Age is Just a Number: Fresh Photos of Last Century’s Divas!

Jennifer Coolidge – Born in 1961

From her humble beginnings in a small town in Massachusetts, Jennifer Coolidge has ascended to iconic status, largely due to her unforgettable roles and comedic brilliance. Her career, initially aspiring to dramatic heights akin to Meryl Streep, took a pivotal turn towards comedy, showcasing her unique talent in character acting.

Notably, her role as “Stifler’s mom” in “American Pie” catapulted her into the limelight, followed by her beloved character Paulette in “Legally Blonde.” Jennifer’s journey continued with her portrayal of Tanya McQuoid in HBO’s “The White Lotus,” which won her an Emmy and a Golden Globe in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

Catherine Bell – Born in 1968

With an illustrious career that took off with her role as Lieutenant Colonel Sarah MacKenzie in “JAG,” Catherine Bell has become a household name in the world of acting. Her performance was so compelling that NBC saw CBS pick it up after canceling the show. This led to the character’s development, which resonated deeply with audiences, partly due to Catherine’s authentic portrayal, which included speaking Persian.

Following “JAG,” Catherine continued to captivate viewers in the mystical role of Cassandra “Cassie” Nightingale in Hallmark’s “The Good Witch” films, a character she played from 2008 to 2015 and continued in the series that followed until 2021.

Jenna Jameson – Born in 1974

A titan in the adult entertainment industry, Jenna Jameson’s rise to fame began after her work as an exotic dancer and glamour model. By 1996, she had captured the “Top Newcomer” award from all three major adult movie organizations, a precursor to over 35 adult video awards and inductions into the X-Rated Critics Organization and Adult Video News Halls of Fame.

Jenna’s prowess wasn’t limited to in front of the camera; in 2000, she founded ClubJenna, a multimedia adult entertainment company that saw tremendous success. In 2023, she reflected on her groundbreaking career and early days during an appearance on the documentary series “Secrets of Penthouse.”

Nancy Sinatra – Born in 1940

Emerging from the colossal shadow of her father, Frank Sinatra, Nancy Sinatra carved her own niche in the music world with the 1966 hit “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.” It was a song that defined an era and became her signature piece​​.

Throughout the late 1960s, Nancy achieved significant success,  exploring various musical genres and collaborating with numerous artists. She became an early trendsetter in celebrity branding, venturing into fashion and cosmetics. Her role in the industry was further solidified with her participation in iconic films such as “The Wild Angels” and “Speedway,” alongside stars like Peter Fonda and Elvis Presley​​.

Sophia Loren – Born in 1934

Sophia Loren rose from humble beginnings in Italy to become an international film icon. Her beauty and talent led her to win an Academy Award for her role as Cesira in “Two Women.” Through this, she made history as the first to win an Oscar for a non-English-language performance.

Sophia starred in major films like “The Pride and the Passion” and “Houseboat.” Not just a symbol of beauty, Sophia’s acting prowess earned her numerous awards, crowned with an Academy Honorary Award in 1991 for her lifetime achievements. In 2020, at 86, she captivated audiences in “The Life Ahead,” proving her talent endures​​.

Sarah Lancashire – Born in 1964

Sarah Lancashire first made waves in 1987 with a minor role in “Coronation Street” before seizing her breakout opportunity in Willy Russell’s “Blood Brothers” in 1990. Her return to “Coronation Street” in 1991 as Raquel Wolstenhulme cemented her status as a household name, with her departure in 1996 drawing 20 million viewers.

Beyond that role, Sarah’s range was showcased in “Where the Heart Is” and “Clocking Off,” earning her acclaim and several awards, including Best Actress at the TV Quick Awards and Most Popular Actress at the National Television Awards in 2000. She remains committed to her craft, taking on new roles like Julia Child in the 2022 series “Julia​.”

Elizabeth Hurley – Born in 1965

Elizabeth Hurley first caught the public eye in the 1990s, notably for her role as Vanessa Kensington in “Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery” and as the Devil in “Bedazzled.” Her earlier ambition to be a dancer transitioned into a successful modeling career, highlighted by her long-standing association with Estée Lauder from 1995.

Elizabeth has maintained a prominent presence in both the fashion and entertainment industries. She ventured into television, starring in “The Royals” and portraying Morgan le Fay in “Runaways.” In 2021, her elegance and business acumen continued to thrive, evidenced by the launch of her beachwear line and her charity work​​​​.

Hero Fiennes Tiffin – Born in 1997

Hero Fiennes Tiffin first caught the public’s eye in 2009 as the young Tom Riddle in “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.” This role showcased his acting lineage and hinted at his future in film. His breakthrough, however, came with the “After” series, where he played Hardin Scott, catapulting him into the limelight and earning him a dedicated fanbase.

The series, spanning four sequels, solidified his place in the romantic drama genre. His career continued to diversify with roles in “The Silencing,” “The Woman King,” and “First Love.” In 2023, Hero wrapped up filming “The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare,” set for a 2024 release, venturing into wartime drama.

Joanna Lumley – Born in 1946

Born in Srinagar, British India, Joanna Lumley first dazzled as a model before enchanting audiences in 1969 as a Bond girl in “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” She skyrocketed to fame with roles in “The New Avengers” and “Sapphire & Steel,” eventually becoming a household name as Patsy Stone in “Absolutely Fabulous,” for which she won two BAFTA TV Awards.

Known for her distinct voice and activism, Joanna has also ventured into documentaries and stage, starring in “La Bête” on London’s West End. In 2023, she embarked on a spice-filled adventure in “Joanna Lumley’s Spice Trail Adventure,” exploring the rich tapestry of global flavors in the documentary​​.

Linda Haynes – Born in 1947

Linda Haynes left a lasting impression on the cinematic world through her compelling performances in the 1970s and early 1980s. Her acting voyage began with her film debut in “Latitude Zero,” showcasing her talent alongside notable actors like Cesar Romero and Joseph Cotten. She further captivated audiences in “Coffy,” “The Nickel Ride,” and the gripping “Rolling Thunder,” the latter standing out as a career highlight.

After a vibrant acting career, Linda chose a quieter life away from the spotlight, becoming a legal secretary. Quentin Tarantino and author Tom Graves re-discovered her, leading to a resurgence of appreciation for her work before she passed away in 2023.

Sarah Michelle Gellar – Born in 1977

Elevating to stardom with her iconic role as Buffy Summers in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” Sarah Michelle Gellar became a defining figure of 1990s television. Her acting began early at four, leading to her Emmy-winning performance in “All My Children” before she landed her career-defining role in “Buffy,” earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

Sarah’s magazine covers from Seventeen to Vogue showcase her influence beyond the screen, reflecting her evolving style and self-discovery post-30. With her venture into entrepreneurship, co-founding Foodstirs and publishing a cookbook, “Stirring up Fun with Food,” Sarah has also made her mark in the food industry​​​​.

Linda Lusardi – Born in 1958

Linda Lusardi, a notable figure in British entertainment, first captivated the public as a Page 3 girl in The Sun newspaper, quickly becoming a beloved glamour model by the late 1970s. Her transition from modeling to acting broadened her appeal, with memorable roles in “The Bill,” “Emmerdale,” and various stage productions.

Beyond her on-screen presence, Linda has demonstrated a deep commitment to charity, contributing significantly to organizations like the Willow Foundation and the Rhys Daniels Trust. Her foray into reality TV, particularly her participation in “Dancing on Ice” in 2008 and “Celebrity Masterchef,” further endeared her to audiences, highlighting her competitive spirit and culinary skills.

Alicia Silverstone – Born in 1976

First emerging as a teen idol, Alicia Silverstone’s early fame was sealed with her performance in “The Crush,” which bagged her the 1994 MTV Movie Award for Best Breakthrough Performance. Her star power skyrocketed after appearing in Aerosmith’s music videos “Cryin'” and “Crazy.” However, her role as Cher Horowitz in the 1995 cult classic “Clueless” is what made her a household name

That role earned her a multi-million dollar deal with Columbia-TriStar and multiple awards, including Best Female Performance at the 1996 MTV Movie Awards. Alicia is also a dedicated vegan, environmental, and animal rights advocate. She released vegan cookbooks, “The Kind Diet” in 2009 and “The Kind Mama” in 2014.

Jolene Blalock – Born in 1975

Jolene Blalock emerged into the limelight by portraying T’Pol, a Vulcan commander and science officer, in the television series “Star Trek: Enterprise.” Her character became one of the defining roles of her acting career. Before her iconic role, Jolene was recognized among the world’s most appealing women, gracing the covers of magazines like Maxim, Playboy, and FHM.

Over the years, she has contributed to various sci-fi films and shows, including guest appearances on “CSI: Miami,” “House,” and “Legend of the Seeker.” She has also been recognized for her work with nominations and awards, further cementing her place in sci-fi and television history.

Olivia Hussey – Born in 1951

Olivia Hussey’s entry into acting was early, marked by roles in “The Battle of the Villa Fiorita” and the 1965 “Cup Fever.” She became a global sensation at 17, starring as Juliet in Franco Zeffirelli’s 1968 “Romeo and Juliet.” The role earned her a Golden Globe and David di Donatello Award.

Despite declining roles alongside John Wayne, her career flourished with performances in “Black Christmas,” “Jesus of Nazareth,” and “Psycho IV: The Beginning.” In 2003, she fulfilled her lifelong dream of portraying Mother Teresa in “Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Olivia later reunited with her Romeo co-star Leonard Whiting, alongside her actress daughter India Eisley in the 2015 film “Social Suicide.”

Penny Smith – Born in 1958

Penny Smith, a prominent British author and television host, is renowned for her significant contributions across various media platforms. Since 1977, her career trajectory saw her backpacking through diverse cultures, eventually leading to pivotal roles at Radio Television Hong Kong, Radio Trent, and Sky News in its inception phase.

Her most distinguished tenure was at GMTV, starting in 1993, where she served as the principal newsreader and co-presented the prestigious Reuters News Hour, becoming a staple in morning news for over a decade. It was the end of an era when she left GMTV, but Penny has continued to make her mark in Scala Radio since March 2021.

Jo Guest – Born in 1972

Jo Guest initially stepped into the limelight through her glamour modeling career. She became well-known after appearing as a Page 3 girl in “The Sun” and graced the pages of numerous top-shelf magazines, including “Loaded” and “FHM.” She also appeared in “Playboy” videos, showcasing her versatility and appeal across various adult publications.

Beyond modeling, Jo explored various media avenues, hosting several television programs on the UK’s Men and Motors channel, including titles such as “Jo Guest’s Private Parts” and “Jo Guest in Jamaica.” In 2002, she ventured into competitive rally driving and contributed to Front magazine with a monthly advice column​​​​​​.

Susan Tully – Born in 1967

Susan Tully, a distinguished English actress, television producer, and director, is celebrated for her roles as Suzanne Ross in “Grange Hill” and Michelle Fowler in “EastEnders.” Her acting journey began in numerous child actor roles, eventually leading to her breakthrough in “EastEnders,” where she remained a central figure for a decade.

Transitioning from acting to directing in the late 1990s, Susan has since directed and produced many British television programs. She has notably directed episodes for “Line of Duty,” “The A Word,” and “Too Close,” among others. She continues to work behind the camera, with her directorial efforts seen in the “C.B. Strike” series that started in 2017.

Claire Forlani – Born in 1971

Claire Forlani’s entrance into the limelight was marked by her lead roles in “Mallrats” and the critically acclaimed “Basquiat” in the 1990s. Her portrayal in “Meet Joe Black” (1998), alongside Brad Pitt and Anthony Hopkins, significantly boosted her recognition, making her a familiar face in Hollywood.

Throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, Claire continued to appear in a mix of widely released and smaller-budget films, including “Mystery Men,” “Boys and Girls,” and “Antitrust.” Her versatility was further showcased in “The Medallion” (2003) and her performances on television, notably in “CSI: NY” and “NCIS: Los Angeles,”​​ before she began keeping a low profile.

Valerie Bertinelli – Born in 1960

Starting her ascent to fame on “One Day at a Time,” Valerie Bertinelli captured hearts as the relatable Barbara Cooper. Her infectious charm didn’t just win audiences; it earned her two Golden Globe Awards. After transitioning smoothly into the food world, her kitchen prowess led to hosting “Valerie’s Home Cooking” and “Kids Baking Championship” on Food Network, securing two Daytime Emmy Awards for the former.

In 2023, Valerie experienced significant personal milestones like her son Wolfgang Van Halen’s wedding, embracing adventures in Amsterdam and Paris, and even getting a new tattoo. Boasting over 2 million Instagram followers, she continues to share her love of cooking without restraint​​​​​​.

Julie Christie – Born in 1941

A luminous figure on the silver screen, Julie Christie emerged as a feminine symbol of the Swinging Sixties, captivating audiences worldwide. Her journey to stardom began with the 1963 film “Billy Liar,” but it was her roles in “Darling” and “Doctor Zhivago” in 1965 that cemented her status as a global icon.

For “Darling,” she won the Academy Award for Best Actress and continued to impress with every new performance, including her Oscar-nominated role in the 2007 film “Away from Her.” Christie was known for her distinctive style and persona, often choosing roles that reflected her adventurous and free-spirited nature.

Kim Fields – Born in 1969

From her early beginnings on “Good Times” to becoming a beloved figure as Tootie on “The Facts of Life,” Kim Fields has left an indelible mark on television. Her journey continued with notable roles on “Living Single” and on Netflix’s “The Upshaws,” showcasing her enduring appeal and versatility as an actress.

Not just confined to the small screen, Kim has ventured onto reality TV, joining “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” and competing on “Dancing with the Stars.” Despite the challenges of a long career in Hollywood, Kim has navigated her path with strength and grace, emerging as a role model for perseverance and authenticity in the entertainment world​​​​​​.

Michelle Pfeiffer – Born in 1958

Evolving from a Southern California girl to a cinematic icon, Michelle Pfeiffer captured audiences with her electrifying performance as Elvira Hancock in “Scarface.” This role catapulted her into stardom, establishing her as a versatile actress with a knack for embracing a broad array of characters across genres.

Her roles in “Dangerous Liaisons” and “The Fabulous Baker Boys” garnered critical acclaim, earning her Golden Globe wins and Academy Award nominations. Over the years, Michelle has dazzled in both the superhero realm as Catwoman in “Batman Returns” and in thought-provoking dramas like the 2020 “French Exit,” for which she received her eighth Golden Globe nomination.

Ali MacGraw – Born in 1939

Ali MacGraw’s ascent in Hollywood is a tale of grace, beauty, and the raw reality of fame. She started as a fashion model and a photography stylist. Then, her career took a monumental turn with her 1969 role in “Goodbye, Columbus,” which paved the way for her iconic performance in “Love Story.”

This film earned her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination. Post-Hollywood, Ali embraced a quieter life, focusing on personal growth and advocacy. Her footprint in the film industry was solidified with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2021, celebrating over fifty years since “Love Story” captured hearts worldwide.

Tara Reid – Born in 1975

From her breakout role in “American Pie” to becoming a cult classic star with “Sharknado,” Tara Reid has experienced the rollercoaster of Hollywood fame. Her early journey was marked by significant roles in hits like “The Big Lebowski” and “Josie and the Pussycats,” which skyrocketed her to fame.

After achieving widespread fame, Tara explored reality TV, appearing on “Celebrity Big Brother 8” in 2011. Over a decade later, she played the vampire queen in “Bloodthirst,” a 2023 horror movie, marking another intriguing chapter in her career. Beyond acting, Tara has ventured into several business enterprises, including investing in restaurants and launching her own lines of clothing and perfume.

Mena Suvari – Born in 1979

Launching into stardom with roles in “American Pie” and “American Beauty” in 1999, Mena Suvari quickly became a notable name in Hollywood. These films showcased her talent and earned her critical acclaim, with “American Beauty” bringing her nominations for both a SAG and a BAFTA Award. Since those early days of fame, Mena has explored various film and TV roles.

Venturing into fashion, she collaborated with designer Christian Audigier in 2009 on a clothing line. Mena has made her mark in the industry with various project types. In 2023, she was part of the “Breakwater” thriller alongside Dermot Mulroney, highlighting her enduring presence in the entertainment world.

Kim Cattrall – Born in 1956

Kim Cattrall has become synonymous with bold and iconic characters, most notably Samantha Jones from “S*x and the City.” This role not only garnered her international fame but also earned her a Golden Globe in 2002 and multiple Emmy nominations. Her filmography includes diverse roles in “Porky’s,” “Big Trouble in Little China,” and “Mannequin.”

Kim has continued to explore a variety of characters, including starring in “Sensitive Skin,” “Tell Me a Story,” and the botched 2020 series “Filthy Rich.” She also made headlines in 2023 for modeling in a campaign for Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand, SKIMS, dazzling fans with her timeless elegance and style.

Phylicia Rashad – Born in 1948

With an illustrious career transcending the realms of theatre, television, and film, Phylicia Rashad has firmly established herself as a towering figure in the entertainment world. Best known for her iconic role as Clair Huxtable on “The Cosby Show,” her portrayal resonated deeply with audiences, earning her critical acclaim and several Emmy nominations.

Her contributions to the stage are equally noteworthy, including becoming the first Black woman to receive the Tony Award for Best Actress in “A Raisin in the Sun.” Now, as the dean of the College of Fine Arts at Howard University, Phylicia is revered for her pioneering contributions and dedication to education.

Jennifer Coolidge – Born in 1961

From her humble beginnings in a small town in Massachusetts, Jennifer Coolidge has ascended to iconic status, largely due to her unforgettable roles and comedic brilliance. Her career, initially aspiring to dramatic heights akin to Meryl Streep, took a pivotal turn towards comedy, showcasing her unique talent in character acting.

Notably, her role as “Stifler’s mom” in “American Pie” catapulted her into the limelight, followed by her beloved character Paulette in “Legally Blonde.” Jennifer’s journey continued with her portrayal of Tanya McQuoid in HBO’s “The White Lotus,” which won her an Emmy and a Golden Globe in 2022 and 2023, respectively.

Maria Whittaker – Born in 1968

Maria Whittaker, a name synonymous with the glamour modeling scene of the 1980s, catapulted to fame as a topless Page 3 Girl in The Sun. Her modeling career began at the age of 16, and by 1989, she had clinched the title of Page 3 Girl of the Year, sealing her status as one of the era’s most beloved glamour models.

Maria explored her musical talents as the lead vocalist of Rhythm Zone, though the band’s journey was brief. Her acting in “Whoops Apocalypse” and “The Benny Hill Show” showcased her versatility across different entertainment mediums. She has now embraced a quieter life, focusing on her work as a nutritionist.

Melanie Griffith – Born in 1957

Melanie Griffith, born to actress Tippi Hedren, began acting in the 1970s. Her breakthrough came with the film “Body Double,” which won her the National Society of Film Critics Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her performance in “Something Wild” garnered acclaim, but her role in “Working Girl” became a defining moment, earning her an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe win.

Melanie continued to shine in films and on television, including “Buffalo Girls” and “RKO 281.” Her career has spanned decades, marked by her talent and ability to navigate critical acclaim and personal challenges​​​​. In 2017, she appeared in “The Disaster Artist.”

Karyn Parsons – Born in 1966

Karyn Parsons rose to fame as Hilary Banks on the NBC sitcom “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” captivating audiences from 1990 to 1996. Her performance in “Major Payne” further highlighted her comedic talent. Despite facing challenges in securing roles that were often competed for by Halle Berry, Karyn transitioned into a successful author.

She then founded the Sweet Blackberry Foundation to educate children about notable but underrepresented Black figures in history. In 2019, she ventured back into acting, playing Tracy in the short film “On Monday of Last Week” and has authored children’s books, including the novel “How High the Moon.”​​​​​

Tatyana Marisol Ali – Born in 1979

Tatyana Marisol Ali captured hearts worldwide as the endearing Ashley Banks on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” Her role on this iconic sitcom showcased her evolving talent as she transitioned from a young girl into a captivating actress and singer. Tatyana ventured into music, releasing her debut album “Kiss the Sky” in 1998, which featured the hit single “Daydreamin’.”

Her contributions to the arts were recognized in 2011 when she received the Living Legacy Award from the Caribbean Heritage Organization in Los Angeles. In 2023, she appeared in “Giving Hope: The Ni’Cola Mitchell Story,” proving her continued relevance and talent in the industry.

Rachael Leigh Cook – Born in 1979

Rachael Leigh Cook made a memorable mark in the late 1990s as the star of the teen romantic comedy “She’s All That.” Before fame, she was a child model appearing in nationwide ads. Her breakthrough role as Laney Boggs turned her into a household name, making the film a significant commercial success.

Rachael has a versatile career, including voice work for characters like Tifa Lockhart in the “Final Fantasy” series and various projects on the Hallmark Channel. She’s also a passionate advocate for arts education, and she was recognized by the Obama administration in 2011. In 2020, she starred in and produced the Netflix film “Love, Guaranteed.”

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