Angela Lansbury (Born in 1925) - Murder, She Wrote
With a career spanning over seven decades, Dame Angela Lansbury is a legend of the silver screen. From her early days in the '40s to her recent role in "Buttons: A Christmas Tale," her acting prowess has earned her numerous accolades and awards, including Tony, Golden Globe, and Academy Honorary Awards.
Her most memorable performances include "Murder, She Wrote," "Death on the Nile," and "The Picture of Dorian Gray," giving her fans a timeless legacy to enjoy. This remarkable woman is one of the surviving stars of the golden age of Hollywood, and a true inspiration for generations to come.
Claire Bloom (Born in 1931) - A Doll's House
A well-known and highly respected stage, screen, and television actress, Claire Bloom's illustrious career in showbiz began during World War II, when she joined the British War Relief Society as an entertainer. She trained in London for stage acting and went on to become a renowned star on the silver screen.
Her stellar performances in movies like "Clash of the Titans," "The King's Speech," and "A Doll's House" have earned her many accolades. After a long and successful career, she took a break from the limelight in 2016. 2021 marks a special milestone for her as she celebrates her 90th birthday.
Patrick Stewart (Born in 1940) - Star Trek: The Next Generation
Patrick Stewart is a true icon of the sci-fi world, having made his mark with the iconic character of Captain Jean-Luc Picard in the '80s series "Star Trek: The Next Generation." His fame has extended to other projects such as "X-Men: Days of Future Past," "Macbeth," and the 2022 movie "Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness."
His involvement with the "Star Trek" universe continues to this day, as 2020 saw him return to the role of Picard in the series "Star Trek: Picard." Unsurprisingly, Stewart has also become a popular meme, solidifying his status as a legendary figure in the entertainment industry.
Charlotte Rampling (Born in 1946) - The Night Porter
Charlotte Rumpling is a true icon of the '60s, having started her career as a model and a muse. But it didn't stop there; she went on to grace the big screen alongside some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Her impressive portfolio of work includes "The Night Porter," "Under the Sand," and "Basic Instinct 2."
She is still going strong today and shows no signs of slowing down; in 2021, she appeared in the star-studded film "Dune" alongside Zendaya and Timothée Chalamet. Rumpling is a living legend who is sure to be remembered in the annals of entertainment history.
Gemma Jones (Born in 1942) - Bridget Jones's Diary
Gemma Jones is a timeless actress who has been gracing the screen and stage since the swinging sixties. An array of iconic performances, including her roles in "Bridget Jones's Diary" and "The Duchess of Duke Street," have cemented Jones' place in the hearts of many.
With a career spanning over six decades, it's no wonder she is still as enchanting and lively as ever. Fortunately, she has no plans to retire and was recently seen in 2021's mini-series "Finding Alice." Jones is a living legend, and we can only hope to be blessed with her presence on our screens and stages for years to come.
Judi Dench (Born in 1834) - Shakespeare in Love
The iconic Judi Dench is a powerhouse of acting talent, having starred in many iconic projects, including the Academy Award-winning film "Shakespeare in Love," the Bond classic "Skyfall," as well as the classic whodunnit "Murder on the Orient Express."
Her awards cabinet is bursting at the seams, with seven Oscars, seven BAFTAs, and seven Oliver awards to her name. 2021 proved no exception to her talent, with the release of "Belfast" and the long-awaited James Bond film, "No Time to Die." It's clear that Judi has no plans to slow down anytime soon, and her incredible acting talents will be gracing the screen for many years to come.
Julie Christie (Born in 1940) - Doctor Zhivago
Julie Christie's incredible story began in Assam, India, when it was still a part of the British Empire. She later moved to England, where she went on to become one of the most successful actresses of the '60s, with Al Pacino describing her as "the most poetic of all actresses."
Throughout her career spanning five decades, Christie has starred in renowned films such as "Far from the Madding Crowd," "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban," and "McCabe and Mrs. Miller," for which she has won several awards, including an Academy Award. Her last appearance on screen was in 2017, before she retired in 2018.
Sheila Hancock (Born in 1933) - The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
Sheila Hancock has been a shining star in the world of theatre and television since the '50s. She started out as a student at the well-known Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and has worked her way up to become one of the most loved and respected performers in the business.
From her numerous roles in film and TV to her Tony and Olivier awards, her hard work and dedication to the craft have earned her the respect of fans and colleagues alike. She can be seen in the hit show “A Discovery of Witches,” and there is no doubt that she will continue to bring joy and delight to audiences.
John Cleese (Born in 1949) - Fawlty Towers
John Marwood Cleese has had a long and illustrious journey throughout his life. He burst onto the TV scene in the '60s, with "The Frost Report," and went on to become a successful scriptwriter and actor. He co-founded Monty Python's Flying Circus, a comedy troupe that revolutionized the sketch show.
In the '70s, he co-wrote and starred in the sitcom "Fawlty Towers" alongside his wife and earned his first British Academy TV Award. By the start of the 21st century, he was ranked No. 2 in the list of the 100 greatest TV characters, and he remains active in the film industry today.
Julie Andrews (Born in 1935) - The Sound of Music
The legendary Julie Andrews has been the talk of the town since her first appearance on the silver screen. From starring in iconic classics like "The Sound of Music" and "Mary Poppins" to providing her voice for "The Princess Diaries" and "Despicable Me," she has become a household name.
Her immense talent and hard work have been rewarded with an Academy Award for Best Actress and a Golden Globe. Her small town in Surrey is proud of her for her amazing achievements. As if her accolades weren't enough, in 2022, she made her mark in yet another classic, "Minions: The Rise of Gru."
Twiggy (Born in 1949) - The Boy Friend
Lesley Lawson, popularly known as 'Twiggy', made a lasting mark on the fashion world in the '60s. Her short but successful stint as a model is still remembered and celebrated as an iconic period in the industry. Her youthful and playful looks were so coveted, they remain popular to this day.
Additionally, Twiggy has tried her luck in acting and has appeared in films like "The Boy Friend," "The Blues Brothers," and "Club Paradise." Her legacy was so great that in 2019, she was honored with a damehood by Prince Charles for her services to fashion and she even has her own label.
Charles Shaughnessy (Born in 1955) - The Nanny
Charles Shaughnessy was born into a world of show business. Following family tradition, he went on to star in the iconic '90s sitcom "The Nanny" and has continued to wow audiences ever since. From the long-running "Days of Our Lives" to the hit drama "Mad Men" and the fantasy series "The Magicians," Shaughnessy has graced the screen with his talent.
His success has been rewarded with multiple awards, including three Soap Opera Digest Awards and a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Performer in an Animated Program in 2000. Still active in the entertainment industry, he appeared in "Days of Our Lives: Beyond Salem" in 2021.
Pam St Clement (Born in 1942) - EastEnders
Pam St Clement has gone from being a struggling actress to an iconic figure of the small screen. After trying her luck with various shows, her big break came in the form of the BBC soap opera "EastEnders." With over 2000 episodes under her belt, she became one of the longest-serving cast members and, in 2021, bowed out after 15 years. But that's not where her story ends.
She has featured in other shows, including Emmerdale Farm, "A Horseman Riding By," and "Play for Today," and made a guest appearance in "Casualty" in 2017. She is an inspiration to those who are still striving to make it in the industry.
Petula Clark (Born in 1932) - Downtown
Petula Clark has been a star in the entertainment industry for over three decades, and her career began long ago when she was still just a young girl. Working for the BBC during World War II, she gained a reputation for her melodic voice and charming presence.
In the '50s, her first big hit, "The Little Shoemaker," was released and her fame began to spread throughout Europe. People from all over knew the words to the song and wanted to hear more from the talented singer. Clark is still going on tours and singing her greatest hits for the enjoyment of her many fans.
Pauline Collins (Born in 1940) - Shirley Valentine
Pauline Collins has soared to the heights of stardom over six decades, having garnered a BAFTA, an Olivier, and a Tony Award for her outstanding performances. Her most notable role was in the 1989 hit movie "Shirley Valentine," and it has become her signature claim to fame.
Collins has also starred in a string of other projects such as "Mrs. Caldicot's Cabbage War," "The Time of Their Lives," and "Secrets of a Windmill Girl." Even though we haven't seen her on screen in the last few years, she is still very much a part of the industry and is not ready to retire just yet!
Liam Neeson (Born in 1952) - Taken
Liam Neeson is a renowned Irish actor whose charismatic presence, exceptional talent, and ability to adjust to any situation are unparalleled. Neeson's rise to fame began with his performance in "Schindler's List," which earned him nominations for both an Academy Award and a British Academy Film Award.
He has since starred in hit movies like "Excalibur," "Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace," and "Batman Begins," and despite his full schedule, he continues to be sought after for more. His extraordinary journey began at Dublin's Abbey Theatre, where he was noticed by "Excalibur" director John Boorman. With an undying passion for acting, Neeson is certainly in a league of his own.
Derek Jacobi (Born in 1938) - Hamlet
Sir Derek Jacobi is a living legend of the stage, with a career spanning six decades. Having starred in countless stage productions, television shows, films, and books, he is an icon of the entertainment industry. His expertise in the works of William Shakespeare is unparalleled, having taken on roles in some of the playwright's greatest works, including "Romeo and Juliet," "Much Ado About Nothing," and "Hamlet."
In 2021, he continued his impressive streak with a role in "The Laureate." His books, including "Verses of the Poets Laureate," "Derek Jacobi In His Own Words," and "As Luck Would Have It," have earned him further admiration and respect.
Eileen Derbyshire (Born in 1931) - Coronation Street
Eileen Derbyshire certainly had a long and successful career, having been an actress since the early '60s, and being the longest-serving female cast member in British soap opera history. All her hard work was rewarded with a role on the iconic “Coronation Street," which made her a household name.
She retired in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and tears. But she hasn’t just been sitting at home since then. Instead, she’s been spending her time with her friends and family, enjoying the retired life she worked so hard for. There’s no doubt that Derbyshire will be remembered for many years to come.
Glenda Jackson (Born in 1936) - Women in Love
The extraordinary Glenda Jackson has proven that with dedication and determination, she can succeed in any field she chooses. An Academy-Award-winning actress, her well-known works include "Women in Love" and "A Touch of Class." She then went into politics and showed how talented she was by representing Hampstead and Kilburn from 1992 to 2015.
She even made history by becoming Britain's first Under-Secretary of State for Transport. However, it appears that the silver screen was still calling her name, as she returned to it in 2021, taking part in the drama "Mothering Sunday," and starring alongside the remarkable Olivia Colman and Colin Firth.
Jacqueline Bisset (Born in 1994) - The Sweet Ride
Jacqueline Bisset made an undeniable entrance into the entertainment industry when she debuted in the '60s. A successful model, she invested her earnings in acting classes, and her efforts paid off when she was nominated for a Golden Globe for Most Promising Newcomer.
From there, she went on to become a beloved star in many projects, including "The Life and Times of Judge Roy Bean," "The Deep," and "Murder on The Orient Express." Even today, she's still making waves in the industry, with her performance in the 2021 film "Birds of Paradise" being a testament to her talent and longevity.
Jane Asher (Born in 1946) - Death at a Funeral
The beautiful Jane Asher has been a part of our lives since the '50s. Her career took off, with her role as the girlfriend/muse of one of the most iconic singers of all time - Sir Paul McCartney. But her career transcended that association and she has starred in many films, such as "The Masque of the Red Death," "Alfie," and "Death at a Funeral," which she is most remembered for.
Asher is still dazzling us today with her acting and she even made an appearance in the 2021 movie "Splinter Psychiatrist." She is an icon in her own right and has made an indelible mark on our lives!
Charles Dance (Born in 1946) - Game of Thrones
Charles Dance is an actor of immense talent and range, and his accomplishments have been many. From his humble beginnings in the '70s, he has made a name for himself as a master of his craft, appearing in films like "The Golden Child," "For your Eyes Only," and "China Moon."
His star rose even higher with his renowned role in the legendary HBO series "Game of Thrones," and even today, at a ripe old age, he continues to act, most recently in the 2022 film "Against the Ice." A true talent and a testament to the power of dedication, Dance is undoubtedly one of the greatest actors of our time.
Hugh Grant (Born in 1960) - Notting Hill
Hugh Grant is the epitome of English charm and grace. He's been pleasing fans for decades with his dashing looks and romantic roles in films such as "Notting Hill," "About a Boy," and "Love Actually."
His efforts have been rewarded with several awards, including a BAFTA, Volpi Cup, and a Golden Globe Award. And he's not done yet! Grant continues to show his talent in the acting world, and in 2020, he made a stunning return to the small screen with his appearances in "The Undoing" and "Death to 2020." For sure, this talented actor still has plenty more to offer in the years to come.
Jeremy Irons (Born in 1948) - Lolita
Jeremy Irons is an icon whose career spans decades and genres. His unforgettable performances have left an indelible mark on the film industry, and his charitable work has made a lasting impact on the world. Irons has shown how versatile he is as an actor by voicing Scar in "The Lion King" and playing the controversial Humbert Humbert in "Lolita."
His many achievements have earned him the Triple Crown of Acting, and he is also a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador. In 2021, he dazzled audiences with his performance in "House of Gucci." No one can deny the sheer power of Irons' presence in the world of entertainment.
Jessica Benton (Born in 1948) - The Onedin Line
Jessica Benton may not have had a highly successful acting career, but she's certainly not been forgotten. Her role in the BBC series "The Onedin Line" as Elizabeth Onedin has made her a household name. Although she has taken a back seat from the limelight since 1980, she still managed to appear in a few roles in her earlier years.
The actress is quite the enigma, but it is known that she currently resides in Dorset with her husband and daughter. Rumor has it that she is a dog and chicken lover, owning a total of ten canine companions and over one hundred chickens!
Jim Broadbent (Born in 1949) - Longford
The legendary Jim Broadbent is one of England's most talented actors, most renowned for his role in the critically acclaimed "Longford," for which he won a Golden Globe and a BAFTA. Over the last four decades, he has graced the silver screen in over 160 projects, including "Moulin Rouge!," "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince," and "Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe."
At an age when many actors are retired, Broadbent continues to capture audiences' hearts with his acting, proving that age is just a number. His fans can rejoice that he has no plans to stop anytime soon!
Kevin McNally (Born in 195) - Pirates of the Caribbean
Kevin McNally is a true pirate at heart, having been a part of the legendary "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise. His performance as Joshamee Gibbs was a cornerstone of the series, and his iconic portrayal of the sidekick is still talked about today. Although Johnny Depp departed from the series, the legacy of the swashbuckling adventures of the beloved pirate crew has been preserved by the likes of Kevin McNally.
His illustrious acting career has seen him in other notable films like "High Heels and Low Lifes," "Dad's Army: The Lost Episodes," "The Missing Hancocks," and most recently in "Painted Beauty."
Christina Pickles (Born in 1935) - St. Elsewhere
Christina Pickles is a revered star of the big and small screens. Her acting career kicked off in the '60s and she swiftly rose to fame with her most beloved role as Nurse Helen Rosenthal in "St. Elsewhere." Since then, she's graced us with her presence in films such as "Revenge of the Nerds IV: Nerds in Love," "Legends Of The Fall," and "Angels Don't Sleep Here."
We were delighted to see her once again in 2021's "Friends: The Reunion" as Ross and Monica's beloved on-screen mother Judy Geller. Though she's been absent from the spotlight for some time, her influence and impact on the entertainment industry remain strong.
Anthony Hopkins (Born in 1937) - The Silence of the Lambs
Anthony Hopkins is an acting veteran who has been entertaining audiences around the world since the '60s. From iconic roles in films such as "The Silence of the Lambs" to more recent appearances in "The Mask of Zorro" and "The Remains of the Day," Hopkins has proven to be an acting powerhouse.
His acting prowess and talent have been in high demand, and he shows no signs of slowing down. At the age of 81, he continues to show off his acting skills in the 2020 film "The Father," proving that age is just a number and talent is truly timeless.
Julie Walters (Born in 1950) - Billy Elliot
Julie Walters is a true example of longevity in the acting industry. From her beginnings in the '70s, she has consistently graced us with her presence on the big and small screens. Awards such as a BAFTA, a Golden Globe, and two international Emmys are proof of her talent and staying power.
From the beloved "Billy Elliot" to the magical "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone" and the musical hit "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again," her long list of iconic roles is well known. She was also in 2020's "The Secret Garden." Walters' unwavering commitment to the craft is a testament to her success as an actress.
Barbara Knox (Born in 1933) - Coronation Street
Barbara Knox is the very definition of stability and consistency. She has been gracing the UK with her presence for over 60 years and is still going strong! She found her big break when she was cast as Rita Tanner in the beloved soap opera "Coronation Street."
Since then, she has appeared in over 300 episodes and counting! Although she did briefly leave the show in the '70s, it was only a matter of time before she returned to her roots. Knox is a true inspiration, showing us that age is only a number and that one's dreams can be achieved through dedication and hard work.
Vanessa Redgrave (Born in 1937) - Letters to Juliet
Vanessa Redgrave has been an iconic figure in the world of film and activism for decades, having started her career in the late '50s and continuing to this day. Her stellar acting talent has earned her the title of "greatest actress of our time," and she has been recognized with numerous awards, including an Oscar.
Redgrave has appeared in beloved films such as "Letters to Juliet," "Call the Midwife," and "Atonement," as well as more recent titles like "Finding You." She is also a renowned activist, having publicly supported organizations such as the Workers Revolutionary Party, the Palestine Liberation Organization, and UNICEF.
Alfred Molina (Born in 1953) - Spider-Man 2
At the age of nine, Alfred Molina was determined to become an actor, and his dreams have been fulfilled. Born to immigrant parents, he has worked hard to create a legacy for himself. From the late '70s to the present, he has taken on a variety of roles in both film and television.
His resume includes noteworthy projects such as "Frida," "Raiders Of The Lost Ark," and the iconic role of Dr. Octopus in "Spider-Man 2." In 2021, he was featured in the highly anticipated "Spider-Man: No Way Home." Molina is an inspiration to all, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, dreams can become reality.
Malcolm McDowell (Born in 1943) - A Clockwork Orange
In the early days of his career, Malcolm McDowell gained notoriety for his rebellious and challenging nature. Now, many years later, he has earned his stripes as a Hollywood bad guy, with a string of villainous roles in some of the most iconic films and TV shows.
His celebrated portrayal of the depraved Alex in "A Clockwork Orange" is one of his most iconic characters. On a more personal level, he is a loyal father of five and a passionate golfer. Through it all, he has shown a remarkable ability to take on a variety of roles and remain a highly respected actor in Hollywood.
Michael Caine (Born in 1933) - Batman Begins
Michael Caine is a legend in the world of cinema, known for his unforgettable South London accent. He's well-loved by fans of superhero films, having taken on the iconic role of Alfred, Batman's butler and companion, in "Batman Begins" and "The Dark Knight." He's had an expansive filmography, with appearances in movies like "Going in Style," "Kingsman: The Secret Service," and "Journey 2: The Mysterious Island."
Caine's career began in the '50s and continues to this day. His latest film, "Medieval," was released in 2022. He's been featured in over 170 acting credits, and it's always a treat to see him grace the screen with his presence.
Stephanie Beacham (Born in 1947) - Tenko
Stephanie Beacham is a distinguished actress who has been a shining star in the film, theater, and radio industry for decades. She is well known for her role in the iconic film "The Nightcomers," but she has also made a name for herself on TV, appearing in shows like "Tenko," "The Colbys," and "Dynasty."
She even graced us with her presence in the 2014 series "Boomers." But this is far from the end of her story, Beacham is still going strong. She starred in the 2021 soap opera "Falcon Bay." Her career is a testament to her talent and commitment, and we look forward to seeing what she does next!
Miranda Richardson (Born in 1958) - Damage
Miranda Richardson, a woman with a vision, has not just been nominated for seven BAFTA Awards and an Academy Award for her debut performance in "Dance with a Stranger," but has also been a shining star in the entertainment industry for over four decades. She made her mark in the '70s and continues to be an inspiration to aspiring actors even today.
Her notable works include "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," "The Prince and Me," and "The Crying Game." Most recently, she has graced us with her presence on the 2019 show "Modern Love." She is the true embodiment of talent and passion.
Robert Carlyle (Born in 1961) - The Full Monty
From humble beginnings in Scotland, Robert Carlyle has become a force to be reckoned with in the acting world. He established a career out of portraying gruesomely violent characters, but his breakthrough role in "Trainspotting" remains his most memorable and striking.
Also, his iconic performances in films such as "The Full Monty" and "The World is Not Enough" have earned him immense renown and admiration. He is also loved for his more recent appearance in the 2020 movie "Joe Bell." Robert has been making waves for nearly three decades, and thankfully for us, he has no plans of slowing down any time soon.
Rowan Atkinson (Born in 1955) - Mr. Bean
Rowan Atkinson is a well-known comedian who has starred in movies and TV series as the title character, Mr. Bean. He has a flexible face, and he often delights his fans by adopting ridiculous expressions whenever the mood strikes him. It was during his time at Oxford University that he discovered his talent for comedy, and since then, he hasn't looked back.
Although he no longer performs as "Mr. Bean," he has appeared in a number of commercials in that role. Even though he rarely appears on screen these days, the legendary actor and entertainer is still very much alive and has yet to retire.
Brenda Blethyn (Born in 1946) - Pride & Prejudice
The illustrious Brenda Blethyn has been gracing the silver screen since the '70s, and her accolades are the envy of many. With a Golden Globe, a Cannes Film Festival award, and two Academy Award nominations, it's no wonder she has remained a staple in the industry.
From her first role in her late '20s to her appearances in "Pride and Prejudice," "A River Runs Through It," "Saving Grace," and "Kate and Koji," Blethyn shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to captivate audiences with her performances and will no doubt be remembered as a legendary actress for years to come.
Eileen Atkins (Born in 1934) - Upstairs, Downstairs
Eileen Atkins has been delighting audiences for almost seven decades, from her humble beginnings in the '50s to her latest role in 2019's "Doc Martin." Her work in iconic projects like "Upstairs, Downstairs," "The Scapegoat," and "What a Girl Wants" has earned her numerous accolades, including an Emmy and a BAFTA.
In 2021, she released her autobiography, "Will She Do? Act One of a Life on Stage," giving us a glimpse into the life and career of the veteran actress and screenwriter. There's no sign of Atkins stopping any time soon, so we can expect to see her entertain us for many years to come.
Sean Bean (Born in 1959) - Game of Thrones
Sean Bean is a true Sheffield icon, having graced the screens of some of the biggest productions of the past two decades. From "Game of Thrones" to "Lord of the Rings," his face is instantly recognizable and beloved by movie fans all over the world, even inspiring countless internet memes.
With over a hundred acting credits to his name, from "Snowpiercer" to "National Treasure" and "Silent Hill," the actor has made an indelible mark on the silver screen. His career began in the '80s and although he shows no signs of slowing down, one of his projects, "Time," was released in 2021. He is without a doubt a true star!
Helen Mirren (Born in 1945) - The Queen
Helen Mirren has been acting for over 60 years and has played a wide range of roles that show how talented and versatile she is. From Queen Elizabeth II in "The Queen" to the cunning con artist in "The Good Liar" to the brave colonel in "Eye in the Sky," she has won countless awards and achieved the acting triple crown in both the UK and the US.
Her most recent work, "White Bird: A Wonder Story," shows how hard she works and how determined she is to keep working in the industry. Mirren is an icon who will remain in our hearts forever.
Maggie Smith (Born in 1934) - Downton Abbey
The incomparable Dame Maggie Smith is an essential part of the British acting scene. With a career spanning over 60 years, she has graced us with her presence in a multitude of classic films and TV shows. From her Oscar-winning performance in "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" to her iconic role as Professor McGonagall in the "Harry Potter" series, Maggie Smith is an icon of the industry.
Additionally, she is still going strong and was featured in the 2022 release of "Downton Abbey: A New Era." Her talent and dedication to her craft have made her an inspiration to generations of actors.