In an industry where “forever young” is almost a tagline, some stars showed that age is simply another part to play. These icons didn’t just survive in the limelight but also outlived it, reaching 100 (and beyond!) with class, humor, and wisdom. From everyday routines to daring attitudes, here are 10 Hollywood legends’ secrets to long, lasting lives.
10. Norman Lear – Do What You Love, Every Day
Norman Lear did not merely produce TV—he revolutionized it. The creator of All in the Family and The Jeffersons continued to work until the age of 101, declaring the secret to longevity to be simply doing what brought him joy. For him, work was both prayer and play, an indication that passion could very well be the best medicine.
9. Kirk Douglas – Laugh Often, Give Back
The real Spartacus lived to the age of 103 and attributed two things: humor and generosity. Douglas liked to say that laughter adds years, but doing good for others makes life lighter. He demonstrated the point with jokes, charity, and even a b-day vodka toast at his 100th birthday celebration.
8. Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother – Don’t Overthink It
Still waving to crowds at 100, Queen Mother never succumbed to continuous health trends. Her plan was this: life’s too short to obsess, because “you never know when a bus might come along.” Her tip? Enjoy yourself now—rules can wait.
7. Bob Hope – Keep Moving
Oscar hosted a record 19 times, and Bob Hope was as renowned for his wit as for his regimen. He strolled two miles a day, a discipline learned from his grandfather, who lived a long life as well. That daily walk, combined with nonstop activity, kept him alert up to the age of 100.
6. Olivia de Havilland – Love, Laughter, and Light
The Gone with the Wind actress lived to 104, and her secret was a simple one: be surrounded by love, laugh a lot, and keep it light. She kept her mind sharp with crossword puzzles and never lost hope for the next adventure—so much so that she even titled her memoir I Just Kept Hoping.
5. Gloria Stuart – Refuse to Slow Down
Best remembered as “Old Rose” in Titanic, Gloria Stuart lived to be 100 and never believed in being weak. Even at the age of 90, she continued to act, paint, and stay on the move. Her daughter explained she just didn’t “believe in illness”—and that determination kept her going.
4. George Burns – Stress Less, Enjoy More
George Burns was the poster child for centenarians, dying at 100 with his signature cigar clutched in his hand. His credo? Love your job, don’t waste energy worrying, and appreciate life’s little pleasures (such as a couple of drinks). His humor—and attitude—kept him young at heart, ageless.
3. Ellen Albertini Dow – It’s Never Too Late
You likely remember her as the rap grandma in The Wedding Singer. Ellen Albertini Dow didn’t discover her big moment until her 80s, but she continued working until 100 years old. Her secret was evidence that staying active and beginning anew at any age can put spring in your step.
2. Jimmy Carter – The Power of Partnership
The ex-president of the U.S. (and, yes, lifelong public servant is entertainment as well) survived to 100 and attributed a lot of his longevity to his wife, Rosalynn. Carter frequently stated that marriage, love, and community kept him alive and active. Research supports him: social connections are one of the best predictors of a long lifespan.
1. Eva Marie Saint – Simple Joys, Always
Oscar winner Eva Marie Saint celebrated her 100th birthday with four generations of loved ones. She credited her longevity to walking in the open air, viewing baseball (go Dodgers!), and enjoying time with friends and family. For Saint, a rich life was founded on simple pleasures and appreciation.
Hollywood’s centenarians show that it’s not a matter of miracle diets or magical potions. It’s movement, laughter, passion, love, and living fearlessly. Whether sitcoms, daily walks, or just rooting for your favorite team, happiness may well be the true fountain of youth.