By Julie E 
Photo Credit ( Freepik )
When Slate’s “80 Over 80” article debuted more than ten years ago, it had two main objectives: to show how important it is for octWhen Slate’s “80 Over 80” article debuted more than ten years ago, it had two main objectives: to show how important it is for octogenarians and older to continue to make a substantial contribution to society and to question America’s obsession with early career achievements. This year, we’ve brought back this feature to emphasize how important the elder age is now more than ever in politics, Hollywood, society, and other fields. These are some of the most prominent Americans over 80, ranging from our nation’s oldest-ever president, Joe Biden, who will be 80 midway through his term, to other strongmen in a variety of industries.
- Jane Fonda, eighty-three
Actress and activist with an Academy Award Since the 1970s, Jane Fonda has been a powerful presence. She continues to be a strong activist and is regularly participating in climate change demonstrations and activism despite receiving backlash and controversy. In addition to embracing social media to share her message and experiences with a younger generation, Fonda is still a shining star in the acting world, most notably from Grace & Frankie. - Buchanan Pat, eighty-two
Political analyst The legacy of Pat Buchanan is nuanced and controversial. Renowned for his divisive opinions, Buchanan’s language has become more and more prevalent in mainstream politics, mirroring the growth of nationalist and populist feelings in American politics. His extensive media and political career has had a profound impact on the political and cultural environment. - Nelson, Russell Marion, aged 96
Russell Nelson, the seventeenth president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is a powerful figurehead with 16 million followers worldwide. Although the church has undergone some progressive adjustments throughout his reign, he is still a conservative figure. His function as a leader and prophet exemplifies a special synthesis of religious ideology that is always changing.
Willie Nelson, aged 87
Willie Nelson, a legend in the field of country music, is still active and significant. Nelson keeps up her campaigning, songwriting, and touring despite health difficulties. His continuous support of issues like farming and the legalization of cannabis, as well as his 2018 album Last Man Standing, demonstrate his lasting influence and significance.
- 89th EGOT winner Rita Moreno In Hollywood, Rita Moreno has blazed a path, breaking down boundaries for Latina performers. Her frank criticisms of the way Latino actors are treated in the industry have spurred crucial discussions about diversity and representation. Moreno’s reappearance on screen in the reimagining of West Side Story solidifies her place as a lasting and significant cultural icon.
- Helen Prejean, a nun, aged 81
Sister Helen Prejean, well-known for her campaign against the death sentence, has been a resolute supporter of the repeal of the death penalty. Particularly as the United States struggles with criminal justice reform, her efforts to draw attention to the risks and moral dilemmas associated with the death penalty are still vital. Despite structural obstacles, Prejean keeps fighting for justice and human decency.
Only a small portion of the extraordinary people over 80 who still have an impact on American culture and society are represented on this list. Their contributions are multidisciplinary and demonstrate the range of ways that experience and age may benefit society.The over-80 crowd has never had greater impact in Hollywood, politics, or general culture, which is why we brought back this feature this year. The oldest president in American history was recently elected. Before his term is halfway over, Joe Biden, who defeated two opponents in their seventies in the primary and general election, will turn eighty. Along with eleven other members of the House and seven members of the Senate, the Speaker of the House turned 80 this year. In every way, old money still has a disproportionate impact on American politics. However, the most influential eighty-year-olds of today are leaving their imprint in a variety of industries, including business, academics, sports, and the arts.
We evaluated their effect generally in order to compile our list of 80 noteworthy individuals, which includes those who are ninety years of age and older. While long-term influence was also taken into account, we focused particularly on noteworthy accomplishments made after the year 1980 and their applicability today. (Age calculations are based on December 31, 2020.) With a few exception for long-term citizens, we restricted our attention to Americans alone. Students from the Parsons School of Design at the New School contributed their illustrations. It’s crucial to remember that historical barriers—some of which are still being addressed—have resulted in the predominance of white men on this list. Not all “influence” is good, and some of the people on the list have complicated pasts. Some work on records for sports teams, music, movies, and even law.
Here is a list of the top 20 significant individuals above the age of 80:
The best immunologist in America, Dr. Anthony Fauci, 80
Fauci’s leadership amid the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated his proficiency and commitment. His unwavering work ethic and position as a reliable public health expert highlight his enormous impact at this pivotal moment.
Actor and activist Jane Fonda, 83
Since 1970, the fitness icon and Academy Award winner has been a fierce activist. As committed as ever, Fonda returns to acting in her late 60s, costarring in Grace & Frankie and participating in climate change demonstrations. Her unwavering dedication is shown by a widely shared film from the late 1970s in which she said, “What am I here for, if not to be used by the good people, for good things?”
82-year-old political commentator Pat Buchanan
Although Buchanan was originally viewed as an unsuccessful presidential candidate and a divisive commentator, several political forces now embrace his once-marginal viewpoints. His formerly extreme views on immigration and culture have become more and more prevalent in today’s politics.
The 96-year-old president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Russell Marion Nelson
Nelson’s leadership has brought about some progressive changes in his church, including the repeal of anti-gay legislation. He is still a strong conservative, though, and views his choices as heavenly insights that have a huge impact on the world.
Country singer and activist Willie Nelson, 87
The renowned vocalist and co-founder of Farm Aid is still touring and performing frequently. Nelson continues to be active in the music and advocacy despite health difficulties; he releases a new record every year and has a hemp-based product line. He remains relevant with his incisive songs and philosophical observations.
Rita Moreno, an actress, singer, and EGOT winner who is 89 years old Despite Hollywood’s restrictions on Latina roles, Moreno has persevered and is still a significant cultural icon. Her influence is still evident in television and movies, even with her comeback to the fore in the West Side Story remake.
Sister Helen Prejean, 81, an abolitionist of the death penalty
Prejean has devoted his life to opposing the death penalty ever since the 1995 movie Dead Man Walking came out. During the COVID-19 outbreak, she fought for jail reform and spoke out against the death penalty in favor of everyone’s dignity.
Christian media personality and televangelist Pat Robertson, 90 Mogul Robertson’s media empire and evangelical influence have been instrumental in forming the Christian right in America. His audacious attempts to bring conservative Christians together have had a long-lasting effect on American politics.
Actor and director Clint Eastwood, 90 years old
From well-known parts to acclaimed directing endeavors, Eastwood is still a powerful force in Hollywood. His impact as a conservative director and box office hit maker is still great as he gets older.
U.S. Senate President Pro Tempore Chuck Grassley, 87
Grassley’s significant positions on the Finance and Judiciary Committees have defined his lengthy Senate career. He is still well-known in American politics despite his busy schedule and unique social media voice.
Dolores Huerta, 90-year-old activist and co-founder of the United Farm Workers, whose advocacy for the rights of farmworkers remains a guiding light for development. Her enduring influence is demonstrated by her continued work and leadership in movements like the Women’s March on Washington.
The 93-year-old musician, actor, and activist Harry Belafonte
Belafonte is still a prominent figure in culture despite the start of his illustrious career in the 1950s. His reputation has been defined by his activism, especially in the areas of civil rights and criticism of American foreign policy. He most recently had an appearance in BlacKkKlansman.
George Soros, 90-year-old Progressive and Philanthropist
Conspiracy theories abound, but Soros’s political contributions and charitable endeavors have had a significant impact on American politics. His efforts are still supporting progressive causes across the globe.
Dionne Warwick, 80 – Singer Warwick’s extensive career and recent social media activity demonstrate her exceptional capacity to engage with a range of age groups. From her latest charity endeavors to her chart-topping tunes, Warwick is still a prominent and dynamic presence.
Charles Koch, 85-The industrialist Koch leaves a complicated legacy that is revealed in his thoughts on environmental and political issues. The enduring significance of his contributions is highlighted by his broad influence on American politics and environmental discussions.
John Williams, 88 – With his renowned soundtracks for films like Jurassic Park and Star Wars, composer Williams has made an incomparable contribution to cinema music. His unprecedented seven decades of Oscar nominations demonstrate his enduring impact on the film industry.
Stephen Breyer, 82, a Justice of the Supreme Court
Breyer approaches the Constitution pragmatically, in contrast to his contemporaries’ more dogmatic ideologies. His focus on an adaptable, people-centered government demonstrates his significant contribution to American jurisprudence.
The 89-year-old media billionaire Rupert Murdoch
Murdoch’s continued impact is seen in his control over powerful media organizations and his contribution to the development of right-wing media narratives. The news landscapes in America and throughout the world are still impacted by his stewardship of News Corp and Fox Corporation.
Maxine Waters, 82 – She is a well-known personality in Congress thanks to her candid remarks and capable leadership. Well-known for her advocacy and audacious remarks, she has been significant in the political criticism and financial regulating space.
The 80-year-old Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi
Pelosi’s extensive stint as Speaker and her astute management of House Democratic leadership have solidified her status as a significant political figure. Her ability to maneuver through intricate political environments is still a great advantage.