The Grim Reaper Must Be on Vacation Because These Stars Are Still Here!

Bo Derek – Born in 1956 – Semi-Retired

Just the name ‘Bo Derek’ instantly conjures up sun-kissed beaches and slow-motion running in most peoples’ minds. Bo became “the” bombshell of the late 1970s and early 1980s after her iconic role in 1979’s “10.” That cornrow hairstyle? Trendsetting gold!

Before becoming a movie star, Bo actually started as a model at just 16! Later, she starred in films directed by her late husband, John Derek, like “Tarzan, the Ape Man” in 1981. Bo is a passionate animal advocate and founded her brand, Bo Derek Pet Care! Beauty, brains, and a heart of gold—Bo Derek is a genuine Hollywood original!

Sophia Loren – Born in 1934 – Still Active

Say ‘Ciao’ to the legendary Sophia Loren, a timeless Italian beauty and cinematic force! Sophia became an international icon in the 1960s, captivating audiences with her smoldering looks and powerful performances in films like “Two Women” (1960), for which she snagged an Oscar—the first ever for a foreign-language performance!

Sophia’s journey started in poverty in post-war Italy, rising from beauty pageants to movie stardom. A global superstar who conquered every stage, Sophia is one of the few stars to have won an Oscar and a Grammy! In 2020, she starred in “The Life Ahead,” directed by her son, proving her enduring talent.

Barbi Benton – Born in 1950 – Retired In The 1980s

Barbi Benton is a name that is pure 1970s bombshell perfection! Barbi exploded onto the scene as the Playboy Playmate, gracing countless covers and becoming the face of the Playboy empire. Her long-term relationship with Hugh Hefner got all the media attention at the time.

Before entering the mansion, Barbi was working as a singer and model, destined for stardom. She charmed TV audiences for years on “Hee Haw” and acted in films like “Deathstalker” in 1983. While Barbi stepped away from the limelight in the 1980s to focus on family, her legacy as a symbol of Hollywood glamour endures. Barbi is a talented songwriter, penning hits for herself and other artists.

Linda Evans – Born in 1942 – Retired

A true icon of 1980s glamour, Linda Evans sashayed into soap opera history and told everyone to hold onto their shoulder pads! She became a global phenomenon as Krystle Carrington in the primetime soap opera juggernaut “Dynasty.” Her on-screen battles with Joan Collins were TV gold!

Before all the diamonds and drama, Linda was already making waves in “The Big Valley” back in the 1960s, but “Dynasty” catapulted her to superstardom and earned her a Golden Globe in 1982. In 2009, she won the British TV program “Hell’s Kitchen” proving her competitive spirit. Linda even opened a chain of fitness centers in the 1980s!

Ann-Margret – Born in 1941 – Still Active

It’s difficult not to be amazed by the dazzling Ann-Margret, a true triple threat who’s been setting stages and screens on fire for decades! She exploded onto the scene in the 1960s, captivating audiences with her electrifying performances in “Bye Bye Birdie” and “Viva Las Vegas” alongside Elvis.

Before Hollywood stardom, Ann-Margret was a talented dancer and singer, honing her skills in nightclubs. She is also a skilled motorcyclist and has even performed motorcycle stunts in her films! Talk about a fearless queen! A major moment was her unforgettable, sultry performance in “Tommy” (1975), which earned her an Oscar nomination. In 2018, she charmed audiences in “Going in Style,” proving she’s still a force.

Bolo Yeung – Born in 1946 – Not Yet Retired But Not As Active As Before

Martial arts movie fans have a special love for Bolo Yeung, the man who could intimidate you with just a glare! He became a legend in the world of action cinema in the 1970s and 1980s, known for playing the ultimate villains. Before his Hollywood career, he was a champion bodybuilder in Hong Kong—muscles and moves for days!

Bolo’s incredible physique and martial arts skills were showcased in classics like 1973’s “Enter the Dragon” alongside Bruce Lee (who he was good friends with off-screen) and later in “Bloodsport” with Jean-Claude Van Damme. But he eventually moved away from Hollywood. In 1996, he appeared in “Fearless Hyena 3,” continuing to flex his action muscles.

Paul Hogan – Born in 1939 – Still Acting But Not As Active As Before

Aussie icon Paul Hogan charmed the world with his laid-back charisma and comedic timing. He rose to global fame in the 1980s as the star and writer of “Crocodile Dundee,” a surprise hit that captured hearts with its fish-out-of-water charm and Paul’s irresistible Aussie bloke persona. Before Hollywood, he gained popularity in Australia for his tourism commercials and “The Paul Hogan Show.”

Later, he basked in the immense success of “Crocodile Dundee,” and this role earned him a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination for Best Original Screenplay. Before Hollywood, Paul was fixing bridges, and he was a rigger on the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Talk about a career pivot!

George Hamilton – Born in 1939 – Active In The Acting Industry

Here’s to George Hamilton, Hollywood’s eternally tanned and debonair star! He waltzed onto the scene in the late 1950s, quickly becoming the go-to leading man for romantic comedies and dramas alike. His suave charm and effortless style made him a box office draw in hits like 1960’s “Where the Boys Are.” George’s career boasts a Golden Globe win for “Love at First Bite,” proving his comedic chops.

Beyond acting, he famously stepped into Colonel Sanders’ white suit for KFC commercials—a truly iconic moment! In 2016, he starred in “American Housewife,” showcasing his enduring appeal. George is still making headlines with his youthful glow. Cheers to aging like fine wine!

Christopher Walken – Born in 1943 – Busy As A Sought-After Actor

The one and only Christopher Walken is a true icon with that unmistakable voice and captivating screen presence. He became a sensation in the 1970s and 1980s, entertaining audiences with his intense and often quirky characters in films like 1978’s “The Deer Hunter” for which he snagged an Oscar.

Before Hollywood, Christopher was a child actor and even a lion tamer—talk about range! In 2024, we saw him in “Dune: Part Two,” proving that his evergreen star power will never fade with time. Did you know that despite his fame, Christopher reportedly has never used a computer or cell phone? He’s a genuine old-school original!

Jack Nicholson – Born in 1937 – Not Out of the Limelight Yet

Three-time Oscar winner Jack Nicholson is Hollywood royalty, with a career spanning over six decades. He shot to superstardom with 1969’s “Easy Rider” and cemented his place in movies with unforgettable performances in “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest,” “The Shining,” and “Batman.” His mix of charm, menace, and devilish grin made him one of the most magnetic actors of all time.

In 2010, he quietly stepped away from acting, with “How Do You Know” being his final film. Ever since then, he has been making rare public appearances at an L.A. Lakers game. A lifelong basketball fanatic, he proved that even in his 80s, he’s still larger than life.

Marla Gibbs – Born in 1931 – Still A Working Actress

The fabulous Marla Gibbs has always been a true queen of television. In the 1970s, she burst onto the scene as Florence Johnston, the wisecracking maid on “The Jeffersons,” becoming an instant icon. Before her acting career took off, Marla was a United Airlines reservation agent—can you imagine Florence booking your flight?

Her comedic timing earned her five Emmy nods for “The Jeffersons,” and she later starred in “227,” even singing the theme song! In 2021, she received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, solidifying her legendary status. Marla started in her 40s…proof that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and become a TV legend!

Richard Chamberlain – Born in 1934 – Still Makes Appearances

Hold onto your hearts, romance lovers, because we’re about to swoon over Richard Chamberlain, the king of the miniseries! Richard became a global heartthrob in the 1960s as Dr. Kildare on TV, making pulses race with his dreamy eyes and medical charm. But the fact is, before he was patching up patients on screen, Richard was a stage actor honing his craft. Richard is also a talented singer and released several albums during his “Dr. Kildare” fame!

His role in “Shōgun” (1980) cemented his miniseries royalty status, captivating audiences worldwide. A major moment was his brave portrayal of Father Ralph de Bricassart in The Thorn Birds (1983), which earned him a Golden Globe.

Billy Dee Williams – Born in 1937 – Working As A Multifaceted Star

Billy Dee Williams is a true Hollywood icon who’s been serving up suave charm for decades! He became a major heartthrob in the 1970s and 1980s, essaying the role of Lando Calrissian in “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi.”

Before galactic adventures, Billy was a Broadway star and gained fame for his role in “Brian’s Song.” A significant moment was landing the iconic “Star Wars” role, making him a sci-fi icon. In 2019, he reprised his role as Lando in “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” delighting fans. Billy is also multi-talented as he is a painter and has showcased his artwork plenty of times.

Victoria Principal – Born in 1950 – Retired Actress

Victoria Principal…everyone wanted to be her or be with her back in the day! This glamour queen became a household name in the late 1970s and 1980s, all thanks to her iconic role as Pamela Barnes Ewing on “Dallas.” “Dallas” wasn’t just a TV show; it was a full-blown cultural phenomenon, catapulting Victoria to global fame and landing her a Golden Globe nomination.

After hanging up Pamela’s shoulder pads in 1987, Victoria, always the boss babe, pivoted into a seriously successful skincare and beauty business. Even in 2000, long after “Dallas” fever, she popped up on “Family Guy,” proving she’s still got that star power!

Max Baer Jr. – Born in 1937 – Retired But Still Doing Business

Here’s one Hollywood name that’s pure gold – Max Baer Jr.! This is the guy who brought lovable goof Jethro Bodine to life on the small screen, making us laugh week after week in the unforgettable sitcom “The Beverly Hillbillies” back in the 1960s. Believe it or not, acting wasn’t even on Max’s radar at first…he was earning a degree in business administration.

Proving he’s got brains and talent, Max took on writing, producing, and starring in the 1974 movie “Macon County Line.” That movie became a massive success, raking in millions from a shoestring budget! It turns out that Max is way more than just Jethro; he’s a Hollywood heavyweight with serious smarts.

Ian McKellen – Born in 1939 – Active

Grab your wizard hats and capes, folks, because Sir Ian McKellen, a true knight of stage and screen, is here! Ian became a global icon in the 2000s, embodying Gandalf in “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy and Magneto in the “X-Men” franchise. But much before Middle-earth and mutant powers, Ian was a celebrated Shakespearean actor in Britain, knighted for his services to the performing arts in 1991!

In 2023, he starred in “The Critic,” proving his enduring talent. In 1971, Ian also co-founded a theatre company called The Actors’ Company. Talk about a stage and screen legend with a passion for the arts!

Lee Meriwether – Born in 1935 – Yet To Retire

Lee Meriwether is a true queen who has graced our screens for decades! Lee first captured hearts when she was crowned Miss America in 1955. She wasn’t just beautiful; she was brilliant, studying journalism and drama in college! She quickly transitioned to television, becoming a household name as Betty Jones in “Barnaby Jones” in the 1970s.

Before solving crimes on TV as Betty Jones, Lee was already making waves on stage and screen, even starring in “4D Man” in 1959. She also stepped into Catwoman’s sleek suit in the 1966 “Batman” movie. In 2019, we saw her in the show Carol’s Second Act, proving that she’s not ready to retire yet.

Barbara Mandrell – Born in 1948 – Retired

Barbara Mandrell burst onto the country music scene as a child prodigy, mastering instruments like steel guitar and banjo before she even hit her teens—now that’s talent! She became a country superstar in the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” and her high-energy TV show, “Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrell Sisters.”

Even before her solo fame, Barbara was touring with her family band, the Mandrell Family. A major moment was winning multiple CMA Entertainer of the Year awards, cementing her place as country royalty. Barbara is a true legend with a voice and spirit that just won’t quit!

Ali MacGraw – Born in 1939 – Inactive But Still Willing to Act

Oh, how effortlessly chic Ali MacGraw is! The screen siren became a sensation in the late 1960s and early 1970s, captivating audiences with her raw emotion and natural beauty in films like “Goodbye, Columbus” and the tearjerker “Love Story.” Her role as Jenny Cavilleri in “Love Story” made her a global phenomenon and earned her an Oscar nomination.

Ali was a successful fashion model and once worked as a photographer’s assistant! But the overwhelming success of “Love Story” made her a movie star. In 2021, she appeared in the documentary “In Vogue,” showcasing her timeless style. Ali also has a degree in art history from Wellesley College! Beauty and brains, eh?

Dick Van Dyke – Born in 1925 – Still Active

Get ready to applaud a true legend—it’s the one and only Dick Van Dyke! This showbiz icon charmed his way into our hearts in the 1960s with “The Dick Van Dyke Show,” a comedy classic that showcased his incredible physical comedy and lovable persona. Dick wasn’t just a TV star; he conquered Broadway too, winning a Tony Award for “Bye Bye Birdie” in 1961.

His role in “Mary Poppins.” forever cemented his movie star status, and in 2018, we saw him in “Mary Poppins Returns,” proving he’s still got that magic. In 2023, at 97, Dick became the oldest person to win a Daytime Emmy!

Tippi Hedren – Born in 1930 – Semi-Retired and Animal Activism

Tippi Hedren, the Hitchcock blonde icon, was catapulted to fame in the 1960s by the master of suspense himself, Alfred Hitchcock, starring in the terrifying 1963 classic “The Birds.”. Her icy blonde beauty and captivating screen presence made her an instant star. “The Birds” wasn’t just a movie; it was a cultural phenomenon, launching her Hollywood career and earning her a Golden Globe.

Before those iconic screams, Tippi was a successful model gracing magazine covers. In 2016, she appeared in a campaign for Gucci, proving her timeless elegance. Tippi is also an animal rights activist who famously keeps lions and tigers! She’s truly a fearless spirit, on and off-screen!

Julie Andrews – Born in 1935 – Still Active as a Voice Actor

The supremely talented Julie Andrews has a voice and presence that’s pure magic! Julie practically floated onto the scene in the 1960s, enchanting the world with her Oscar-winning performance in 1964’s “Mary Poppins.” Then, she had us climbing every mountain with her in “The Sound of Music.”

Julie has always been a star on the London stage, but internationally, “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music” made her a household name. In 2000, Julie was made a Dame Commander of the British Empire for her contribution to acting. She mostly narrates and does voice acting for cult hit shows such as “Bridgerton.”

Kim Novak – Born in 1933 – Retired But Still Makes Appearances

Blonde bombshell Kim Novak basically defined Hollywood glamour back in her day. Kim became the ‘It Girl’ of the 1950s and 1960s, captivating audiences with her ethereal beauty and unforgettable performances in classics like “Vertigo” and “Picnic.” “Vertigo” is now considered a cinematic masterpiece, thanks in part to her iconic performance.

Kim started in showbiz as a model—those cheekbones were destined for the spotlight! A major moment? In 2015, Kim made headlines at the Oscars, advocating for film preservation. Something most people don’t know is that Kim is also a talented painter and photographer, showcasing her artistic side beyond the screen! Multi-talented, much?

Tim Matheson – Born in 1947 – Active In The Acting Industry

Is it really a surprise that the ever-charming Tim Matheson became a Hollywood heartthrob who has been stealing scenes for decades? Before charming audiences on screen, Tim started young, even voicing Jonny Quest in the 1960s cartoon! He became a prominent name in the late 1970s, thanks to his iconic role as “Otter” in “Animal House.”

A significant moment in his celebrated career was when “National Lampoon’s Animal House” became a cultural phenomenon, launching him into stardom. In 2024, fans adored him as Dr. Vernon Mullins in “Virgin River.” And guess what? In a full circle moment, Tim actually bought National Lampoon magazine in 1989!

Loni Anderson – Born in 1945 – Semi-retired

Loni Anderson has been serving some serious bombshell vibes on the small screen since the 70s. She became a sensation in the 1970s and 1980s as Jennifer Marlowe, the ultra-glamorous receptionist on the hit sitcom “WKRP in Cincinnati.” Her pin-up looks and comedic timing made her a household name and a total heartthrob. “WKRP” wasn’t just a sitcom; it was a pop culture phenomenon, catapulting Loni to stardom and earning her multiple Golden Globe and Emmy nominations.

Before becoming Jennifer, Loni was a commercial actress and model in Minnesota. In 2018, she appeared in “Larger Than Life,” showing that she still has that screen presence.

Elinor Donahue – Born in 1937 – Retired

What a blast from the past it is for TV lovers to see the ever-adorable Elinor Donahue again, for she is America’s sweetheart of the small screen! Elinor charmed families across the nation in the 1950s and 1960s as the charming and relatable teen Betty Anderson on the sitcom “Father Knows Best.”

Elinor started her acting career in radio at just five years old! Later, she delighted audiences on “The Andy Griffith Show” in the 1960s. In 1991, Elinor reprised her role as Betty Anderson in a TV movie, proving that some characters are just timeless. Elinor Donahue is a true TV treasure with a career that spans generations.

Robert Fuller – Born in 1933 – Retired To Raise Horses

Back in the day, many women dreamed about riding into the sunset with Robert Fuller, a true cowboy king of the small screen! He galloped into fame in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming a household name as Jess Harper in “Laramie” and then as Cooper Smith in “Wagon Train.” His rugged good looks and stoic presence made him a Western TV staple.

“Laramie” was his breakthrough, launching a long and successful career in Westerns and beyond. Did you know that in 2004, Robert made a cameo in the film “Land of Plenty”? He lives on a ranch in Texas and raises horses, true to his ‘Western hero’ status!