Shirley MacLaine | Source: Getty Images
Shirley MacLaine on the set of “Chrysler’s Shower of Stars,” 1955 | Source: Getty Images
The legendary “Terms of Endearment” star, who has graced the screen for over six decades, continues to captivate audiences with her enduring charm. With an impressive career that includes an Emmy Award, two BAFTA Awards, and seven Golden Globe Awards , her talent and grace are undeniable.
Shirley MacLaine on the set of “Chrysler’s Shower of Stars,” 1955 | Source: Getty Images
Now at age 90, she has shared the secret to her incredible longevity while unveiling a fresh take on her classic look. As the sister of renowned actor Warren Beatty, take a closer look at her remarkable transformation over the years that has left fans in awe of her timeless beauty.
Shirley MacLaine attends the Golden Globe Awards on February 24, 1955, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images
The Actress in the 1950s
In the 1950s, Shirley MacLaine sported a youthful, elegant look with short, reddish-brown hair styled in a soft, pixie cut. Her complexion was flawless, accentuated by bold red lips and minimal makeup, showcasing her natural beauty. The image reflects her fresh, captivating presence during the early days of her career.
Shirley MacLaine photographed on January 1, 1955 | Source: Getty Images
MacLaine in the 1960s
The actress embodied sophistication with her voluminous blonde hair styled in soft waves, framing her face perfectly. During this period, she continued to build on her illustrious career by taking on memorable roles, such as in “Irma la Douce” (1963), which earned the star her third Academy Award nomination.
Shirley MacLaine pictured on January 1, 1965 | Source: Getty Images
MacLaine in the 1970s
Meanwhile, MacLaine’s style evolved with a sophisticated, natural charm in the 1970s. She was once pictured with her auburn hair styled in soft, voluminous waves while dressed in a simple black top. Professionally, the 1970s were a dynamic period for MacLaine. She took on roles that continued to demonstrate her versatility and depth as an actress.
An undated image of Shirley MacLaine during a press conference in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
MacLaine in the 1980s
During this period, MacLaine exuded both confidence and playfulness, as shown in this striking image where she channeled a strong, empowering pose with her curly, reddish-brown hair. By this time, after two decades in the film industry, the veteran star finally won the Best Actress Oscar for her role in “Terms of Endearment” (1983).
Shirley MacLaine pictured on June 24, 1982 | Source: Getty Images
MacLaine in the 1990s
At this point in her life, MacLaine embraced a chic, sophisticated look, as seen in the photo where she was elegantly dressed in black with her signature red hair cut into a sleek, layered style with bangs. During this time, she received critical acclaim for her role as Meryl Streep’s mother in “Postcards from the Edge” (1990) and for her performance in “Guarding Tess” (1994).
Shirley MacLaine pictured on January 1, 1992 | Source: Getty Images
MacLaine in the 2000s
The author continued to showcase her timeless elegance, as reflected in this image where she sported a sleek, short hairstyle in a rich, honey-blonde shade. Her understated makeup, paired with bold red lips and dangling earrings, highlighted her refined look during this era as she remained active in both film and television.
Shirley MacLaine during The 12th Annual Premiere Women in Hollywood on September 20, 2005, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
MacLaine in the 2010s
In this era, the Virginia native maintained her radiant presence, as seen in this picture where she sported a short, curly hairstyle in a warm brunette shade. In this decade, MacLaine continued to shine both on-screen and as an author. She release a book titled, “Sage-ing While Ag-ing,” and starred in the romantic comedy “Valentine’s Day” (2010).
Shirley MacLaine attends the Career Transition for Dancers 30th Anniversary Pearl Jubilee reception honoring Shirley MacLaine on September 28, 2015, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images
MacLaine in the 2020s
In the 2020s, MacLaine continued to radiate grace and sophistication. In this image from 2023, she stood confidently on the red carpet at the Industry Dance Awards. MacLaine’s silver hair was styled in a soft, voluminous cut, and she wore a black ensemble adorned with colorful floral embroidery.
Shirley MacLaine attends the 2023 Industry Dance Awards and Cancer Benefit Show on October 18, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
After seeing her sporting gray hair, Facebook users commented on the film star’s appearance.
“Shirley was one of my favorite actress!”
said one person. Another stated , “She’s always had the cutest twinkle in her eyes. It’s still there at 90!”
Someone else gushed , “Wow! Didn’t realize she was so old! ” While a third added , “Bright eyes as ever. Forever bright beauty!”
Shirley MacLaine at the 2023 Industry Dance Awards on October 18, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
In 2023, MacLaine was often seen running errands alone in Malibu, dressed casually with no makeup, a stark contrast to her glamorous on-screen image. While some fans noted her frail appearance and speculated about her strained relationship with her daughter, MacLaine has openly embraced solitude.
Annette Bening and Shirley MacLaine at the 2023 Industry Dance Awards on October 18, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
She made another rare public appearance in July 2024 in Malibu dressed in a zip-up jacket paired with a blue shirt and black pants. She sported glasses and carried a black purse.
YouTube users commented on photos of the star out and about with one writing , “My goodness – I just didn’t think of her like this. Age catches up with all of us if we live long enough.”
Another admitted , “I never would have recognized her. Went from beautiful red hair to gorgeous white hair. Hope she is doing well.”
Annette Bening, Shirley MacLaine, and Amanda Kloots at the 2023 Industry Dance Awards on October 18, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
She spends much of her time at her New Mexico ranch, enjoying the company of her dogs and occasional visits from friends. Despite living alone, the “Steel Magnolias” star remains content with her lifestyle.
Adam Shankman and Shirley MacLaine at the 2023 Industry Dance Awards on October 18, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
On her 90th birthday in April 2024, MacLaine revealed that her secret to longevity is rooted in her dance training, which she began at age three and continued until she was 67. The discipline and resilience she gained from dancing have been key to her long, successful life.
MacLaine expressed gratitude for her ability to keep working and for the health and friendships she continues to enjoy. With a busy year ahead, she’s set to release her photo memoir, “The Wall of Life,” on October 22, 2024. “I have lived a wonderful life and I wanted to share it,” MacLaine noted of her book in an interview. “All of the photos brought back such wonderful memories.”
Annette Bening and Shirley MacLaine onstage at the 2023 Industry Dance Awards on October 18, 2023, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
At her age, Shirley MacLaine remains vibrant and active, embracing both her work and her personal passions. With a lifetime of achievements behind her and new projects on the horizon, she continues to inspire with her resilience and gratitude.