At 95 years old, June Squibb is demonstrating that age is no barrier to success, appearing alongside Scarlett Johansson at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 8. Squibb is gaining attention not only for her impressive career longevity but also for her involvement in Johansson’s film Eleanor the Great, set to premiere on September 26, making the Scarlett Johansson TIFF Red Carpet event a significant moment for both actresses.
Returning to Theater After Years of Film Acclaim
Rather than stepping back from the spotlight, Squibb is reconnecting with her theatrical roots. This December, she will star as Marjorie in the Broadway play Marjorie Prime, marking a return to the stage after decades spent in film. Squibb emphasized the personal nature of this shift, stating,
“I had a long career in the theater before I ever started doing film,”
and added,
“I was in my 60s when I started film. So it’s like going back home in a way, you know. And it’s a great script I’m doing, and a short time period of time.”
Collaboration and Leadership on Johansson’s Directorial Debut
Squibb is currently enjoying her role in Johansson’s first venture as a director, where she praises the experience and leadership on set. Commenting on the project, she said,
“I had a lot of fun,”
continuing with,
“I love the actors I was working with, and Scarlett was so great. She was such a leader. She made everything so smooth and easy.”
Johansson reflected on the film’s emotional depth, which centers on Eleanor, a 90-year-old woman who moves to New York and befriends a 19-year-old student. Johansson shared,
“I have so many wonderful memories of being on set,”
and described the balance of heavy drama with humor:
“The film is very moving. There’s a lot of very deep, deep dramatic work that the actors are doing. And in between all of that, you have to laugh because otherwise you cry. So we were just like in hysterics all the time.”
June Squibb’s Career Continues to Flourish
Having embarked on her film career in her 60s, Squibb’s recent leading roles highlight her enduring passion for acting. Her work in the action comedy Thelma, where she plays a grandmother determined to reclaim money lost to a scam, marked her first starring role and is available to stream on Hulu. Reflecting on her time with the cast, Johansson expressed,
“Just being with my friends and making this movie, every day was wonderful.”
Squibb’s ongoing projects and stage return underscore her remarkable persistence and dedication to the performing arts well into her ninth decade.
