Morgan Freeman’s ‘secret’ to longevity as an 88-year-old actor
Famous 88-year-old actor Morgan Freeman still acts in films and uses his unique voice in the narration of films. His acting career spans six decades and he has no plans to retire. AARP.
Freeman told the nonprofit he plans to “continue the movement.” And he pairs that feeling with the advice he received from his dear friend and fellow actor Clint Eastwood.
“There’s a saying about old age: ‘Keep moving,’ and 95-year-old Clint Eastwood says, ‘Don’t let the old man in,'” Freeman told AARP earlier this month.
“The way to do that is to keep getting up in the morning, keep working out at the gym, keep taking your vitamins, keep taking your prescription medications, and keep moving. Keep moving. That’s the secret to it all.”
And Freeman does just that. This year he reprized his role as Thaddeus Bradley in the third film of the “Now You See Me” film series.
A common recommendation for centenarians and people over 80 is to stay active and never retire. These tips follow the rules of ikigai, a Japanese principle often linked to longevity and healthy living.
At my age you get the most action out of golf. It’s a great sport for older adults.
Much of what Freeman does in his free time aligns with his longevity strategy of keeping moving. Playing golf is his passion and he believes it is a great sport at his age.
“Remember, at my age you get the most action out of golf,” Freeman said. “Walking, stooping, stooping, swinging, cursing. It’s a great exercise for older adults.”
As Freeman approaches 90, his main concern is whether advancing age will affect his ability to play the sport he loves. “Am I still going to play golf? That’s the question,” he said.
Another important choice Freeman made throughout his acting career was to never let the accolades get to his head, even after winning an Oscar in 2005. This is the same advice he gives today to players who aspire to achieve the same thing.
“It didn’t change me one bit. I knew beforehand that I would eventually get one. It didn’t change me. I hope it didn’t change me,” Freeman said.
“Because the only change you can expect after you get the Oscar is maybe your price goes up a little bit and your job prospects go up a little bit. I guess that’s one or two things you can look forward to. Other than that, don’t let your ego get the best of you.”
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