At 93 years old, celebrated actress Ellen Burstyn, a recipient of Oscar, Tony, and Emmy accolades, is both surprised and profoundly thankful for her enduring presence in the film industry. She candidly shared her past fears of her career ending by her early forties, highlighting her current age and active work schedule as nothing short of miraculous. Her latest project, "Place to Be," debuted at the Venice Film Festival, drawing attention to her remarkable resilience and passion for acting.
Veteran Actress Ellen Burstyn's "Miraculous" Career Continues at 93 with "Place to Be" Premiere in Venice
On September 9, 2026, during the esteemed Venice Film Festival, legendary actress Ellen Burstyn, aged 93, captivated audiences and press as she reflected on her extraordinary, ongoing career. Burstyn, an iconic figure recognized for her performances in "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore," "Same Time, Next Year," and "Political Animals," openly confessed her disbelief at still being actively involved in acting. She recounted anticipating the end of her professional life by the time she reached 40, a stark contrast to her vibrant engagement in the industry today, which she describes as a "miracle."
The occasion was the premiere of her new film, "Place to Be," a unique drama featuring Burstyn alongside Taika Waititi. In the film, she portrays a determined elderly woman who embarks on an unexpected journey from New York to Chicago with an arrogant, divorced man to return a lost racing pigeon to its rightful owner. The cast also includes Pamela Anderson and Murray Bartlett as her concerned children, with cameo appearances by Edgar Ramirez and Lena Waithe. Director Kornél Mundruczó revealed he specifically tailored the character of Brooke for Burstyn, immersing himself in her extensive filmography during the writing process. He expressed deep satisfaction in crafting a "love story" that explores the platonic bond between Burstyn's and Waititi's characters.
Pigeons are central to the film's narrative, with Mundruczó hoping to shift public perception of these often-maligned birds. He noted their historical significance as messenger birds and their transformation into urban symbols, finding a "touching" quality in these creatures. Waititi humorously commented on the practical challenges of working with pigeons, citing their frequent droppings. Producer Jomon Thomas humorously disclosed that the production team even considered using diapers for the 30 pigeons involved in the movie, a notion ultimately dismissed due to the complexities of digital removal.
The festival also marked a significant period for Burstyn, as she attended with two films—"Place to Be" and Maggie Gyllenhaal's Marilyn Monroe-inspired short, "Flesh Impact." Furthermore, she was honored with the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement. During the moving award ceremony, Burstyn was visibly emotional, shedding tears as she received a standing ovation. She lightheartedly acknowledged the significance of the Golden Lion, noting its unique value even after having won an Oscar, Tony, and Emmy, underscoring the profound appreciation she felt for the honor.
Ellen Burstyn's continued brilliance in the film world is a powerful testament to her unwavering talent and deep love for her craft. Her journey, spanning decades and overcoming personal expectations, serves as a poignant reminder that age is merely a number when passion and dedication drive one's pursuits. Her ability to consistently deliver impactful performances, even into her nineties, not only enriches the cinematic landscape but also inspires countless individuals to pursue their dreams with enduring zeal. Her story is a beacon of resilience and a celebration of a truly extraordinary artistic life.
About the author
Stephen King
Prolific author of horror and suspense, who also writes extensively on the craft of writing and pop culture.
