Veteran actress June Squibb, at 95, offers a profound look into Hollywood’s transformation, especially for women and age, while discussing her celebrated performances in films like Nebraska and Thelma, and her upcoming return to Broadway, solidifying her impactful legacy as a true artist.
At 95 years young, the incomparable June Squibb continues to captivate audiences and inspire fellow artists. Recently, while attending the star-studded Academy Museum Gala in Los Angeles, Squibb shared exclusive insights into her decades-long career and how she has witnessed Hollywood evolve, particularly for women and in addressing ageism.
A Shifting Landscape for Women in Film
Squibb’s observations highlight a significant shift in the industry. “I think that Hollywood has changed, because I’m a woman who has just done two films about a 90-year-old, and that never happened before, really,” Squibb stated, as reported by People. This profound statement underscores a newfound openness to narratives centered around older women, a stark contrast to earlier eras when such roles were virtually nonexistent.
Her recent acclaimed roles in films like Alexander Payne’s Nebraska, the action-comedy Thelma, and the upcoming Eleanor the Great stand as testaments to this evolution. These performances, all later in her career, are considered by Squibb herself to be among her best work, showcasing her enduring talent and the industry’s growing recognition of mature artists.
Becoming an Unlikely Action Hero at 94 in Thelma
One of Squibb’s most talked-about recent roles is the titular character in the action-comedy Thelma. Released in 2024, the film saw Squibb, at 94, taking on her first cinematic leading role, playing a grandmother who embarks on a quest for revenge after falling victim to a phone scam. What truly astonished fans and critics alike was Squibb’s commitment to her role, performing many of her own stunts.
Recalling her action scenes, which included rolling over a bench and crashing a motorized scooter, Squibb enthusiastically remarked, “I always think I could do whatever stunt is necessary in a film. I was so proud of myself doing this. The scooter was great fun — it was a joy to be on that.” Director Josh Margolin corroborated her resilience, noting in an interview with MovieMaker that the production team became increasingly confident in her ability as she “kept outdoing herself.” Thelma debuted at Sundance with a rare 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes, further cementing Squibb’s status as a breakout star.
A Storied Career: From Stage to Screen
Squibb’s journey in the performing arts began long before her recent cinematic triumphs. She launched her career in the theater, performing in various productions at the Cleveland Play House. Her talent quickly led her to Off-Broadway roles, culminating in her Broadway debut at the age of 30 in 1959’s Gypsy.
Despite her extensive theater background and numerous TV appearances, Squibb’s first feature film role didn’t arrive until her late 50s in Woody Allen’s 1990 film Alice. Her career gained significant recognition with her 2013 Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress in Nebraska, proving that groundbreaking success can come at any age. She has consistently delivered compelling performances, ensuring that each role is a testament to her dedication.
A Broadway Return in Marjorie Prime
Maintaining her incredible momentum, Squibb is set to return to Broadway in Jordan Harrison’s Pulitzer Prize-finalist play, Marjorie Prime. She will take on the titular role of a woman navigating memory and loss through interactions with a holographic companion. The science-fiction drama, featuring a star-studded cast including Cynthia Nixon, Danny Burstein, and Christopher Lowell, is scheduled to begin previews on November 20 and officially open on December 8 at the Hayes Theater in New York City.
Hopes for a Lasting Legacy: Being a “Good Actor”
When asked about what she hopes to be remembered for, Squibb’s answer was simple yet profound, reflecting her pure dedication to her art. “I just want to be known as a good actor,” she shared with People. “I mean, you know, I think we all want to feel that we’re doing our best work, and that’s — that’s what I want.”
This sentiment resonates deeply with her body of work and her continued pursuit of challenging roles, regardless of age. June Squibb’s career is not merely a collection of performances, but a living testament to the power of perseverance, the evolving nature of Hollywood, and the timeless pursuit of artistic excellence.
