1. Morgan Freeman
Morgan Freeman, at 87, is one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors. Known for his deep, calm voice and memorable roles in The Shawshank Redemption and Bruce Almighty, Freeman is a cherished figure in the film industry. However, as he’s aged, his presence in Hollywood has gradually diminished, with fewer roles coming his way. This decline has been tough for Freeman, who has always been deeply passionate about his craft.
Adding to his career struggles, Freeman has faced personal tragedies and controversies. Several years ago, accusations of inappropriate behavior were made against him, which he denied, but the damage to his reputation was done. He has also endured heartbreaking personal losses, such as the tragic death of his step-granddaughter. These combined challenges have left him in a quieter, lonelier phase of life. Freeman is grateful for his accomplishments, but there’s an undeniable sense of sadness in the contrast between his vibrant past and more subdued present.
2. Danny Glover
Actor and activist Danny Glover, now in his late seventies, is known for iconic roles in Lethal Weapon and The Color Purple. But despite a long and impactful career, Glover has faced hardships in recent years. In addition to dealing with the typical challenges of aging, he has been highly involved in activism, speaking out on issues like workers’ rights and social justice. His outspoken views, though respected by many, have sparked criticism from others, affecting his career opportunities and sometimes making him a polarizing figure.
Balancing his dedication to advocacy with his personal life has also been challenging. Glover has been married twice, and the demands of his career and activism have sometimes strained his relationships, including with his daughter, Mandisa. As he grows older, Glover finds himself more isolated, grappling with a quiet loneliness that has come with a reduced presence in Hollywood.
3. Fred Williamson
Fred Williamson, known as “The Hammer,” has had an extraordinary life, starting as a professional football player and transitioning to a successful career in film as an actor, director, and producer. At 85, he continues to pursue his passion for filmmaking through his production company, Po’ Boy Productions. Despite his persistence, working in the highly competitive film industry has not been easy for Williamson. His projects often operate on tight budgets, forcing him to get creative with limited resources to bring his vision to life.
Williamson has also faced controversies, like a 2011 incident in which he made headlines after an altercation with actor Gary Busey on a movie set. Though Williamson has an estimated net worth of around $15 million, financial pressures remain due to the high costs of filmmaking. Life may be quieter now for Williamson, but he remains driven by a passion that few can match.
4. Garrett Morris
Garrett Morris, the first Black cast member on Saturday Night Live, made a name for himself with his comedic talent, breaking barriers in entertainment. Over the years, he has appeared in numerous projects, from Martin to This Is Us, and at 87, he’s still working in television. However, age has brought its own set of challenges for Morris, particularly in terms of health. He suffers from arthritis, which he humorously calls “arthur-itis,” though the daily pain has limited his once energetic lifestyle.
In addition to physical challenges, Morris has also battled addiction, successfully overcoming a cocaine habit over a decade ago. His personal life has been rocky as well; he and his wife Freda are currently going through a divorce, a painful process that has added to his emotional burdens. Although his later years are challenging, Morris remains dedicated to his craft, finding solace in humor and his work.
5. Billy Dee Williams
Best known for his role as Lando Calrissian in Star Wars, Billy Dee Williams became an icon in Hollywood, admired for his charm and charisma. Even at 87, he continues to make appearances, including a recent role on And Just Like That. Despite his successful career, Williams has encountered difficulties, particularly with adjusting to today’s cultural norms. After a podcast appearance in which he commented on the freedom actors have to express themselves, he faced backlash from fans who felt his comments were out of touch.
On the personal side, Williams has had his share of ups and downs. He’s been married three times and has three children, though he’s mentioned that he doesn’t get to spend much time with them. Despite his immense success, this distance from his loved ones has contributed to feelings of loneliness and insecurity in his later years.
6. Bill Cosby
Bill Cosby’s life has taken a dark turn from his days as a beloved comedian and actor, famously known as “America’s Dad” on The Cosby Show. His legacy was shattered in recent years when more than 60 women came forward, accusing him of sexual assault and other offenses. In 2018, Cosby was convicted of drugging and assaulting Andrea Constand and sentenced to prison, though his conviction was overturned in 2021.
This public downfall has left Cosby’s life in a state of turmoil, with his once-glowing reputation tarnished. Once a figure of humor and positivity, he now faces harsh scrutiny and isolation, marking a tragic end to a career that once brought joy to millions.