In the year 2015, a seismic shift reverberated through the fashion and media landscape as Celine, the iconic brand, cast the then 80-year-old literary luminary Joan Didion as its face. This audacious move sparked fervent discussions about “conquering age discrimination” and ignited a trend that championed women well past their thirties, embracing the embodiment of “venerable old age.” However, the euphoria surrounding this groundbreaking moment was ephemeral, and the celebration of mature beauty swiftly waned, leaving the once-revolutionary concept to fade from the limelight within a year. While brands often harness contemporary trends to capture attention, not all trends are benign. Ageism, or the pervasive discrimination based on age, casts a shadow over today’s media industry, an issue that merits our serious consideration.
The Power of Representation
The prevailing theory in marketing suggests that consumers yearn to see themselves reflected in the images they encounter on screens and billboards. Yet, many companies remain hesitant to regularly feature mature individuals in their campaigns. Can you effortlessly name ten celebrated actors of advanced age? Names like Helen Mirren, Meryl Streep, Judi Dench, and Robert De Niro likely spring to mind. However, the film industry demands a diverse array of characters, each requiring an actor who brings a unique essence to the role. Even within the world of cinema, a proclivity toward youth persists, sidelining the potential contributions of seasoned performers. Nevertheless, the fight against ageism is arduous but not insurmountable, as exemplified by beloved actors of the small screen who embarked on their journeys to stardom later in life, yet continue to shine in 2020 and beyond.
Ben Kingsley: Ageless Artistry at 79
Ben Kingsley commenced his acting odyssey at the tender age of 20, but the apex of success remained elusive until later in life. At the age of 59, Kingsley clinched an Oscar, while his star on the Walk of Fame finally adorned Hollywood Boulevard in 2010, at the age of 67. Sir Kingsley’s presence on screen endures today, with recent appearances in productions such as “Dwellers of the Hills” (mini-series, 2018) and “God’s Gift Enterprise” (TV series, 2019).
Bryan Cranston: Breaking Barriers at 67
The recipient of a coveted Golden Globe Award, Bryan Cranston catapulted to global recognition at the age of 58 through his portrayal of Walter White in the TV series “Breaking Bad” (2008-2013). This role transformed him into an idol for a new generation of viewers. Post-“Breaking Bad,” Bryan contributed his talents to projects like “Last Week with John Oliver” (TV series, 2014), “Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams” (TV series, 2017), and “Isle of Dogs” (TV series, 2018).
Jacki Weaver: An Ode to Charisma at 76
Australian film and television luminary Jacki Weaver embarked on her acting voyage at the age of 20, accepting a modest role in the TV series “Vandjins.” Astonishingly, it wasn’t until after her 63rd birthday that she garnered two Oscar nominations in 2019. Her magnetic charisma continues to make her a sought-after actress, gracing projects such as “The Mountain the Creator” (film, 2017) and “God’s Gift Enterprise” (TV series, 2019).
Glenn Close: The Enigmatic Icon at 76
Glenn Close, the quintessential American actress of stage, screen, and song, boasts an unparalleled number of Oscar nominations. Her theatrical debut transpired at 26, while her cinematic journey began at 35 with “The World According to Garp.” Since then, her illustrious career has been punctuated by critical acclaim, including three Tony Awards. In 2019, audiences witnessed her artistry in the series “Three from Heaven: Stories of Arcadia” (TV series, 2018 – …).
Terry O’Quinn: A Late Bloomer’s Ascent at 71
Fame smiled upon Terry O’Quinn at the age of 37 following his role in the film “Stepfather” (film, 1989), where he portrayed the enigmatic Jeff Ruben. This pivotal moment catapulted his career, transforming episodic roles into substantial ones. At 55, O’Quinn clinched an Emmy Award. Notable appearances followed in “Lost” (TV show, 2010), “The Black List” (TV series, 2013), “Castle Rock” (TV series, 2019), and “God’s Gift Enterprise.”
Penelope Wilton: Commanding the Screen at 77
Penelope Wilton, a distinguished British actress and Commander of the Order of the British Empire, made her stage debut at 28 when she was entrusted with the lead role in Alan Ayckbourn’s “The Norman Conquests” trilogy. Her inaugural film role at 35, in “The French Lieutenant’s Woman” (film, 1981), heralded her cinematic journey. To this day, her cinematic presence remains undiminished, as exemplified by her recent role as Anna in the TV series “Life after Death” (TV series, 2019 – …).
Kurtwood Smith: Shattering Stereotypes at 80
Kurtwood Smith’s breakthrough role arrived at the age of 38 with the film “Murder in Texas” (1981). Since then, his prolific career boasts 160 entries in his filmography, including “RoboCop” (film, 1987), “The Patriot” (2015), and “House” (TV series, 2004-2012).
These luminaries exemplify that age is but a number and the world of entertainment can transcend the boundaries of time. Their journeys are living testaments to the enduring power of talent and the indefatigable spirit of the human artistic soul. Age may leave its mark, but it also bestows a profound richness to the craft, enriching performances with wisdom and depth. As we celebrate these late-blooming stars, let us be reminded that the magic of cinema and television knows no age.
