15 Stars From the 70s Still Shining Today

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15 Icons from the 1970s Still Crushing it Today (wealthgang.com)

Still Shining Bright: Hollywood’s Enduring 70s Icons

The 1970s gifted us a truly golden age of Hollywood, a period defined by bold storytelling, iconic fashion, and a constellation of stars whose talent shaped a generation. Decades later, many of these legendary figures are not only still with us but continue to captivate audiences with their unwavering resilience and timeless appeal. These 15 Hollywood titans prove that genuine talent doesn’t fade with time; it simply evolves and shines brighter.

1. Jodie Foster

Her fearless performance in Taxi Driver (1976) cemented her as a 70s prodigy. Looking ahead to 2025, she’s set to star in the French thriller Vie Privée, a testament to her ongoing brilliance.

2. Clint Eastwood

Dirty Harry (1971) solidified his status as Hollywood’s quintessential tough antihero. At 95, he directed Jurado Nº2 (2024) and is already gearing up for another film in 2025, proving he’s still got that directorial fire.

3. Bruce Dern

Coming Home (1978) showcased his raw intensity and dramatic prowess. In 2024, he appeared in The World’s Happiest Man, continuing his streak of taking on complex roles. At 88, Dern remains one of Hollywood’s most prolific actors, demonstrating that emotional depth and authenticity are truly ageless.

4. Jessica Lange

Jessica burst onto the scene with her memorable role in King Kong (1976). In 2025, she’s slated to headline Long Day’s Journey Into Night, bringing her acclaimed stage triumph to the silver screen.

5. Christopher Walken

His Oscar-winning performance in The Deer Hunter (1978) made him an unforgettable presence. In 2025, Walken will grace our screens in Severance season 2 and has even fronted a Saint Laurent campaign. His career is a powerful example of how embracing one’s unique qualities can be a lifelong strength.

6. Helen Mirren

Already a force in the 70s, Helen Mirren became a symbol of elegance and power. In 2025, Mirren is set to star in The Thursday Murder Club (Netflix) and Mobland (Paramount+), while also continuing her role in 1923 season 2. At 80, she remains one of the most versatile actresses working today.

7. Dustin Hoffman

Kramer vs. Kramer (1979) perfectly displayed his remarkable gift for emotional depth.

In 2025, he makes his comeback with Tuner, a crime thriller. At 88, his continued presence reminds audiences of the vulnerability and humanity he so expertly brought to cinema’s golden age.

8. Martin Scorsese

With Taxi Driver (1976), Martin Scorsese undeniably defined 70s cinema. In 2025, he’s busy developing The Wager and has teased a Sinatra biopic, proving his storytelling passion remains as vibrant as ever.

9. Jeff Bridges

From The Last Picture Show (1971) to Tron (1982), Bridges built a career on a foundation of eclectic and memorable roles. In 2025, he’ll return in Tron: Ares, reprising his iconic role decades later, a testament to his resilience and enduring appeal.

10. Sally Field

Her Oscar-winning portrayal in Norma Rae (1979) embodied true resilience. In 2025, Field wrapped a new Netflix film, further adding to her impressive six-decade career. She continues to inspire with her activism and heartfelt honesty.

11. Robert De Niro

From Taxi Driver (1976) to The Godfather Part II (1974), De Niro became the definitive face of gritty realism. His method acting and intense performances defined the decade. In 2025, he stars in The Alto Knights, playing two rival mob bosses in a Barry Levinson drama, showcasing his continued mastery of the genre that made him famous.

12. Sylvester Stallone

Stallone’s Rocky (1976) transformed him into a global icon and a symbol of perseverance. In 2025, he’ll headline Alarum, a spy thriller, and remains active with Amazon Prime action projects, keeping his underdog spirit alive and kicking.

13. Jane Fonda

A formidable activist and Oscar-winning actress of the 70s (for Klute in 1971), Fonda perfectly embodied the era’s blend of glamour and political engagement. In 2025, she received the SAG Life Achievement Award, honoring her decades of activism and artistry. She continues to inspire through documentaries and public speaking engagements.

14. Harrison Ford

Launching into superstardom as Han Solo in Star Wars (1977) and Indiana Jones (1981), Ford quickly became the ultimate adventure hero of the late 70s. In 2024-2025, Ford stars in Marvel’s Captain America: Brave New World as General Ross and continues his acclaimed TV role in Shrinking (Apple TV+), seamlessly bridging blockbuster franchises with prestige television.

15. Al Pacino

Pacino’s intense performances in Serpico (1973) and The Godfather trilogy made him unforgettable, perfectly embodying the raw energy of 1970s cinema. Now 85, Pacino headlines The Ritual (2025), a horror film, and takes on a priest-exorcist role in a supernatural thriller, demonstrating his remarkable willingness to explore new genres even late in his illustrious career.