These 20 talented actors hit the big 5-0 in 2024 and show no signs of slowing down! Years have gone by where they captured the imaginations of moviegoers with unforgettable performances on both film and television. Another year, another reminder that the talent they possessed and honed was legendary stuff-and yet many continue to pursue exciting new roles as proof that age is merely a number. Let's celebrate these stars who have completed 50 years this year.
1. Leonardo DiCaprio
Leonardo DiCaprio was born on November 11, 1974. He turned 50 in 2024, cementing his legacy as one of Hollywood's most versatile and enduring actors. He is known for his transformative performances in films such as Titanic, The Departed, and The Revenant, which have earned him critical and commercial success. DiCaprio took audiences by storm again with his Killers of the Flower Moon role in Martin Scorsese's direction in 2024. In the acting world, he had proven himself by adding a depth to such complex characters.
2. Christian Bale
Born on January 30, 1974, Christian Bale marked his 50th birthday this year, as it brought new highlights into this already long and busy career. His part in Amsterdam (2023), opposite Margot Robbie and John David Washington, keeps him in the limelight and showcases his range with the best of Hollywood talent. Transformative performances - be it in The Fighter, or Vice - have time and again been a proof of his commitment to this craft. Bale, still going strong at 50, stands out as one of the most versatile actors in this industry, and people await his next works eagerly.
3. Alyson Hannigan
Alyson Hannigan was born on March 24, 1974, and this year marked her 50th birthday in 2024. As such, this year added another chapter to her very loved career. She was best known for her roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and How I Met Your Mother. In 2024, she was in many headlines because of guest appearances and personal projects as she kept a low profile and enjoyed her life with her family. Still, people are fervently holding onto her earlier stuff, and even though she stayed far away from a strong mainstream role on TV, she has remained the figure of popular culture.
4. Seth Green
Seth Green was born on February 8, 1974, and celebrated his 50th birthday this year. His voice work was still ringing in the ears of audiences this year, especially as the creator and voice behind Robot Chicken. His long-standing role on Family Guy as Chris Griffin kept him in the spotlight. 2024 saw Green keeping his hand in both, animation, and comedy, constantly finding new ways to engage fans. Whether voicing characters or coming up with more content, Seth Green shows that age hasn't slowed his creative output as he continues to keep himself strong in the industry.
5. Donald Faison
Donald Faison, born on June 22, 1974, turned 50 years old in 2024. He is best known for his iconic role as Dr. Christopher Turk in the popular television series, Scrubs. Faison continued to be relevant in the entertainment world, making guest appearances and voice acting in many projects, including Family Guy, and, American Dad. His work in 2024 reflects a continued versatility, with comedic roles and more serious performances. Faison also keeps fans updated through social media regarding his family and life and continues to be his lively, earthy self.
6. Ryan Phillippe
Ryan Phillippe was born on September 10, 1974, and completed 50 years in this year. Celebrating the work of Phillippe crosses genres and time. The actor first got noticed in the film, Cruel Intentions, as Sebastian, further established himself in films such as I Know What You Did Last Summer, and Crash. In recent years, Phillippe was rediscovered with great success on television, especially through Big Sky, where he brought much complexity to this crime drama. Besides his acting career, Phillippe has become involved in production and direction, and continues active work for social justice change, juggling both creative pursuits and the desire for society to improve.
7. Jerry O’Connell
Jerry O'Connell, born on February 17, 1974, celebrated 50 years in 2024. He is best known for his role in the cult classic, Stand by Me, and as the star of Sliders. Still shaking things up in 2024, he continued appearing on The Talk and narrating animated series. Comedy and drama are still fields where he is an irreplaceable figure, strongly supported by fans. Humor and charm remain in his trademark.
8. Mark-Paul Gosselaar
Mark-Paul Gosselaar turned 50 on March 1, 2024, celebrating a career of decades. He became one of the teen icons in the '90s from his role as Zack Morris in Saved by the Bell. Gosselaar has since demonstrated his talent for drama in NYPD Blue, and comedy in Franklin & Bash. He recently stepped back into the role that brought him fame in the Saved by the Bell revival, proving that he had staying power.
9. Lark Voorhies
Born on March 25, 1974, Lark Voorhies turned the big 50 in 2024, marking another milestone in life and career. Most notably, she played Lisa Turtle in the popular '90s sitcom, Saved by the Bell. Voorhies was the epitome of fashion-forward for young viewers, who could relate to her. Although she hasn't been as visible as she once was, Voorhies returned to play her favorite role in the Saved by the Bell revival, much to the joy of loyal fans. Beyond acting, she is an established published writer, both with poetry and fiction writing, and a confirmation that Voorhies certainly is so much more than just some little-known, sitcom girl.
10. Tiffani Thiessen
Tiffani Thiessen was born on January 23, 1974, but she had nothing to mark her 50th year in 2024 besides the successful run she enjoyed in the entertainment world. From Saved by the Bell to Beverly Hills, 90210, the entire 90s generation can recall Thiessen. Still very fondly remembered by the fans, Thiessen now embarks on a new career path with family projects and food and lifestyle programming.
11. Mahershala Ali
Mahershala Ali was born on February 16, 1974. He turned 50 in 2024 and reflected on a career that has been marked by groundbreaking performances. He is known for his roles in Moonlight and Green Book. He has won two Academy Awards, which makes him one of the most accomplished actors in Hollywood. Ali's film, television, and theatre career has been diverse and successful, and his sustained success is a strong testimonial to his artistry and influence in the entertainment world.
12. Elizabeth Banks
Elizabeth Banks, born on February 10, 1974, turned 50 in 2024. The multifaceted actress is known for her work in The Hunger Games and Pitch Perfect, among many other things. Behind the camera, she is a director and producer, having done much work. In 2024, she had another hit film, Cocaine Bear, a dark comedy she directed. Banks' dynamic presence in comedy and drama combined with her advocacy for female directors in Hollywood makes her a great figure in the entertainment industry.
13. Olivia Colman
Olivia Colman was born on January 30, 1974, and thus she marked her 50th year in 2024. She continues to be at the peak of her career as an Oscar winner for The Favourite, a movie in which she played one of her masterful roles with deep dramatic and comedic ability. In 2024, she is starring in the Netflix hit, The Crown as Queen Elizabeth II, for which she received critical acclaim and her second Golden Globe. One of the most versatile actresses of her generation, Colman's commitment to her craft is unwavering, and she has undertaken a variety of roles in her career.
14. Joel Edgerton
Born on June 23, 1974, Joel Edgerton, one of the most versatile actors celebrated his 50th birthday in 2024. He has featured in movies such as The Great Gatsby, Loving, and Warrior, which have earned him critical acclaim for his powerful performances. Besides acting, he is also a filmmaker who directed movies like The Gift and collaborated with other artists on thought-provoking projects. In 2024, Edgerton continued his balancing act between acting and producing, with exciting new projects in the works.
15. Eva Mendes
Eva Mendes, born on March 5, 1974, was 50 years old in 2024, after having an acting, modeling, and entrepreneurship career beyond milestones. She achieved popularity with big films such as 2 Fast 2 Furious, Hitch, and The Place Beyond the Pines. For her part, she has managed a low-profile existence, all along focusing on her business enterprise, among which her well-known clothing line has taken center stage. Mendes also has partner Ryan Gosling to share her life with and continues using her fame for environmental health causes, among others.
16. Michael Shannon
Michael Shannon was born on August 7, 1974. He turned 50 in 2024 and marked a milestone in a career characterized by intense and transformative performances. With roles in Revolutionary Road, which earned him an Oscar nomination, and General Zod in Man of Steel, he continues to make waves in the film world with his unique presence. In 2024, he pushed new boundaries in indie dramas and his directorial projects. Off-screen, Shannon is feted for his commitment to theater and for his ability to swing easily between blockbuster movies and intimate stage productions.
17. Amy Adams
Amy Adams was born on August 20, 1974, and celebrated her 50th birthday in 2024 as one of the most respected actors of her generation. With versatile acting skills, she has won praise for Doubt, The Fighter, and Arrival. This year, Adams was also seen on the screens through her production company's backing of innovative projects such as Nightbitch, in which she acted. Offscreen, Adams is an outspoken advocate for children's education and mental health, and her commitment to making an impact outside of Hollywood shows through.
18. Joaquin Phoenix
Born on October 28, 1974, Joaquin Phoenix completed 50 this year confirming his place among the most interesting actors in Hollywood. He won an Academy Award for his performance in Joker in 2019, which transformed him completely and changed him into a unique performer. He had the greatest roles in Walk the Line, Gladiator, and The Master. Beyond acting, Phoenix is an outspoken environmental and animal rights advocate.
19. Hilary Swank
Born on July 30, 1974, Hilary Swank turned 50 in 2024, which marked decades of a glorious career. She is well known for her transformative performances, and the actress has won two Academy Awards for her performances in Boys Don't Cry and Million Dollar Baby, making her one of the finest talents of Hollywood. Swank, who had twins in 2023, balanced acting and motherhood, which she has embraced with her whole heart. Beyond her craft, she is an advocate for health awareness and social causes, which proves her dedication to making meaningful change both on and off the screen.
20. Penélope Cruz
Penélope Cruz was born on April 28, 1974, she completed 50 this year. Cruz continues to collaborate with Pedro Almodóvar for various films like Volver and Broken Embraces. Her Academy Award win for her performance in Vicky Cristina Barcelona and her role in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides gave her recognition among the audiences. In 2024, Penélope played a good-looking character in the spy thriller The 355. Besides acting, she is a fashion icon and philanthropist who has continued to mold the film and fashion world with her timeless talent and beauty.
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