distinctive Cockney accent. He’s excelled in dramas like ‘Hannah and Her Sisters’ (1986) and blockbusters like ‘The Dark Knight’ (2008).

In his 90s, he still takes roles in films like ‘The Great Escaper’ (2023), showing his charm never fades. Caine’s versatility and work ethic make him a true icon.

Donald Sutherland

Donald Sutherland started in the 1960s with films like ‘The Dirty Dozen’ (1967) and became a star in ‘MAS*H’ (1970). His eclectic career includes ‘Ordinary People’ (1980) and ‘The Hunger Games’ (2012), showing his range across genres.

He worked into his 80s, with roles in ‘Ad Astra’ (2019), bringing depth to every performance. Sutherland’s ability to adapt kept him relevant for decades.

James Earl Jones

James Earl Jones began in theater in the 1950s and became iconic as the voice of Darth Vader in ‘Star Wars’ (1977). His powerful stage work and film roles in ‘Field of Dreams’ (1989) and ‘The Lion King’ (1994) showcased his commanding presence.

Into his 90s, he continued voicing Vader in ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ (2022) and performing on stage. Jones’ distinctive voice and dedication ensure his legacy endures.

Julie Andrews

Julie Andrews shot to fame with ‘Mary Poppins’ (1964) and ‘The Sound of Music’ (1965), captivating audiences with her voice and charm. She transitioned to dramatic roles in films like ‘Victor/Victoria’ (1982) while maintaining her iconic status.

In her 80s, she voiced characters in ‘Despicable Me 3’ (2017) and created children’s shows, staying active in the industry. Andrews’ grace and talent keep her career vibrant.

Sidney Poitier

Sidney Poitier broke barriers in the 1950s with ‘The Defiant Ones’ (1958) and became a star in ‘Lilies of the Field’ (1963), earning an Oscar. His roles in ‘Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner’ (1967) challenged racial norms and inspired generations.

He acted into the 1990s and directed films, leaving a legacy until his passing in 2022. Poitier’s groundbreaking work and dignity made his career monumental.

Gene Hackman

Gene Hackman started in the 1960s with ‘Bonnie and Clyde’ (1967) and won an Oscar for ‘The French Connection’ (1971). His intense performances in ‘Unforgiven’ (1992) and ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’ (2001) showed his incredible range.

Retiring in 2004, he left a legacy of powerful roles across four decades. Hackman’s ability to embody complex characters made his career unforgettable.

Jack Nicholson

Jack Nicholson burst onto the scene with ‘Easy Rider’ (1969) and became a legend with ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ (1975). His charismatic, unpredictable energy shone in ‘The Shining’ (1980) and ‘As Good as It Gets’ (1997).

Though largely retired since 2010, his earlier work across five decades remains iconic. Nicholson’s bold performances and unique presence ensure his lasting fame.

Angela Lansbury

Angela Lansbury began in the 1940s with ‘Gaslight’ (1944) and starred in ‘The Manchurian Candidate’ (1962), earning acclaim for her versatility. She became a TV icon with ‘Murder, She Wrote’ (1984) and continued stage work like ‘Blithe Spirit’ (2009).

Active into her 90s with roles in ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ (2018), she showed timeless charm until her passing in 2022. Lansbury’s warmth and skill made her career extraordinary.

What’s your favorite performance from these legendary actors? Share your thoughts in the comments!