Actresses Over 50 Achieving Unprecedented Success

While ageism continues to exist in Hollywood, the industry has transformed over the past decade. Today, discussions surrounding health, longevity, and openly acknowledging cosmetic procedures are challenging the notion that women lose their appeal as they age. More than ever, actresses in their 50s and beyond are defying stereotypes, showing that their most influential years can come later in life.

Actresses such as Monica Bellucci, Tracee Ellis Ross, Demi Moore, and Michelle Yeoh have spent decades perfecting their craft, breaking through barriers in the industry, and reshaping what a long and successful career in Hollywood looks like. With years of experience, newfound confidence, and greater control over their performances, these women are thriving in ways they never have before.

As Michelle Yeoh boldly stated in her historic 2023 Oscar speech, Ladies, dont let anybody tell you you are ever past your prime. This sentiment is echoed across Hollywood, where a growing number of actresses are proving that reaching 50 doesnt mark the end of their careers, but rather a new beginning.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross became a household name with the hit show Black-ish and has since expanded her career with ventures like her hair-care brand, Pattern Beauty, and her Roku series, Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross. Her multifaceted approach to her career mirrors the creativity and ambition she inherited from her mother, legendary singer Diana Ross.

Monica Bellucci

Monica Bellucci, known for her roles in Malna and the Matrix franchise, continues to be a prominent figure in international cinema. She is set to appear in Beetlejuice (2024) and the upcoming thriller 7 Dogs (2026). Bellucci's recent headlines also include her amicable split from director Tim Burton in 2025.

Demi Moore

Demi Moore, whose career took off with films like Ghost and G.I. Jane, entered a new chapter in 2024 with her role in the thriller The Substance, earning her major accolades, including a Golden Globe and a Critics' Choice Award for Best Actress. She's also gaining attention for her pivotal role in Landman (Season 2).

Pamela Anderson

Pamela Anderson, famed for her role in Baywatch, has continued to shine in recent years. Her memoir Love, Pamela and the documentary Pamela, A Love Story received widespread acclaim. In 2024, she earned praise for her role in The Last Showgirl, which offered a fresh perspective on her career.

Olivia Colman

Olivia Colman, with an impressive list of accolades including an Academy Award for The Favourite and an Emmy for The Crown, continues to captivate audiences with roles in The Lost Daughter and Heartstopper, further cementing her place as one of Hollywoods top talents.

Annette Bening

Five-time Oscar nominee Annette Bening remains a powerhouse in Hollywood. Nominated for her role in Nyad (2024), she has long been a fixture of quality films and is married to Warren Beatty, forming one of Hollywoods most enduring couples.

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor

Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, best known for her role in The Color Purple, earned her first Oscar nomination in 2022 for King Richard. She has also garnered critical acclaim for her work in When They See Us and Lovecraft Country.

Cynthia Nixon

Recognized for her iconic role as Miranda Hobbes in Sex and the City, Cynthia Nixon has expanded her influence as a passionate advocate for LGBTQ rights. She also earned acclaim for her role in And Just Like That and continues to be a notable figure in both film and activism.

J. Smith-Cameron

Known for her stage work, J. Smith-Cameron saw her career soar with her role in the hit HBO series Succession, earning two Emmy nominations. Her late-career breakthrough proves its never too late for reinvention.

Patricia Clarkson

Patricia Clarkson has expertly navigated both comedic and dramatic roles, with notable performances in Easy A and Shutter Island. She won a Golden Globe in 2019 for Sharp Objects and another in 2022 for State of the Union.

Youn Yuh-jung

After decades of work in South Korea, Youn Yuh-jung made history by winning an Oscar at 73 for her role in Minari, along with several other major awards, including a British Academy Film Award and a Screen Actors Guild Award.

Taraji P. Henson

Known for her portrayal of Cookie Lyon in Empire, Taraji P. Henson has had a thriving career in both film and television, with standout roles in Hidden Figures and Minions: The Rise of Gru.

Jennifer Coolidge

Jennifer Coolidge has enjoyed an incredible resurgence since 2021, starring in The White Lotus and receiving numerous awards, including an Emmy, Golden Globe, and Critics' Choice Award.

Viola Davis

Viola Davis is an unstoppable force, having won an Oscar, Golden Globe, and Emmy for roles in The Help and How to Get Away With Murder. In 2023, she achieved EGOT status, solidifying her legacy in Hollywood.

Jane Fonda

Since her debut in 1960, Jane Fonda has been an enduring star, from her iconic roles in 9 to 5 to Grace and Frankie, consistently captivating audiences with her diverse performances.

Lily Tomlin

Lily Tomlin, Fondas co-star in Grace and Frankie, has enjoyed a multi-faceted career in acting, writing, and music. She remains a beloved figure in Hollywood, celebrated for both her comedic and dramatic roles.

Cate Blanchett

Cate Blanchett has been a fixture in Hollywood for years, with Oscar-winning performances in The Aviator and Blue Jasmine. She continues to shine in major roles, including her critically acclaimed portrayal in Tr.

Frances McDormand

Frances McDormand, with three Academy Awards to her name, continues to deliver standout performances in projects like Nomadland, for which she also won Best Picture as a producer.

Michelle Yeoh

Michelle Yeohs breakout role in Tomorrow Never Dies gave way to an impressive career, but it wasnt until her starring role in Everything Everywhere All at Once that she earned widespread recognition, winning the Academy Award for Best Actress in 2023.

Julia Roberts

Julia Roberts has been a leading lady since the 90s, from Pretty Woman to Erin Brockovich. She remains a major star, continuing to headline films and maintain a private, stable family life.

Sheryl Lee Ralph

Sheryl Lee Ralph, whose career began in Broadways Dreamgirls, won an Emmy for her role in Abbott Elementary, becoming the first Black woman to win the award for Best Supporting Actress in 35 years.

Salma Hayek

Salma Hayek, best known for her role in Frida, continues to build her career with films like Beatriz at Dinner and her advocacy work for the #MeToo movement.

Laura Dern