June Squibb’s Unstoppable Attitude: Embracing Life and Aging at 94
A veteran actress showcases how age can fuel daring creativity and joyful reinvention.
June Squibb isn’t just an actress—she’s a force of nature. At 94 years old, Squibb is headlining her first action film and teaching us all what it means to live fully and defy expectations about aging. Whether rolling out stunts on an electric scooter or candidly speaking about her decades in entertainment, she embodies resilience, wit, and boundless spirit.
A New Leading Role: Thelma and Defying Age Boundaries
In 2024, Squibb took on her first starring role in Thelma—an audacious, action-packed comedy where she plays a grandmother determined to take down phone scammers. Squibb’s performance isn’t just notable; it shatters stereotypes of what older adults can—and should—do on screen.
- She performed nearly all her own stunts. Only the wheelie was left to a stunt double.
- Squibb relished action scenes, including a dramatic spy-style roll on camera.
- The film centers on vulnerability—especially around scams targeting older adults—but delivers a message of empowerment and agency.
A Life in Entertainment: Six Decades of Reinvention
Squibb’s acting journey is a testament to longevity and reinvention. From her 1959 Broadway debut in Gypsy to memorable supporting roles in film and television, she’s embraced a wildly varied career—culminating now in her first action lead at 94.
- Noteworthy appearances include Alice, The Age of Innocence, Ghost Whisperer, and Shameless.
- Squibb’s story reinforces: there is no age limit on pursuing new challenges or dreams.
June Squibb’s Philosophy: Breaking the Rules of Aging
Squibb’s core message—the one she hopes her peers hear loudest—is defiant and liberating.
“Life is to be lived, my God. OK, I’m 94. There are no rules when you stop and think about it. You make your own—forget rules. Everything should be forgotten, I think, except: Go out and have a good time. Live the life you want to live. To hell with how old you are.”
- No rules to aging: Squibb says there are no laws or limits about what older adults should do.
- She urges others to resist self-imposed barriers—“You just shouldn’t stop yourself.”
This attitude isn’t new for Squibb. She shared with The Daily Beast that she’s always “broken rules,” never living life any other way.
Strengths That Come With Age
In interviews, Squibb articulates the unique gifts of growing older:
- Freedom from others’ expectations. Squibb finds it liberating not to care what others think, especially as an artist.
- Prioritizing personal desires: “There is no more ‘should’—it’s all ‘what do I want to do?’”
- The power of authenticity: Older adults can focus more on doing what is meaningful to them.
Squibb’s approach encourages embracing individuality, curiosity, and delight — at any age.
The Importance of Representation: Older Women as Action Leads
Hollywood rarely spotlights older women in action or central roles. Thelma is a milestone, showing that compelling stories don’t expire with age.
What others are reading
- Squibb follows in the footsteps of Ruth Gordon, who inspired with roles like Harold and Maude well into her 70s and 80s.
- Films featuring older women show audiences that interest and relevance aren’t dictated by the calendar.
- Why it matters: Breaking stereotypes opens opportunities for others and broadens audiences’ expectations.
Facing Vulnerability: Raising Awareness About Senior Scams
Thelma draws attention to a pervasive issue: phone scams targeting seniors. Squibb’s character isn’t the only one at risk. The film hopes to spark conversation and vigilance across generations.
- Scams remain a significant threat to older adults financially and emotionally.
- Squibb’s experience shines a light on both the real dangers and the strength to fight back.
Squibb’s Rules for Living: Advice for All Ages
Squibb’s perspective isn’t just for seniors; it’s a blueprint for anyone seeking courage, joy, and resilience.
| Rule | Description |
|---|---|
| Break the rules | Don’t be defined by external expectations—forge your own path. |
| Live with humor | Face challenges with wit and laughter; don’t take yourself too seriously. |
| Embrace vulnerability | Acknowledge challenges, but don’t let them define you or dim your spirit. |
| Pursue joy | Prioritize experiences and relationships that bring happiness. |
| Stay curious | Be open to new adventures, interests, and skills no matter your age. |
Celebrating Individual Paths: There’s No One-Size-Fits-All to Aging
Squibb acknowledges that her journey may look nothing like others at 94. She knows other nonagenarians pursuing their own dreams or interests, reinforcing that aging is as diverse as any other life stage.
- “People are so different at my age. I know other 90-year-olds doing different things than I’m doing.”
- The message: Comparison has no place in happy aging. Do what works for you.
Role Models and Inspiration
Squibb’s embrace of adventure and risk at any age reminds us of trailblazers before her. She mentions Ruth Gordon—an actress who worked and inspired until her last years—as an example that if you’re interesting, people will always want to watch.
Practical Takeaways: June Squibb’s Daily Practices
- Stay physically active: Squibb’s willingness to try stunts and new physical challenges is key to her vitality.
- Engage with the world: Whether on stage, on screen, or in interviews, ongoing engagement keeps her sharp.
- Laugh often: Humor is central to Squibb’s interactions and outlook.
- Challenge yourself: New roles, new risks—age doesn’t mean settling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How did June Squibb get her first leading role at 94?
Squibb landed her first starring role in Thelma after decades in supporting parts, showing that perseverance and openness to new opportunities create possibilities at any age.
Does June Squibb perform her own stunts in Thelma?
Nearly all of them. Squibb did everything except a wheelie on the scooter, proving her commitment to authenticity and adventure.
What is June Squibb’s advice for enjoying life as you age?
- Forget rules about what you should do; do what feels joyful.
- Don’t let age stop you from pursuing dreams or new hobbies.
- Prioritize fun, live with intention, and ignore naysayers.
Why is Thelma an important film for aging representation?
It breaks new ground by centering an older woman as an action hero, challenging stereotypes about both age and gender.
How can older adults protect themselves from scams?
While not covered in depth by Squibb, Thelma brings awareness to the vulnerability of seniors to scams. Staying informed, maintaining skepticism about unsolicited calls, and seeking trusted help are essential.
Conclusion: Living Loudly, Breaking Barriers
June Squibb’s story is a vibrant rejection of stereotypes and a rallying cry for anyone—young or old—who feels boxed in by expectations. Her infectious laughter, rebellious spirit, and focus on joy show us that life doesn’t end with a number, but expands with each choice to be bold, curious, and uniquely oneself.
- Life is to be lived. Age is not a limitation.
- Personal happiness comes from self-determination.
- The only rules that matter are those you make for yourself.
If June Squibb can take on action movie stunts, headline a film, and motivate crowds at 94, what’s really stopping the rest of us?
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