Angela Lansbury, 94
Across eight decades, fans of Angela Lansbury could see her act on multiple platforms. The actress held mastery over theater, television, and the big screen alike. WWII brought her family to America, seeking refuge from the Blitz plaguing London. There, she made quick work in her transition to Hollywood, signing with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and starred in Gaslight (1944) and The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945). For her work, she earned a Golden Globe Award and two Oscar nominations.
Many consider Lansbury’s big claim to fame as the film The Manchurian Candidate (1962). After her contract with MGM ended, she temporarily moves to theater before starring in the 1962 film, which many consider an example of her finest work. Her success on the big screen would quickly transfer to the stage. Lansbury enjoyed leading roles in Sweeney Todd and The King and I. Even if she was not physically seen, she was heard, lending her memorable vocal talents to the 1991 animated classic Beauty and the Beast. As one of a handful of celebrities in their 90s, hers really is a tale as old as time.
Bob Barker, 96
The price is right about this one, Bob Barker’s success truly is beyond measure. With 16 Daytime Emmy Awards to his name, Barker became a household name for hosting not just The Price is Right but also Truth or Consequences. Barker’s career as a media personality traces back to his college years when he worked part-time in radio. By then, Barker knew what he wanted to do, and so went to California to pursue broadcasting.
From then on, television appearances and hosting opportunities kept coming. He has hosted Miss Universe and the Miss USA pageants alike and became the longest-serving host of both. His passion is not limited to television, however, as he is an avid advocate for animal rights and humane treatment and care of animals. One related group he strongly supports is the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. This makes Barker one of the several celebrities in their 90s who uses his free time to advance worthy causes. His 2007 retirement concluded five decades of television stardom.
Tony Bennett, 94
Originally Anthony Dominick Benedetto, Tony Bennett dedicated his active years to the arts. Bennett has dabbled in painting, but it is in music that he really left his mark. He drew from the Great American Songbook when compiling his repertoire, and the results brought him 18 Grammy Awards. Though, his painting should not be dismissed, as several pieces are on permanent public display in many renowned institutions.
Bennett’s passion for music made itself known early on. But it was not until after returning home from WWII that Bennett would pursue it in full. He gradually expanded his stylistic range, and would eventually utilize traditional pop standards, jazz, show tunes, and big band. Later, he worked to help others embrace the same passion he did and founded the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in Astoria, Queens, New York.
Cicely Tyson, 95
The roles of Cicely Tyson can be enjoyed in many ways, from television to film, to theater. Some debate surrounds the year of Tyson’s birth, as she is very protective of her privacy. What is known for sure, however, is that Ms. Tyson developed a career that would involve several significant roles in numerous pieces of media that defined generations and set high standards for those to come.
The Harlem native displayed an early determination to pursue her wants and dreams, forsaking a typing job in favor of modeling. Even though she was prohibited from many plays and movies in her youth, Tyson was drawn to the idea of acting. This was a journey she would have to pursue on her own, however, as her religious mother feared the path she was taking. Fortunately, Tyson persisted. Luckily for audiences across the country, Tyson contributed to the success of movies such as The Help, Roots, The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman, and several Tyler Perry movies. In 2013 in addition to her many other recognitions and awards, Tyson won a Tony Award for her role in The Trip to Bountiful. Like other celebrities in their 90s, Tyson shows that dedication can yield stunning and impactful results.
Cloris Leachman, 94
Another powerhouse in her 90s, Cloris Leachman deserves some recognition on this list. A fantastic actress with a career spanning over seven decades, she has won both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe Award, as well as a record-setting eight Primetime and one Daytime Emmy Awards. She has appeared in popular movies such as Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid, and television shows such as Malcolm in the Middle. Leachman has also voice acted in various films.
Age has not slowed down Cloris Leachman by any means. She has continued to act in popular television and movies in the 21st century. She also hilariously joined another actress on this list, Betty White, in You Agan (see the clip below). Leachman even set a record for the oldest contestant to appear on Dancing With The Stars in 2005 at age 82.