TV Shows That Let Older Actors Shine in Complex Late-Career Roles

Modern television has entered a golden age for veteran performers, offering nuanced scripts that move beyond simple archetypes. These series leverage the gravitas and experience of seasoned actors to anchor high-stakes dramas and sophisticated comedies. By placing older protagonists at the center of the narrative, showrunners are exploring themes of legacy, mortality, and reinvention. This evolution reflects a growing audience demand for stories that capture the full spectrum of the human experience across all stages of life.

‘Better Call Saul’ (2015–2022)

Jonathan Banks delivers a masterclass in stoicism as Mike Ehrmantraut, a former police officer turned fixer for the criminal underworld. The series delves into his tragic backstory, detailing the events that led him to sacrifice his morals for the financial security of his granddaughter. His portrayal emphasizes a quiet intensity and physical presence that anchors the show’s most tense sequences. Banks received multiple award nominations for his ability to convey deep emotional resonance through minimal dialogue and subtle facial expressions.

‘Succession’ (2018–2023)

Brian Cox anchors the series as Logan Roy, the formidable and ruthless patriarch of a global media empire. His performance captures the volatile nature of a man struggling to maintain control over both his business and his ambitious children. Cox utilizes a commanding vocal presence and intimidating physicality to portray a leader whose health is failing but whose mental acuity remains sharp. The role earned him significant critical acclaim and cemented Logan Roy as one of the most memorable television figures of the decade.

‘Downton Abbey’ (2010–2015)

Maggie Smith portrays Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, providing a sharp-witted and traditionalist perspective on the changing social landscape of early 20th-century England. Her character is known for delivering biting social commentary and dry humor while navigating the aristocratic challenges of the era. Smith’s performance highlights the resilience of a matriarch who must balance her steadfast values with the inevitable modernization of her family’s estate. The role garnered her multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and became a central highlight of the series.

‘The Crown’ (2016–2023)

Imelda Staunton takes on the role of Queen Elizabeth II in the final seasons, depicting the monarch during the turbulent 1990s and early 2000s. She portrays the Queen as a woman balancing her duty to the crown with the personal crises of her children and the changing public perception of the monarchy. Staunton captures the subtle shifts in the Queen’s demeanor as she ages and faces the loss of close family members. Her performance provides a grounded and empathetic look at the challenges of maintaining a legacy in a modern world.

‘Shōgun’ (2024)

Hiroyuki Sanada stars as Lord Yoshii Toranaga, a powerful and strategic daimyo navigating the treacherous political landscape of feudal Japan. Sanada brings a seasoned authority to the role, portraying a leader who is both a brilliant tactician and a man of deep traditional honor. His performance is central to the show’s exploration of power, loyalty, and the collision of Eastern and Western cultures. Sanada also served as a producer on the series, ensuring historical accuracy and cultural depth in the production.

‘Schitt’s Creek’ (2015–2020)

Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy star as Moira and Johnny Rose, a wealthy couple who lose everything and must rebuild their lives in a small town. O’Hara’s performance as the eccentric and dramatic Moira became a cultural phenomenon, characterized by her unique vocabulary and elaborate wardrobe. Levy provides a grounded contrast as Johnny, the pragmatic husband trying to hold his family together in unfamiliar circumstances. Both actors received widespread acclaim for their ability to evolve these characters from vapid socialites into genuinely empathetic figures.

‘Big Little Lies’ (2017–2019)

Meryl Streep joined the second season of the series as Mary Louise Wright, a grieving mother searching for answers regarding her son’s death. Her portrayal is a chilling study of passive-aggressive manipulation and maternal grief, creating a formidable antagonist for the central group of women. Streep uses subtle physical cues and a distinctive vocal cadence to establish a character who is both mourning and predatory. The performance added a new layer of psychological tension to the show’s established mystery.

‘Hacks’ (2021–)

Jean Smart stars as Deborah Vance, a legendary Las Vegas comedian fighting to maintain her relevance in a changing industry. The series explores her complex relationship with a young writer, highlighting the generational gap in comedy and personal values. Smart delivers a powerhouse performance that balances sharp wit with the vulnerability of a woman facing the sunset of her career. She has won multiple Emmy Awards for the role, which showcases her range from slapstick humor to deep emotional pathos.

‘Only Murders in the Building’ (2021–)

Steve Martin and Martin Short star as Charles-Haden Savage and Oliver Putnam, two neighbors who form an unlikely bond over their shared obsession with true crime. The series utilizes their long-standing comedic chemistry to drive a mystery that is both humorous and genuinely suspenseful. Martin plays a semi-retired actor dealing with loneliness, while Short portrays a struggling Broadway director with infectious energy. Their performances demonstrate how veteran comedic actors can adapt their talents to the modern streaming landscape with great success.

‘Slow Horses’ (2022–)

Gary Oldman portrays Jackson Lamb, the brilliant but slovenly leader of a department for failed MI5 spies. Oldman embraces the character’s abrasive personality and unkempt appearance, creating a protagonist who is as repulsive as he is strategically gifted. The series provides Oldman with a platform to showcase a grizzled, cynical performance that subverts traditional spy tropes. His portrayal has been praised for its depth, revealing flashes of Lamb’s hidden competence and loyalty beneath his cynical exterior.

‘Grace and Frankie’ (2015–2022)

Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin star as two women who are forced to reinvent themselves after their husbands reveal they are in love with each other. The series tackles issues relevant to older women, including entrepreneurship, health, and the complexities of late-life dating. Fonda and Tomlin bring decades of professional history to their roles, creating a believable and evolving friendship that anchors the comedy. The show successfully ran for seven seasons, becoming one of the most prominent examples of media centering on the lives of seniors.

‘The Kominsky Method’ (2018–2021)

Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin star as Sandy Kominsky and Norman Newlander, two longtime friends navigating the challenges of aging in Los Angeles. Douglas plays an acting coach whose career never quite reached the heights he hoped for, while Arkin plays his successful and recently widowed agent. The series focuses on their banter and mutual support as they deal with health scares, family issues, and professional transitions. Their performances highlight the importance of companionship and humor in the face of mortality.

‘The Gilded Age’ (2022–)

Christine Baranski stars as Agnes van Rhijn, a staunch defender of old-money social traditions in late 19th-century New York. Her performance captures the rigid elegance and sharp-tongued wit required to navigate the high-stakes social hierarchies of the era. Baranski portrays a woman who is both intimidating and fiercely protective of her family’s status in a rapidly changing city. The character serves as a central pillar of the show’s exploration of class conflict and societal evolution.

‘1923’ (2022–2023)

Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren star as Jacob and Cara Dutton, the leaders of the Yellowstone ranch during the Great Depression and Prohibition. Ford brings a rugged, weary authority to Jacob, a man who must resort to harsh measures to protect his land and family. Mirren portrays Cara as a resilient and capable partner who manages the ranch’s operations with a steady hand. Together, they provide a compelling look at the hardships of early 20th-century frontier life and the legacy of the Dutton family.

‘The Old Man’ (2022–)

Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow star in this thriller about a former CIA operative living off the grid who is forced to go on the run. Bridges performs many of his own stunts, showcasing a physical grit that complements his character’s psychological depth. Lithgow plays the high-ranking FBI official tasked with finding him, creating a tense dynamic between two men with a shared history. The series explores the consequences of past actions and the enduring skills of individuals who have spent a lifetime in the shadows.

‘Tulsa King’ (2022–)

Sylvester Stallone stars as Dwight ‘The General’ Manfredi, a Mafia capo who is sent to Tulsa, Oklahoma, after serving a 25-year prison sentence. The show explores his efforts to build a new criminal empire in a location that is vastly different from the New York streets he once knew. Stallone brings his iconic screen presence to a role that combines dry humor with the threat of sudden violence. The series marks his first major leading role in a scripted television series, demonstrating his continued appeal as an action lead.

‘Shrinking’ (2023–)

Harrison Ford takes on a rare comedic role as Dr. Paul Rhoades, a senior therapist dealing with his own Parkinson’s diagnosis while mentoring younger colleagues. He utilizes a deadpan delivery and grumpy demeanor to provide a comedic foil to the more emotionally volatile characters. The performance is grounded in a sense of wisdom and vulnerability as his character navigates the frustrations of his physical decline. Ford’s participation in the series has been highlighted as a significant example of a legendary film star finding success in episodic television.

‘The White Lotus’ (2021–)

Jennifer Coolidge delivered a career-defining performance as Tanya McQuoid, a wealthy and emotionally unstable woman seeking solace at luxury resorts. Her portrayal earned her two Emmy Awards and revitalized her career, showcasing her ability to play both absurd comedy and deep tragedy. In the second season, F. Murray Abraham joined the cast as Bert Di Grasso, a grandfather traveling through Sicily with his son and grandson. Abraham’s performance explored the complexities of aging and the lingering effects of generational masculinity within a family dynamic.

‘Yellowstone’ (2018–)

Kevin Costner stars as John Dutton, the patriarch of the largest contiguous cattle ranch in the United States. He portrays a man deeply committed to his heritage, often using morally ambiguous methods to protect his property from developers and political rivals. Costner’s performance is defined by a quiet, brooding intensity that commands every scene he is in. The series has become a massive commercial success, due in large part to his portrayal of a modern-day cattle baron facing the encroachment of the modern world.

‘Ray Donovan’ (2013–2020)

Jon Voight portrays Mickey Donovan, the manipulative and charismatic father of the titular character, who unexpectedly returns after a long prison stint. Voight’s performance earned him a Golden Globe Award for his ability to make a deeply flawed and dangerous character strangely likable. The dynamic between Mickey and his sons serves as a central source of conflict throughout the show’s run. Voight brings a frantic energy and unpredictable edge to a role that remains a standout in his extensive filmography.

‘Inside Look: Feud – Bette and Joan’ (2017)

Jessica Lange and Susan Sarandon star as Joan Crawford and Bette Davis during the filming of the movie ‘What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?’. The series explores the intense rivalry between the two legendary actresses as they struggle with the ageism of the Hollywood studio system. Lange and Sarandon deliver layered performances that examine the professional pressures and personal insecurities of women in a youth-obsessed industry. Their work highlights the historical difficulties older actresses faced when trying to maintain their careers and artistic integrity.

‘The Good Fight’ (2017–2022)

Christine Baranski reprises her role as Diane Lockhart, navigating the complexities of law and politics in an increasingly polarized United States. The series allows Baranski to explore her character’s intellectual prowess and emotional resilience as she faces career setbacks and social upheaval. Her performance is characterized by a sophisticated elegance and a relentless pursuit of justice in a world that often feels chaotic. The show was praised for its sharp writing and for providing Baranski with a lead role that evolved significantly over six seasons.

‘Poker Face’ (2023–)

Judith Light delivers a compelling guest performance as Irene Smothers, an elderly woman living in a retirement home with a dark secret. The episode showcases her ability to balance grandmotherly charm with a cold-blooded pragmatism as she attempts to protect her past actions. Light won a Primetime Emmy Award for her guest role, underscoring the high quality of veteran talent utilized throughout the series. Her performance contributes to the show’s success in reviving the character-driven mystery format for a modern audience.

‘Transparent’ (2014–2019)

Jeffrey Tambor stars as Maura Pfefferman, a retired college professor who comes out as a transgender woman to her adult children. The series focuses on Maura’s journey of transition and the subsequent impact on her family’s identity and relationships. Tambor’s performance was widely acclaimed for its sensitivity and vulnerability, earning him multiple awards including an Emmy and a Golden Globe. The role provided a high-profile platform for a veteran actor to explore a complex and timely social narrative.

‘Ripley’ (2024)

John Malkovich appears in this stylized adaptation as Reeves Minot, a seasoned criminal who interacts with the ambitious Tom Ripley. Malkovich brings a sinister sophistication and a deliberate pace to the role, serving as a dangerous mentor figure. His presence adds a layer of established menace to the noir-inspired series, contrasting with the younger cast members. The role allows Malkovich to utilize his unique screen presence to create a character who feels both influential and enigmatic within the criminal underworld.

‘The Morning Show’ (2019–)

Holland Taylor portrays Cybil Richards, the chairwoman of the board at the network, representing a traditional and often uncompromising corporate perspective. Her performance highlights the challenges of an older executive woman navigating a changing media landscape and internal power struggles. Taylor brings a sharp intelligence and a formidable authority to the role, often acting as a foil to the show’s younger protagonists. The character provides a window into the generational tensions that exist within large corporate structures.

‘The Bear’ (2022–)

Jamie Lee Curtis delivers an intense and emotionally raw guest performance as Donna Berzatto, the matriarch of the family at the center of the series. Her portrayal in the episode ‘Fishes’ showcases the destructive nature of her character’s alcoholism and its impact on her children during a chaotic holiday dinner. Curtis received widespread critical praise and an Emmy Award for her ability to depict a woman who is both loving and deeply volatile. The performance added significant depth to the show’s exploration of generational trauma and family dynamics.

‘Star Trek: Picard’ (2020–2023)

Patrick Stewart returns to his iconic role as Jean-Luc Picard, portraying the former captain in the twilight of his life as he faces new intergalactic threats. The series explores Picard’s legacy and his struggle with the physical and mental limitations of aging. Stewart brings a soulful and reflective quality to the character, moving away from the purely authoritative figure seen in previous iterations of the franchise. The final season reunited him with his former cast members, providing a sentimental and definitive conclusion to his character’s long journey.

‘Palm Royale’ (2024–)

Carol Burnett and Bruce Dern star in this comedy set in the high-society world of Palm Beach in 1969. Burnett plays Norma Dellacorte, the comatose queen of Palm Beach society whose fortune and status are sought after by the protagonist. Despite her character’s initial physical limitations, Burnett’s presence and eventual participation in the narrative provide a comedic foundation for the series. Dern plays her husband, contributing to the show’s exploration of the eccentricities and secrets of the wealthy elite during a pivotal decade.

‘Last Tango in Halifax’ (2012–2020)

Derek Jacobi and Anne Reid star as Alan and Celia, two widowed octogenarians who rediscover their love for each other after sixty years. The series focuses on their late-life romance and the complexities of blending their two very different families. Jacobi and Reid bring a genuine warmth and authenticity to their roles, proving that compelling drama can be found in the lives of seniors. The show was a critical success in both the UK and the US, praised for its honest and humorous depiction of aging and second chances.

Please share which of these veteran performances resonated with you the most in the comments.