Hollywood’s Golden Age Legends: Where They Are Now

The bright lights of Hollywood have always been the symbol of the dream to become rich and famous. Many people who want to be actors or actresses believe that their journey to success begins on Hollywood Boulevard, where the stars are placed on the sidewalk.

Years ago, the stars of Old Hollywood were more than just famous—they were legends. These Hollywood icons had amazing talent, style, and charisma. Even today’s biggest celebrities see them as role models.

But what happened to these classic movie stars? Are they still living a luxury lifestyle, or have they chosen to stay out of the spotlight?

Let’s take a look at the most iconic Hollywood actors from the past, their celebrity net worth today, and how their lives have changed over the years.

Clint Eastwood

Today, Clint Eastwood is one of the most respected names in Hollywood, known worldwide for his success as both an actor and an Oscar-winning director. But his road to fame wasn’t easy.

Before hitting it big, Eastwood worked several jobs to pay the bills—he was a golf caddy, shop clerk, and even a lifeguard.

His big break came with the CBS western series Rawhide, and from there, he built a powerful career in both acting and directing. With a massive celebrity net worth and decades of hit films, Eastwood remains a major player in Hollywood’s elite.

Betty White

Best known for her unforgettable role in The Golden Girls, Betty White had already enjoyed a long and successful acting career before that show began.

She started acting in 1939, debuting in The Merry Widow. Over the years, she starred in popular shows like The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Hot in Cleveland, and even voiced a role in Toy Story 4.

With a career lasting over 80 years, Betty White became a symbol of charm and talent in the entertainment industry. She stayed active in TV and film well into her late 90s, proving age is just a number.

Catherine Deneuve

Catherine Deneuve is one of the most famous French actresses in film history. Known for her elegance and timeless beauty, she became a fashion icon and a symbol of French cinema.

Her early fame came when she represented France as Marianne, the national icon of liberty. She starred in international classics like The Umbrellas of Cherbourg, Belle De Jour, Indochine, and Place Vendôme.

Even in her 70s, Deneuve continues to shine, earning BAFTA and Oscar nominations, and still appearing in films as recently as 2019.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson broke barriers in Hollywood by playing strong, inspirational Black women on screen and stage. Her powerful role in Sounder earned her both Oscar and Golden Globe nominations.

Tyson’s career included unforgettable performances, such as her Emmy-winning role in The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman. In 2018, she received an Honorary Academy Award, celebrating her legacy and impact.

She was not just a movie star—she was a symbol of pride, talent, and strength in the African-American community.

Cloris Leachman

Cloris Leachman enjoyed a remarkable Hollywood career lasting over 70 years. She started out as Miss Chicago, competing in the Miss America pageant, before making her way to the big screen.

She won hearts with her roles in The Last Picture Show and as the hilarious grandma on Malcolm in the Middle. Leachman also made history on Dancing with the Stars at age 82, becoming the oldest contestant ever!

Her work in TV and film earned her multiple Emmys, making her one of the most awarded actresses in television history.

Dick Van Dyke

Dick Van Dyke became world-famous after his fun role as Bert the chimney sweep in Disney’s Mary Poppins (1964). Though his British accent was criticized, his charm won everyone’s heart.

He started his career back in the 1940s and starred in hits like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and The Dick Van Dyke Show. With his singing, dancing, and comedy, Van Dyke remains a true Hollywood icon.

Ed Asner

Ed Asner is one of the most loved TV actors of all time, with a career in Hollywood that lasted over 80 years. His most famous role was Lou Grant in The Mary Tyler Moore Show and its spinoff, Lou Grant.

Even at age 90, Asner was still acting, recently appearing in Netflix’s Dead to Me. He holds a record seven Primetime Emmy Awards, making him a legend in TV history.

Gavin MacLeod

Gavin MacLeod has appeared in many classic films and TV series since the 1950s. Some of his best-known movies include The Thousand Plane Raid and The Sword of Ali Baba.

He also became a fan favorite on TV shows like The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The Love Boat. Most recently, he appeared in the stage show Happy Hour, showing he’s still active in entertainment.

George Hamilton

George Hamilton found fame quickly, winning a Golden Globe Award for his very first movie, Crime and Punishment U.S.A.. He went on to star in popular films like Light in the Piazza and 8 Heads in a Duffle Bag.

Even at 81 years old, Hamilton is still working, recently appearing on General Hospital. His celebrity lifestyle and movie success have kept him in the spotlight for decades.

Jane Powell

Jane Powell was one of the brightest stars of Hollywood musicals during the 1940s and 50s. She starred in beloved films like Royal Wedding and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.

With a career in film, television, and theater, she is one of the longest-working actresses in showbiz. Today, she focuses more on local theater roles, but her legacy lives on in classic musicals.

Joanne Woodward

Joanne Woodward gained fame for her role in The Three Faces of Eve, but she had already built a strong acting career before that. She is one of the most award-winning actresses in history.

She has won one Academy Award, three Golden Globes, and three Emmys—a rare achievement. Married to Paul Newman, she became part of Hollywood royalty both on and off the screen.

Joan Plowright

Joan Plowright may be known as the wife of Laurence Olivier, but she also has a powerful career of her own. Starting in London theater, she later starred in movies like Dennis the Menace and Enchanted April.

She is one of only four actresses to win two Golden Globes in one year, and most recently appeared in the 2018 documentary Nothing Like a Dame. She remains a respected name in British and Hollywood cinema.

Joyce Randolph

Joyce Randolph is best known for playing Trixie Norton on the classic TV comedy The Honeymooners. She appeared in over 100 episodes across two different shows, becoming a staple of American television.

Though she has retired from acting, her role in classic comedy still brings smiles to fans today. Her character remains one of the most recognized in sitcom history.

Judi Dench

Dame Judi Dench is one of the most respected actresses in the world. With a career starting in the 1950s, she first gained fame as a Shakespearean actress. Since then, she has become a true legend in British and Hollywood cinema.

She starred in popular films like Shakespeare in Love and Mrs. Henderson Presents, and became a household name from the beloved TV show As Time Goes By. Most recently, she appeared in the 2020 drama Six Minutes to Midnight. Dench’s powerful roles and long-lasting career make her a top name in award-winning actresses.

Johnny Crawford

Johnny Crawford first won hearts playing Mark McCain on The Rifleman. At just 13 years old, he earned an Emmy nomination—an amazing achievement for someone so young.

After his early fame, Crawford built a second career as a musician and live performer. Today, he still performs with the Johnny Crawford Orchestra, showing his passion for entertainment never faded.

Richard Keith

Best known as Little Ricky on the classic sitcom I Love Lucy, Richard Keith became a TV favorite during the golden age of television. His real name is Keith Thibodeaux, but he changed it early in his career for easier recognition.

After acting, he turned to music, performing with his Christian rock band David and the Giants. He continues to entertain fans both new and old.

Kim Novak

Kim Novak reached instant stardom for her unforgettable role in Alfred Hitchcock’s Vertigo. She played two characters in the film and became a symbol of classic Hollywood beauty.

Novak won several Golden Globe Awards and earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. At the height of her success, she stepped away from the movie world to focus on art and photography, choosing a quiet life over Hollywood fame.

Lee Meriwether

Lee Meriwether began her journey by winning Miss America 1955. She soon moved into acting, starring in more than 100 movies and TV shows. Her award-winning role in Barnaby Jones earned her widespread acclaim.

She also gained fame in cult classics like The Munsters and Batman. Even in her 80s, Meriwether continued to act, with her most recent movie being 2016’s Kitty. She remains a symbol of classic Hollywood talent.

Liv Ullmann

Liv Ullmann is a legendary actress from Norway, best known for her powerful roles in the films of Ingmar Bergman. She’s received several top awards, including an Academy Award nomination, and later turned to directing.

In 2014, she directed the movie Miss Julie. Today, Ullmann focuses on humanitarian work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and has received national honors like the Order of St. Olav.

Mel Brooks

Mel Brooks is a comedy legend whose work has made generations laugh. Since the 1950s, he’s been writing, directing, and acting in classic comedies like The Producers, Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, and Spaceballs.

Even into his 90s, Brooks keeps working. He voiced a role in Toy Story 4 and is involved in a new project, Blazing Samurai. His creative genius and lasting influence make him one of the top names in Hollywood history.

Michael Caine

Sir Michael Caine is a true legend in both British cinema and Hollywood. He began acting in his early 20s and went on to star in unforgettable classics like The Italian Job, Alfie, and Zulu.

He has received Academy Award nominations across five different decades, showing just how long and successful his career has been. Even in his 80s, Caine stays active—most recently appearing in the blockbuster Tenet. His net worth and influence in the film industry remain strong today.

Joe Pesci

Joe Pesci is known for playing tough guys with attitude, and he’s one of the biggest names in crime drama films. His roles in Goodfellas, Casino, and The Irishman made him a Hollywood staple.

He even added humor to his tough-guy image in Home Alone. Though he retired in 1999, Pesci made a surprise comeback in The Irishman (2019), proving he still has the magic. His strong screen presence and unique voice keep him in high demand.

Morgan Freeman

Morgan Freeman is famous for his deep voice and powerful performances. Though he started acting in the 1960s, his career took off in the 1980s with his Oscar-nominated role in Street Smart.

He became world-famous for movies like The Shawshank Redemption, Million Dollar Baby, and Driving Miss Daisy. Even at age 83, Freeman is still making films—his next movie, The Comeback Trail, is eagerly awaited. He is also known for his high net worth and voiceover work.

Pam Grier

Pam Grier made a name for herself in 70s Blaxploitation films, becoming a symbol of strength and beauty. Her fame soared after starring in Jackie Brown (1997), directed by Quentin Tarantino.

Grier has remained active in both movies and TV. She currently stars in the ABC sitcom Bless This Mess, and she continues to inspire as a Black female Hollywood icon.

Paul Michael Glaser

Paul Michael Glaser became a household name as Detective Starsky in the 70s hit Starsky & Hutch. He also directed some episodes, showing his talent behind the camera.

Since then, he’s acted in shows like Third Watch and Grace and Frankie. Today, Glaser is still active and now writing children’s novels, proving that creativity has no age limit.

Rita Moreno

Rita Moreno is one of Hollywood’s most honored stars, with over 70 years in the business. She is one of the few stars to win an Oscar, Emmy, Tony, and Grammy, making her part of the elite EGOT club.

She starred in West Side Story and continues to shine in One Day at a Time. Moreno’s long-lasting career and awards make her a true symbol of Hollywood success and Latina excellence.

Robert Duvall

Robert Duvall has earned respect through decades of powerful performances in films like To Kill a Mockingbird and The Godfather trilogy. He won an Oscar for his role in Tender Mercies.

Known for staying out of the spotlight, Duvall lets his acting speak for itself. In 2015, he became the oldest actor ever nominated for Best Supporting Actor for The Judge. He is proof that talent and longevity go hand in hand.

Tina Louise

Tina Louise is one of the few classic Hollywood actresses who shined in both comedy and drama. She first gained fame in 1958 with God’s Little Acre, which earned her a Golden Globe Award.

Her most iconic role came as Ginger Grant in the hit comedy Gilligan’s Island. Though she faced typecasting in comedy roles, Louise later starred in films like The Hangman and The Stepford Wives. Her most recent work was in the 2014 horror movie Late Phases.

Robert Redford

Robert Redford is more than a Hollywood actor—he’s a filmmaker, director, and founder of the Sundance Film Festival, one of the most respected in the world.

He starred in hits like The Sting, The Voice of Charlie Pont, and Inside Daisy Clover. His directing work on Ordinary People won him an Oscar. Even in his 80s, Redford remains active, especially with the Sundance Institute.

Russ Tamblyn

Russ Tamblyn began his acting career in classic films like Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and High School Confidential. He later earned an Oscar nomination for Peyton Place and wowed audiences in West Side Story.

Tamblyn continues to act, most recently in the 2017 reboot of Twin Peaks, showing the strength of his long-lasting Hollywood career.

Ruta Lee

Ruta Lee became famous in the 1950s, starring in beloved classics like Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and Witness for the Prosecution. She also appeared in game shows and TV shows, showcasing her versatility.

She remains active in charity work and was honored with the Jeanette Rockefeller Lifetime Humanitarian Award in 2019 for her service to various causes.

Sophia Loren

Sophia Loren is known for her timeless beauty and Oscar-winning talent. With famous films like The Pride and the Passion and Two Women, she earned a place in Hollywood history.

Even in her later years, Loren remains respected and active. She was honored with a star on the Almeria Walk of Fame in 2017, proving her lasting legacy.

Terry Moore

Terry Moore began acting at just 11 years old and quickly became a major star in films like Mighty Joe Young and Come Back, Little Sheba, which earned her an Oscar nomination.

She’s still active in film, with her latest appearance in Silent Life (2019). Moore’s long career showcases true Hollywood staying power.

Betty Lynn

Betty Lynn is best remembered as Thelma Lou on The Andy Griffith Show. She had a strong film and stage background, appearing in productions like Sitting Pretty and Texas John Slaughter.

She retired in 2006 after decades of work, but her role in American TV history remains iconic.

Luke Halpin

Luke Halpin became a household name with his role in the Flipper movies. Loved for his charm and screen presence, he even appeared in the 1990s remake.

Later in life, Halpin worked as a stuntman, diver, and marine coordinator for Hollywood films—proving his talents extended beyond acting.

Max Baer Jr.

Max Baer Jr. played the lovable Jethro Bodine in The Beverly Hillbillies, a role that became so iconic he struggled to break free from it.

Instead, he moved into producing and directing. His film Macon County Line became the highest-grossing independent film of the year, proving his business and creative skills.

Arlene Golonka

Arlene Golonka became famous for her roles in The Andy Griffith Show and Mayberry R.F.D.. Starting in theater, she later moved to TV and film, becoming a fan favorite in American comedies.

Today, she works as an acting teacher, helping guide the next generation of performers.

Terry Kilburn

Terry Kilburn made his debut in the 1938 classic A Christmas Carol at just 12 years old. He transitioned into adult roles with ease and later moved into theater directing.

In the 1970s, he became the artistic director of Meadow Brook Theater in Michigan, shaping local theater for many years.