1. Jonathan the Tortoise (c.1832)
Reaching 90 is remarkable in any species, yet some creatures and people carry on with strength and charm far beyond that number. From tortoises who’ve outlived generations to entertainers who continue to inspire, these living legends remind us of the endurance found in nature and humanity alike.
Jonathan isn’t just old, he’s a living piece of history. At about 192 years old, this giant tortoise on the island of Saint Helena was already alive when Abraham Lincoln was a teenager and Queen Victoria sat on the throne. He has seen the rise of electricity, the invention of airplanes, and the digital revolution, yet his daily routine remains timeless: grazing on leaves, basking in the sun, and enjoying the quiet life. Despite his blindness and loss of smell, Jonathan still recognizes his caretakers and is a celebrated symbol of resilience. Visitors from around the world travel to meet him, making Jonathan both an ecological marvel and a beloved ambassador of endurance.
2. Henry the Tuatara (c.1890s)
In New Zealand, Henry the tuatara proves that age is no barrier to fatherhood. Thought to be over 130 years old, Henry is part of a reptile species so ancient it coexisted with dinosaurs over 200 million years ago. For decades, Henry showed little interest in reproduction, but after surgery to remove a tumor in his 100s, he surprised keepers by successfully mating and producing offspring. This sparked renewed excitement in the conservation of his kind, as tuataras are rare and face habitat challenges. Henry’s story has become a symbol of second chances, showing how even at great age, these living fossils can still play a vital role in keeping their lineage alive.
3. Muja the Alligator (c.1935)
Belgrade Zoo in Serbia houses a remarkable survivor named Muja. Hatched in the mid-1930s, Muja has lived through bombings in World War II, political upheavals, and the changing landscape of modern Europe. At over 90 years old, he continues to astonish keepers with his endurance and calm presence. Alligators typically live 30 to 50 years in the wild, yet Muja has nearly doubled that in captivity. Though he lost a leg to infection years ago, he remains active and is one of the zoo’s most beloved attractions. His story is not only about long life but also about resilience, as Muja embodies the ability to adapt and persist despite challenges.
4. Diego the Galápagos Tortoise (c.1910)
Diego isn’t just famous for his age, he’s celebrated for saving his species. Born over a century ago, Diego was brought from the San Diego Zoo to the Galápagos Islands to help revive a dwindling tortoise population. His contribution was extraordinary: Diego fathered hundreds of offspring, helping bring the species back from the edge of extinction. Today, at more than 110 years old, he enjoys a quieter retirement, but his legacy lives on through countless descendants roaming the islands. Diego is a reminder that conservation can have lasting results, and that sometimes one determined individual can make an enormous difference for the survival of a species.
5. Domino the Tortoise (c.1930s)
At the Turtle Back Zoo in New Jersey, Domino the tortoise has charmed visitors for decades. Believed to be over 90 years old, Domino is one of the zoo’s oldest residents and a favorite among families who return to see him year after year. Giant tortoises are known for their impressive lifespans, but Domino stands out not just for his age but for his calm, gentle presence. Children often gather around his enclosure, fascinated by his slow movements and massive size, while keepers highlight his role as an ambassador for endangered species. Domino shows how even in a suburban zoo setting, an animal can inspire awe and respect for the natural world’s remarkable longevity.
8 Celebrities Who’ve Passed the 90-Year Mark (as of 2025)
While animals amaze us with their longevity, some familiar faces in entertainment and culture have also crossed the 90-year milestone. These stars continue to inspire, perform, or influence the world long after most would have retired.
6. Mel Brooks (99)
Mel Brooks has spent nearly a century making people laugh, and he’s still going strong at 99. The mastermind behind timeless comedies like Young Frankenstein, Blazing Saddles, and The Producers, Brooks redefined humor with his sharp wit and fearless parodies. Even as he nears 100, he continues to make appearances, lend his voice to projects, and reflect on a career that has influenced generations of comedians. His humor has always been both clever and accessible, making his work beloved by audiences of all ages. Brooks’ long life is as much about joy as it is about achievement, he remains a reminder that laughter truly helps keep the spirit young.
7. Van Dyke (99)
At 99, Van Dyke is living proof that charm and energy can last a lifetime. Known for his roles in classics like Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and The Dick Van Dyke Show, he’s one of the most beloved performers in Hollywood history. What makes him remarkable is not just his age but his vitality, he still sings, dances, and delights fans with his upbeat outlook. In recent years, he’s made surprise performances and even showcased his dancing skills on television, inspiring younger generations. Van Dyke embodies joy, resilience, and creativity, making him a cultural treasure whose smile still lights up the screen nearly seven decades after his debut.
8. Carol Burnett (92)
Carol Burnett remains one of the brightest names in comedy, even in her 90s. Best known for The Carol Burnett Show, which ran for 11 seasons and redefined sketch comedy, she paved the way for women in entertainment with her wit, versatility, and warmth. At 92, Burnett still makes guest appearances and cameos, often reminding audiences of the brilliance that made her an icon. Beyond her television success, she’s been celebrated with countless awards and continues to influence comedians who admire her groundbreaking work. Burnett’s enduring presence highlights how humor can bridge generations, and her legacy continues to inspire laughter and admiration worldwide.
9. Willie Nelson (92)
Few musicians embody endurance like Willie Nelson. At 92, he’s still performing, touring, and recording music with the same spirit that made him a country music legend. With classics like On the Road Again and Always on My Mind, Nelson has built a career that spans over six decades. His signature braids, soulful voice, and guitar “Trigger” are instantly recognizable, making him an enduring figure in American culture. Even now, he headlines concerts and festivals, showing younger artists what it means to stay passionate about music for a lifetime. Nelson proves that creativity doesn’t fade with age, if anything, it deepens and matures, just like his unmistakable sound.
10. Clint Eastwood (95)
Clint Eastwood, at 95, continues to be a towering presence in Hollywood. Known for his iconic roles in Westerns like The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and his later career as an acclaimed director, Eastwood has spent more than seven decades shaping the film industry. Even into his 90s, he has directed major films, proving that his passion for storytelling is as strong as ever. His rugged persona, both on-screen and behind the camera, has made him a cultural icon. Eastwood’s longevity in such a demanding field highlights not only his resilience but also his remarkable ability to adapt and stay relevant across generations of moviegoers.
11. Yoko Ono (92)
At 92, Yoko Ono remains a figure of quiet influence in the worlds of art and activism. Known as an avant-garde artist long before her marriage to John Lennon, she has spent her life creating boundary-pushing works and advocating for peace. Ono’s conceptual art, from performance pieces to installations, has inspired and challenged audiences worldwide. In her later years, she has kept a lower profile, but her legacy of blending creativity with activism endures. Her influence continues to be felt in music, contemporary art, and social movements, making her a lasting symbol of how innovation and passion can transcend time.
12. Sally Jessy Raphael (90)
Sally Jessy Raphael, with her trademark red glasses, was a daytime television staple for years. Now 90, she has stepped away from the spotlight but remains fondly remembered as one of the pioneers of talk shows in the 1980s and 1990s. Her program tackled personal stories, social issues, and cultural trends, giving everyday people a platform long before reality TV took hold. In recent years, Raphael has embraced social media, sharing reflections and connecting with fans who still admire her warmth and candor. Her ability to stay connected with audiences even after her show ended speaks to the genuine bond she built during her groundbreaking career.
13. Rupert Murdoch (94)
Rupert Murdoch has spent his life shaping the global media landscape, and at 94, he continues to hold influence. As the founder of News Corporation and longtime leader of outlets like Fox News, The Wall Street Journal, and The Times, Murdoch has been one of the most powerful figures in journalism and broadcasting. Over decades, he built a media empire that has spanned continents and influenced politics, culture, and entertainment. Even in his later years, Murdoch remains active in business decisions, showing a drive and determination that has defined his career.
These stories remind us that age is not a limit but a milestone. Animals and humans alike have shown that with resilience, care, and a little bit of luck, life can be full and meaningful well beyond 90.
This story 5 Animals Over 90 Still Alive Today, And 8 Celebrities Who’ve Passed the Same Milestone was first published on Daily FETCH
