Chloe Peterson
13 Beloved ’70s Hollywood Stars Who Still Light Up the Screen Today
Hollywood has always been a place where stars shine bright, but some legends never fade. The 1970s gave us some of the most talented actors who changed movies forever, and guess what? Many of them are still working today, proving that real talent never gets old. From action heroes to dramatic powerhouses, these stars continue to captivate audiences just like they did decades ago.
1. Robert De Niro
A powerhouse of ’70s cinema, De Niro cemented his legacy with unforgettable performances in Taxi Driver and The Godfather Part II. His method acting approach revolutionized how actors prepared for roles, earning him respect across generations.
Today, he continues commanding the screen in Netflix’s Zero Day (2025) and the upcoming thriller The Whisper Man. At over 80 years old, his dedication to his craft remains unmatched.
De Niro proves that age is just a number when it comes to delivering powerful performances. His ability to transform into any character keeps audiences coming back for more, decade after decade.
2. Meryl Streep
Rising to prominence in the late ’70s with The Deer Hunter and Kramer vs. Kramer, Streep became one of Hollywood’s most respected talents. Her emotional range and ability to master any accent made her stand out immediately.
She now returns as Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada 2 and may join Greta Gerwig’s Narnia universe. Fans worldwide are thrilled to see her reprise one of her most iconic roles.
With a record number of Oscar nominations, Streep continues to set the standard for excellence. Her passion for storytelling and commitment to authenticity inspire actors everywhere, proving she’s truly timeless.
3. Sylvester Stallone
Exploding into stardom with Rocky in 1976, Stallone defined underdog grit for a generation. He wrote the screenplay himself and insisted on playing the lead, a gamble that paid off spectacularly.
Decades later, he’s still punching, starring in Tulsa King Season 3 (2025) and new action projects like Alarum. His transition to television has introduced him to younger audiences who appreciate his tough-guy charm.
Stallone’s career proves that determination and hard work create lasting success. Whether throwing punches or delivering heartfelt dialogue, he remains one of Hollywood’s most beloved action heroes with no signs of slowing down.
4. Jodie Foster
As a child star of Taxi Driver in 1976, Foster showed early brilliance that set her apart in Hollywood. Her mature performance at such a young age shocked critics and audiences alike, proving she was destined for greatness.
She remains selective but acclaimed, recently earning praise at Cannes 2025 for A Private Life. Foster chooses projects that challenge her, preferring quality over quantity in every decision she makes.
Beyond acting, she’s also an accomplished director who champions meaningful stories. Her intelligence and thoughtful approach to her career have made her one of the industry’s most respected figures, inspiring generations of performers.
5. Al Pacino
A defining face of ’70s cinema, Pacino’s roles in The Godfather series and Serpico made him an icon of intensity. His explosive energy and commitment to authenticity brought complex characters to life like never before.
Now in his 80s, he continues to take on diverse roles with several film and TV projects in development through 2026. Pacino never lost his hunger for challenging material that pushes his boundaries.
His signature shout and unforgettable line deliveries have become part of pop culture. From gangsters to lawyers, Pacino’s versatility keeps him relevant and celebrated, proving true talent transcends time and trends in the entertainment world.
6. Clint Eastwood
Already a Western legend by the ’70s, Eastwood reinvented himself as a director with Play Misty for Me and The Outlaw Josey Wales. His transition from actor to filmmaker was seamless, showcasing his storytelling instincts.
At 95, he’s still behind—and occasionally in front of—the camera, showing no signs of full retirement. His work ethic and dedication to filmmaking remain extraordinary, inspiring younger directors to follow their vision.
Eastwood’s minimalist directing style and powerful screen presence changed cinema forever. Whether squinting in Westerns or crafting Oscar-winning dramas, he remains a Hollywood institution who refuses to fade away from the spotlight.
7. Jane Fonda
The ’70s saw Fonda become both an Oscar-winning actress and a cultural activist. Her fearless approach to controversial topics made her a lightning rod for discussion, but she never backed down from her beliefs.
Today, at 87, she balances her environmental advocacy with acting in fresh film and television roles. Fonda’s energy and commitment to social justice continue to inspire people around the world.
She revolutionized fitness culture in the ’80s and remains a symbol of strength and resilience. Her ability to reinvent herself while staying true to her values makes her one of Hollywood’s most fascinating and enduring figures throughout multiple generations.
8. Harrison Ford
Ford shot to superstardom as Han Solo in Star Wars (1977) and Indiana Jones soon after. His roguish charm and everyman quality made him the perfect action hero for audiences craving relatable adventures.
He continues his action legacy in Captain America: Brave New World (2025) while also shining on TV in Shrinking. Ford’s willingness to embrace new challenges keeps his career fresh and exciting.
From smugglers to archaeologists to presidents, Ford’s range is remarkable. His grumpy-yet-lovable persona has made him a fan favorite for nearly five decades, proving that authentic charisma never goes out of style in Hollywood.
9. Anthony Hopkins
After earning respect in the ’70s for his commanding stage and screen performances, Hopkins became a global name. His Shakespearean training gave him a powerful foundation that elevated every role he touched.
He remains prolific, starring in Locked (2025) and Wife & Dog alongside Benedict Cumberbatch. Hopkins approaches each character with meticulous preparation and fearless emotional honesty.
His portrayal of Hannibal Lecter terrified and fascinated audiences worldwide. Even in his late 80s, Hopkins continues to surprise viewers with unexpected choices and profound performances that remind us why he’s considered one of the greatest actors alive today.
10. Jamie Lee Curtis
Crowned a scream queen with her debut in Halloween (1978), Curtis quickly became a household name. Her ability to convey genuine terror while remaining relatable made her the perfect horror heroine for a generation.
She’s still active, filming Ella McCay (2025) and pursuing passion projects as she plans her gradual step back from acting. Curtis has been refreshingly honest about aging in Hollywood and choosing roles that matter.
Beyond horror, she’s proven her comedic and dramatic talents in countless films. Her Oscar win for Everything Everywhere All at Once validated her decades of versatility, showing that persistence and talent eventually receive their due recognition.
11. Jeff Bridges
Known for standout ’70s roles in The Last Picture Show and Thunderbolt and Lightfoot, Bridges became a symbol of rugged cool. His natural ease on camera made even complex characters feel accessible and real.
He’s back in the spotlight with TRON: Ares (2025) and a reflective documentary, Jeff Bridges: A Reluctant Star. After battling cancer, his return to acting has been celebrated by fans worldwide.
The Dude from The Big Lebowski became a cultural phenomenon that defined his career. Bridges’ zen-like approach to life and work makes him one of Hollywood’s most beloved and genuinely authentic performers who never takes himself too seriously.
12. Sigourney Weaver
Her career launched with Alien (1979), cementing her as one of sci-fi’s most iconic heroines. Ripley broke stereotypes by being tough, intelligent, and vulnerable all at once, changing action movies forever.
Decades later, she continues her genre reign in The Mandalorian & Grogu (2026) and may even reprise Ellen Ripley in a new Alien film. Weaver’s return to sci-fi franchises excites longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Standing tall at six feet, her physical presence matched her powerful performances. Weaver proved women could lead blockbuster action films and opened doors for countless actresses who followed, making her a true pioneer in Hollywood history.
13. Sally Field
Breaking out in the ’70s with Smokey and the Bandit and Norma Rae, Field charmed audiences with her heartfelt performances. Her famous Oscar speech, where she declared people liked her, became an unforgettable cultural moment.
She’s still captivating viewers, co-starring in Netflix’s Remarkably Bright Creatures (2025). Field brings warmth and authenticity to every role, making even small parts memorable with her natural talent.
From comedy to drama, she’s mastered every genre with grace and skill. Her ability to connect emotionally with audiences has made her one of America’s most treasured actresses, proving that genuine talent and likability never fade with time.
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