Ellen Burstyn’s Busy Career at 90 Challenges Ageism in Hollywood
Ellen Burstyn, a renowned actress, has questioned the existence of ageism in Hollywood as she revealed that her career is busier than ever at the age of 90. In an interview with her co-star Christopher Meloni for Interview magazine, Burstyn expressed her surprise and gratitude for being offered numerous roles in her later years.
Continued Success at 90
“This is so bizarre. I turn 91 in December and I’m busier than I can ever remember being at any point in my career,” said Burstyn, known for her role in “Requiem for a Dream.” She further added, “And I don’t understand it at all. I mean, what’s all this stuff about ageism in Hollywood? How did I get left out of it?”
Ellen Burstyn questioned ageism in Hollywood as she revealed that her career is busier than ever at 90.(Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images)
Theory Behind Burstyn’s Success
When Burstyn was asked by her co-star Christopher Meloni about the reason behind her continually robust career, she offered one theory. Burstyn humorously stated, “I don’t know, except possibly that everybody else who could play those parts has already died, so I’m the only actress still standing who can play the great-grandmother or something.”
Achievements and Recognition
Throughout her seven-decade career, Burstyn has appeared in over 160 film and television projects. In 1975, she won the Best Actress Academy Award for her performance in Martin Scorsese’s 1974 film “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore.” Additionally, she received the Best Actress Tony Award for her role in the Broadway play “Same Time, Next Year.”
Burstyn has also been honored with two Emmy Awards for her guest appearances in the television series “Political Animals” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.”