TV Shows That Let Older Actors Shine in Complex Late-Career Roles

Television is currently enjoying a renaissance for established actors, with shows offering them complex and realistic roles. These series capitalize on the depth and skill of veteran performers, using them to lead compelling dramas and smart comedies. By focusing on older main characters, creators are delving into themes like what people leave behind, facing the end of life, and finding new purpose. This shift is happening because viewers are increasingly interested in stories that honestly portray life at every age.

‘Better Call Saul’ (2015–2022)

Jonathan Banks gives an exceptional performance as Mike Ehrmantraut, a tough and reserved ex-cop who now works for criminals. The show reveals the heartbreaking story of how he became the man he is, and how he compromised his values to provide for his granddaughter. Banks portrays Mike with a quiet power and commanding presence, making the show’s most stressful scenes even more impactful. He’s been widely recognized for his ability to communicate deep feelings with very few words and subtle expressions, earning him several award nominations.

‘Succession’ (2018–2023)

Brian Cox powerfully plays Logan Roy, the head of a huge media company, in this series. He expertly shows a man who is both strong and unpredictable, desperately trying to keep his company and family under control. Cox uses his voice and physical presence to create a leader who is getting weaker physically but remains incredibly intelligent. His performance has been widely praised, making Logan Roy one of the most iconic TV characters of recent years.

‘Downton Abbey’ (2010–2015)

Maggie Smith plays Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham, a character who offers a witty and old-fashioned viewpoint on England as it changed in the early 1900s. Known for her sharp observations and dry humor, Violet deals with the difficulties faced by the upper class during this time. Smith’s performance beautifully shows a strong woman trying to hold onto her beliefs while her family’s world modernizes around her. Her portrayal of this character has won her several Emmy Awards and is a beloved part of the show.

‘The Crown’ (2016–2023)

Imelda Staunton plays Queen Elizabeth II in the later seasons of the show, focusing on the difficult years of the 1990s and early 2000s. She portrays the Queen as someone trying to fulfill her royal responsibilities while dealing with family problems and a changing public view of the monarchy. Staunton skillfully shows how the Queen’s personality evolves as she gets older and experiences personal losses. Her performance offers a realistic and understanding look at the difficulties of preserving a royal tradition in today’s world.

‘Shōgun’ (2024)

Hiroyuki Sanada plays Lord Toranaga, a strong and clever leader in feudal Japan, who must carefully maneuver through a dangerous political world. Sanada expertly portrays a leader who is both a brilliant strategist and deeply committed to tradition. His performance is key to the show’s themes of power, loyalty, and the clash between Eastern and Western cultures. Sanada was also a producer, helping to make sure the series was historically correct and culturally rich.

‘Schitt’s Creek’ (2015–2020)

Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy play Moira and Johnny Rose, a couple who go from being rich to starting over in a small town. O’Hara’s portrayal of the quirky and over-the-top Moira became incredibly popular, thanks to her unusual way of speaking and extravagant outfits. Levy plays Johnny as the sensible husband who tries to keep the family stable while they adjust to their new life. Both actors were praised for transforming their characters from shallow socialites into people viewers could truly relate to and feel for.

‘Big Little Lies’ (2017–2019)

Meryl Streep appeared in the second season as Mary Louise Wright, a mother struggling with the loss of her son and determined to uncover the truth about his death. Her performance is a haunting look at a grieving woman who subtly manipulates those around her, making her a powerful and intimidating opponent to the show’s main characters. Streep expertly uses small physical gestures and a unique way of speaking to create a character who feels both vulnerable and dangerous. Her addition brought a new level of psychological suspense to the show’s already complex mystery.

‘Hacks’ (2021–)

Jean Smart plays Deborah Vance, a famous Las Vegas comedian struggling to stay popular as the entertainment world changes. The show focuses on her complicated connection with a young writer, showing how different their views on comedy and life are. Smart gives an amazing performance, expertly combining funny moments with the sadness of a woman nearing the end of her career. She’s won several Emmy Awards for this role, proving she can handle everything from silly physical comedy to deeply moving emotional scenes.

‘Only Murders in the Building’ (2021–)

Steve Martin and Martin Short play neighbors, Charles-Haden Savage and Oliver Putnam, who unexpectedly become friends through their shared love of true crime. The show relies on the actors’ well-established comedic timing to create a mystery that’s both funny and thrilling. Martin portrays a lonely, former actor, and Short plays an energetic but struggling Broadway director. Together, they prove that experienced comedic performers can successfully transition to today’s streaming television.

‘Slow Horses’ (2022–)

Gary Oldman plays Jackson Lamb, a highly intelligent but messy and unpolished leader of a unit for MI5 agents who haven’t quite succeeded. Oldman fully embodies Lamb’s unpleasant personality and disheveled look, creating a character who is both off-putting and remarkably clever. The show gives Oldman the chance to deliver a gritty, world-weary performance that challenges typical spy stereotypes. Critics have applauded his nuanced portrayal, highlighting how he hints at Lamb’s underlying skill and surprising dedication despite his cynical attitude.

‘Grace and Frankie’ (2015–2022)

Grace and Frankie follows the story of two women whose lives are turned upside down when their husbands announce they’re falling in love with each other. Starring Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, the series explores the challenges and opportunities facing older women, from starting new businesses and dealing with health concerns to navigating the world of dating later in life. The long-running show – which spanned seven seasons – is notable for its realistic portrayal of a close friendship and for being a leading example of television focused on the experiences of seniors.

‘The Kominsky Method’ (2018–2021)

I absolutely love watching Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin together as Sandy and Norman. They play these two old friends in Los Angeles, and it’s just so real how they deal with getting older. Michael Douglas is fantastic as an acting coach who always dreamed of being a bigger star, and Alan Arkin is perfect as his agent, who’s recently lost his wife. The show is mostly just them joking with each other and being there for each other through everything – health problems, family drama, and trying to figure out what’s next. It really shows how important it is to have someone by your side, and to find the humor in life, even when things get tough. Their performances are just brilliant and really make you think about life and growing older.

‘The Gilded Age’ (2022–)

Christine Baranski plays Agnes van Rhijn, a woman who strongly upholds the strict social rules of New York’s wealthy elite in the late 1800s. Baranski perfectly embodies the character’s formal grace and biting humor, showing how she skillfully manages the complex and competitive world of high society. She portrays Agnes as a powerful and determined woman who fiercely guards her family’s position as the city transforms. The character is key to the show’s themes of class differences and how society changes over time.

‘1923’ (2022–2023)

Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren play Jacob and Cara Dutton, who run the Yellowstone ranch during the difficult times of the Great Depression and Prohibition. Ford portrays Jacob as a strong, but worn-down leader, willing to do whatever it takes to safeguard his family and property. Mirren shines as Cara, a resourceful and capable woman who expertly manages the ranch. Together, they offer a fascinating glimpse into the challenges of early 20th-century frontier life and the beginnings of the Dutton family’s story.

‘The Old Man’ (2022–)

This thrilling series stars Jeff Bridges as a former CIA agent hiding from the world, who is unexpectedly forced to flee. Bridges did many of his own stunts, adding to the realism of his complex character. John Lithgow plays the FBI official hunting him, and their shared past creates a compelling and tense rivalry. The show delves into the long-term effects of choices made in the past and highlights the lasting abilities of those trained to operate in secret.

‘Tulsa King’ (2022–)

Sylvester Stallone plays Dwight Manfredi, nicknamed ‘The General,’ a former Mafia boss who’s released from prison after 25 years. He moves to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to start a new criminal operation, a world away from his old life in New York City. Stallone brings his signature toughness and charisma to the role, blending moments of comedy with the potential for intense action. This is his first starring role in a scripted TV series, proving he still has what it takes as an action star.

‘Shrinking’ (2023–)

Harrison Ford steps into a less serious role as Dr. Paul Rhoades, an experienced therapist who’s also coping with Parkinson’s disease and guiding newer therapists. He plays the character with a dry wit and a bit of a grumpy attitude, creating humorous contrast with more expressive characters. Despite the comedy, Ford brings a sense of understanding and honesty to the role, showing the difficulties of dealing with a declining physical condition. His work on the series is notable as a prime example of a well-known movie star thriving in television.

‘The White Lotus’ (2021–)

Jennifer Coolidge gave a standout performance as Tanya McQuoid, a rich but troubled woman looking for peace at fancy resorts. This role won her two Emmy Awards and helped reignite her career, proving she can excel at both hilarious and heartbreaking scenes. In the show’s second season, F. Murray Abraham joined the cast as Bert Di Grasso, a grandfather traveling with his son and grandson in Sicily. His performance beautifully depicted the challenges of getting older and how traditional ideas of masculinity can affect families across generations.

‘Yellowstone’ (2018–)

Kevin Costner plays John Dutton, the head of the biggest ranch in the U.S. He’s a man fiercely dedicated to his family’s legacy and will go to great lengths – often making questionable choices – to defend his land from those who want to develop it or oppose him politically. Costner delivers a powerful, understated performance, bringing a strong and captivating presence to every scene. The show’s popularity is largely thanks to his portrayal of a classic cattle rancher struggling to preserve his way of life in a changing world.

‘Ray Donovan’ (2013–2020)

Jon Voight plays Mickey Donovan, the father of the main character, a man who is both charming and controlling. After spending many years in prison, Mickey suddenly reappears, and Voight’s portrayal of this flawed and often dangerous man is surprisingly endearing, earning him a Golden Globe. The complex relationship between Mickey and his sons drives much of the show’s drama. Voight delivers an energetic and unpredictable performance, making this role one of the most memorable of his career.

‘Inside Look: Feud – Bette and Joan’ (2017)

The series ‘Feud’ focuses on the famously difficult relationship between Joan Crawford and Bette Davis while they filmed ‘What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?’. Jessica Lange and Susan Sarandon brilliantly portray the two actresses, showcasing their fierce competition and the challenges they faced as Hollywood prioritized youth. The show delves into the pressures and insecurities of being a woman in the film industry, and particularly how older actresses struggled to stay relevant and maintain creative control.

‘The Good Fight’ (2017–2022)

Christine Baranski returns as Diane Lockhart, a lawyer dealing with the challenges of a deeply divided America. The series showcases Baranski’s character’s intelligence and strength as she overcomes professional difficulties and societal changes. Her performance is marked by grace and a determined fight for what’s right, even when things feel uncertain. The show is known for its clever scripts and for giving Baranski a leading role that grew and changed over its six seasons.

‘Poker Face’ (2023–)

Judith Light gives a standout performance as Irene Smothers, a seemingly sweet elderly resident of a retirement home who is hiding a troubling past. She expertly portrays both a warm, grandmotherly figure and a ruthlessly practical woman determined to keep her secrets safe. Light’s Emmy-winning guest appearance highlights the show’s strength in attracting talented actors and its success in bringing classic, character-focused mysteries to a new generation.

‘Transparent’ (2014–2019)

Jeffrey Tambor plays Maura Pfefferman, a former professor who comes out as transgender to her grown-up children. The show follows Maura’s transition and how it affects her family and their relationships with each other. Tambor’s portrayal of Maura was highly praised for being both delicate and honest, and he won several awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe. The role allowed a well-respected actor to bring an important and current story to a wide audience.

‘Ripley’ (2024)

John Malkovich delivers a chilling performance as Reeves Minot, a veteran criminal who takes a keen interest in the up-and-coming Tom Ripley. He plays the role with a subtle, dangerous energy, acting as a mentor figure. Malkovich’s established reputation for playing menacing characters adds depth to the series, especially when contrasted with the younger actors. He uses his distinctive style to create a character who feels powerful and mysterious in the world of crime.

‘The Morning Show’ (2019–)

Holland Taylor plays Cybil Richards, a powerful and often inflexible network executive. Her portrayal explores the difficulties faced by a woman in a leadership position as the media world evolves and internal conflicts arise. Taylor delivers a smart and commanding performance, frequently contrasting with the show’s younger characters. Through Cybil, the series reveals the clashes between different generations within big companies.

‘The Bear’ (2022–)

Jamie Lee Curtis gives a powerful and moving performance as Donna Berzatto, the mother in a central family on the show. In the episode ‘Fishes,’ she brilliantly portrays how her character’s alcoholism ruins a holiday dinner and deeply affects her children. Critics loved Curtis’s work, and she won an Emmy for showing a woman who is both caring and unpredictable. Her performance greatly enriched the show’s themes of inherited trauma and complex family relationships.

‘Star Trek: Picard’ (2020–2023)

Patrick Stewart reprises his famous role as Jean-Luc Picard, now an older captain confronting new dangers in space. The show delves into Picard’s life and how he deals with the challenges of getting older, both physically and emotionally. Stewart delivers a nuanced and thoughtful performance, showing a more vulnerable side of the character than fans have seen before. The last season brought back familiar faces from the show’s past, offering a heartwarming and satisfying end to Picard’s story.

‘Palm Royale’ (2024–)

This funny series, set in Palm Beach in 1969, stars Carol Burnett and Bruce Dern. Burnett plays Norma Dellacorte, a wealthy socialite who’s in a coma – and everyone wants her money and position. Though she starts out unable to move or speak, Burnett’s character eventually becomes a key part of the comedy. Dern plays her husband, and together they uncover the strange and hidden lives of the rich and famous during a changing time.

‘Last Tango in Halifax’ (2012–2020)

Derek Jacobi and Anne Reid shine as Alan and Celia, two people in their eighties who find love again after being widowed and apart for sixty years. The series beautifully portrays their blossoming romance and the challenges of combining their families. Jacobi and Reid deliver heartfelt and believable performances, demonstrating that powerful stories can come from the experiences of older adults. The show received widespread praise in both the UK and the US for its realistic, funny, and touching look at aging and finding love later in life.

Please share which of these veteran performances resonated with you the most in the comments.

2026-01-22 18:48