1. Jethro (Max Baer Jr.) Clampett – Beverly Hillbillies
These are the last surviving stars from some of our beloved TV shows, and Max Baer Jr. remains one of the most recognizable. As Jethro, he brought goofy charm and wide eyed innocence to every episode. Even though he left acting behind, reruns keep his character alive for generations of fans. Seeing him still with us reminds people how powerful these classic shows remain, because the humor still feels warm, simple, and familiar. His presence today acts like a bridge to the past, carrying laughter, nostalgia, and the comforting spirit of The Beverly Hillbillies everywhere it goes for fans worldwide
2. Carol Burnett & Vicki Lawrence -The Carol Burnett Show
Carol Burnett is still alive, and she remains one of television’s most beloved figures. Her variety show invited viewers to relax, laugh, and feel welcome at the end of long days. She never depended on cruelty for humor. Instead, she created playful sketches filled with kindness and imagination. Even now, when she appears for tributes or interviews, audiences feel the same affection they felt decades ago. Carol stands as a living connection to an era when families gathered around the TV together and shared laughter that became memories they carried with them for life and still love her today dearly
3. Joyce DeWitt -Three’s Company
Joyce DeWitt brought balance and heart to Three’s Company as Janet Wood. While the show thrived on misunderstandings and physical comedy, DeWitt’s grounded performance kept everything believable. After the deaths of John Ritter and Suzanne Somers, DeWitt remains the only surviving member of the original trio. She has largely stepped away from the spotlight but occasionally appears for interviews and reunions honoring the show’s legacy. DeWitt has spoken fondly of the cast’s chemistry, noting that their differences made the comedy work. Her continued presence reminds fans of a sitcom era built on timing, charm, and simple humor.
4. Michael McKean -Laverne & Shirley
Michael McKean’s portrayal of Lenny turned a supporting role into a cultural touchstone. Alongside David Lander’s Squiggy, McKean helped create one of sitcom history’s most memorable comedic duos. While Penny Marshall, Cindy Williams, and Lander have passed, McKean remains very active in entertainment. His career has spanned comedy, drama, music, and writing, with notable roles well beyond Laverne & Shirley. Despite his range, many fans still remember his enthusiastic entrances and offbeat charm. McKean has acknowledged that the show’s silliness was its strength, giving audiences joy without pretension.
5. Pam Dawber -Mork & Mindy
Pam Dawber played the emotional anchor in Mork & Mindy, balancing Robin Williams’ unpredictable energy with warmth and sincerity. Her character, Mindy, gave viewers a way into the show’s fantastical humor. Following Williams’ death, Dawber is the last surviving main cast member. She stepped away from acting to focus on family life but has made occasional appearances in recent years. Dawber has often spoken about Williams’ generosity and brilliance, noting that his talent was unmatched. Her quiet presence today serves as a reminder that the show’s success came not just from comedy, but from genuine emotional connection.
6. Bernie Kopell -The Love Boat
Bernie Kopell portrayed Dr. Adam Bricker, the ship’s resident physician, across nearly the entire run of The Love Boat. Importantly, he is not the only surviving cast member. Several other main cast actors, including Fred Grandy and Ted Lange, are also still alive. Kopell, now in his nineties, remains active in fan conventions and interviews. His character added humor and flirtation to the show’s lighthearted storytelling. Kopell has frequently joked that working on the series felt like being on vacation. His continued presence reflects the enduring appeal of a show built on romance, escapism, and familiar faces.
7. Barbara Eden -I Dream of Jeannie
Barbara Eden’s portrayal of Jeannie made her one of television’s most recognizable icons. While the series ended long ago, reruns kept Eden in living rooms for generations. After Larry Hagman’s passing, Eden remains the most prominent surviving star of the show. She continues to appear at events, write, and speak warmly about her career. Eden has often said she feels grateful to have been part of a show that brought joy to so many people. Her elegance and optimism still mirror the magic that made Jeannie feel timeless, whimsical, and endlessly rewatchable.
8. Tina Louise -Gilligan’s Island
Tina Louise is the last surviving member of the Gilligan’s Island cast. Her portrayal of Ginger Grant added glamour and self-awareness to the show’s comedic dynamic. Although she distanced herself from the role for many years, Louise has acknowledged its lasting impact. She pursued a varied career in film, television, and writing, choosing not to be defined by one character. Today, she represents the final living link to a show that turned a simple premise into television history. Her continued life reminds fans how deeply those short episodes embedded themselves into popular culture.
9. Todd Bridges -Diff’rent Strokes
Diff’rent Strokes was more than a sitcom. It became a cultural moment, bringing laughter while gently nudging social conversations. Todd Bridges, who played Willis, is the last main cast member still living. Gary Coleman, Dana Plato, and Conrad Bain have all passed, each leaving a different kind of mark. Bridges has spoken openly about his struggles and resilience, becoming a quiet symbol of survival. In interviews, he’s said, “I went through it all, but I’m still here.” And that, for many fans, is a reminder that behind the jokes was a real kid, now a grown man standing tall.
10. BernNadette Stanis & Ralph Carter -Good Times
Good Times broke ground by portraying a working-class Black family with honesty and humor. BernNadette Stanis and Ralph Carter, who played Thelma and Michael Evans, are both still alive. Contrary to some claims, Jimmy Walker is also still living, meaning they are not the only surviving cast members. Stanis remains active in writing and community outreach, while Carter has lived more privately since leaving acting. Both have spoken fondly of the show’s family atmosphere and cultural importance. Their continued presence helps preserve the legacy of a sitcom that addressed real issues without losing its heart.
11. Wesley Eure and Kathy Coleman -Land of the Lost
Land of the Lost captured young imaginations with dinosaurs, time travel, and unforgettable creatures. Wesley Eure and Kathy Coleman, who played Will and Holly, remain active in fan communities and conventions. Their continued friendship and willingness to engage with fans have kept the show alive in pop culture. Eure has spoken about how unexpected the show’s longevity has been, while Coleman often shares behind-the-scenes stories. Together, they represent a generation of television that trusted imagination over polish, reminding viewers that adventure didn’t need realism to feel real.
12. Lou Wagner’s -CHiPs
Lou Wagner played Harlan, the motorcycle mechanic on CHiPs. However, he is not the only surviving cast member. Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox, who portrayed the show’s leads, are both still alive. Wagner appeared in many episodes and provided a calm, steady presence behind the scenes of the action. He later transitioned into voice work and other roles. While not the final link to CHiPs, Wagner’s contribution remains meaningful, representing the quieter, supportive characters that helped balance the show’s high-energy style.
13. Jimmy Walker – Good Times
Jimmy Walker became a cultural phenomenon as J.J. Evans, turning the phrase “Dyn-o-mite!” into a national catchphrase. While his character often stole scenes, Walker has long emphasized that Good Times was an ensemble show rooted in family and resilience. Now in his seventies, Walker is still alive and remains active through stand-up comedy appearances, radio work, and interviews. He has spoken openly about how sudden fame shaped his life, sometimes complicating relationships with castmates. Despite that, Walker’s role helped define 1970s television and gave audiences a character who used humor to survive hardship. His continued presence keeps one of sitcom history’s loudest laughs very much alive.
14. Erik Estrada – CHiPs
Erik Estrada became a household name as Officer Frank “Ponch” Poncherello on CHiPs. His charm, smile, and motorcycle patrols made him one of television’s most recognizable faces of the late 1970s. Estrada is still alive and remains a public figure, appearing at fan conventions and participating in safety advocacy and Spanish-language programming. Beyond CHiPs, he has worked steadily in film and television, often embracing roles that reflect his cultural heritage. Estrada has said the show’s appeal came from its positivity and partnership-driven storytelling. His ongoing visibility corrects frequent misconceptions and confirms that one of TV’s most iconic officers is still very much with us.
15. Larry Wilcox – CHiPs
Larry Wilcox portrayed Officer Jon Baker, the calm and disciplined counterbalance to Ponch’s energy on CHiPs. Wilcox is still alive and living a quieter life outside Hollywood, having stepped away from acting decades ago. While he distanced himself from the entertainment industry, his role remains essential to the show’s success. Wilcox brought seriousness and structure to a series built on action and charm, giving CHiPs its emotional grounding. He has occasionally spoken about the pressures of fame and his decision to pursue a more private life. His continued presence reminds fans that stepping away does not erase a lasting television legacy.
16. Fred Grandy – The Love Boat
Fred Grandy played Gopher Smith, the friendly and hopeful purser on The Love Boat. Contrary to many incorrect claims, Grandy is still alive and remains one of the most accomplished cast members beyond the show. After leaving acting, he transitioned into politics, serving multiple terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. Grandy has often reflected on how The Love Boat taught him professionalism and public connection, skills he later used in public service. His character embodied optimism and ambition, resonating with viewers who dreamed alongside him. Grandy’s continued life and varied career stand as proof that television fame can be a beginning, not an endpoint.
17. Ted Lange – The Love Boat
Ted Lange portrayed Isaac Washington, the calm and confident bartender aboard The Love Boat. Lange is still alive and continues to work in entertainment, directing theater productions and mentoring young actors. His character became a symbol of warmth and quiet wisdom, often offering advice as smoothly as he served drinks. Lange has spoken about how meaningful it was to play a respected Black professional on prime-time television during that era. His contributions went beyond acting, helping shape representation on screen. Lange’s ongoing career and thoughtful reflections preserve the deeper cultural impact of a show often remembered only for its romance and guest stars.
18. Jill Whelan – The Love Boat
Jill Whelan joined The Love Boat as Vicki Stubing, the captain’s daughter, becoming one of the show’s most recognizable younger faces. She is still alive and remains connected to the series through fan events and cruise-themed appearances. Whelan has spoken candidly about growing up on television and navigating life after early fame. Her character added a family element to the show, making the ship feel like more than a floating romance set. Today, Whelan embraces the nostalgia with gratitude, often sharing stories from behind the scenes. Her continued presence reminds fans that The Love Boat was as much about connection as it was about love.
19. Leslie Easterbrook – Laverne & Shirley
Leslie Easterbrook played Rhonda Lee, the confident and glamorous neighbor on Laverne & Shirley. She is still alive and has enjoyed a long career spanning television, film, and music. Easterbrook later became widely known for her role in the Police Academy film series, proving her versatility beyond sitcom comedy. She has spoken fondly about her time on Laverne & Shirley, crediting the show for giving her creative freedom and visibility. Her character brought humor and boldness, contrasting perfectly with the show’s central friendship. Easterbrook’s continued life and work highlight how supporting roles can leave lasting impressions.
20. Sally Struthers – All in the Family
Sally Struthers portrayed Gloria Bunker, one of television’s most relatable daughters, on All in the Family. She is still alive and remains active in theater and voice work. Struthers brought emotional depth to a show known for controversy, grounding its sharp humor in family reality. Over the years, she has spoken about the show’s courage in addressing difficult topics while still maintaining heart. Beyond acting, she became widely recognized for humanitarian advocacy, further expanding her public legacy. Struthers’ continued presence links modern audiences to a groundbreaking sitcom that changed how television addressed social issues.
22. Danielle Brisebois – All in the Family
Danielle Brisebois joined All in the Family later as Stephanie Mills, bringing warmth and vulnerability to the series’ final years. She is still alive and successfully transitioned from acting into music, becoming a respected songwriter and performer. Brisebois has written and performed songs for major artists, earning acclaim far beyond her childhood television fame. She has reflected on how the show shaped her understanding of storytelling and emotion. Her career path illustrates how early television roles can open doors in unexpected directions. Brisebois remains a quiet but meaningful part of All in the Family’s enduring legacy.
21. Robert Pine – CHiPs
Robert Pine portrayed Sergeant Joseph Getraer, the steady commanding officer on CHiPs. He is still alive and continues to be remembered for his authoritative yet compassionate presence on the show. Pine enjoyed a long acting career across television and film, often appearing in guest roles that emphasized leadership and reliability. His performance on CHiPs helped anchor the series, giving structure to its action-driven storytelling. Pine has largely stepped back from acting but remains a respected figure among classic TV fans. His survival further corrects widespread misinformation and reinforces the importance of accurate retrospectives.
22. Van Dyke – The Carol Burnett Show
Van Dyke is still alive and continues to amaze fans well into his late nineties. While best known for The Dick Van Dyke Show and Mary Poppins, he was also a regular cast member on The Carol Burnett Show for one season. His physical comedy, warmth, and musical talent fit perfectly into the show’s sketch format. Van Dyke remains active, making public appearances and sharing reflections on aging with humor and optimism. His survival is often overlooked in listicles, leading to frequent corrections from readers. As one of television’s true pioneers, his continued presence represents an extraordinary bridge between early TV and modern entertainment.
23. Joyce Bulifant – The Mary Tyler Moore Show
Joyce Bulifant appeared frequently on The Mary Tyler Moore Show as Marie Slaughter, Murray’s cheerful and endlessly patient wife. She is still alive and remains fondly remembered for her gentle comedic style. Though not always in the spotlight, Bulifant was part of a supporting cast that helped redefine sitcom realism in the 1970s. She later appeared in numerous television roles and game shows, becoming a familiar face to viewers of the era. Bulifant has spoken about how supportive and collaborative the Mary Tyler Moore set was, contributing to a show that balanced humor with authenticity. Her survival quietly preserves a key piece of sitcom history.
24. Hal Linden – Barney Miller
Hal Linden starred as Captain Barney Miller, anchoring one of television’s smartest workplace comedies. He is still alive and has remained active in theater, music, and television appearances. Linden’s calm authority and dry humor gave Barney Miller its unique tone, allowing comedy to emerge naturally from character rather than exaggeration. He has often reflected on how the show respected its audience by trusting them to understand subtle humor. Even decades later, the series remains relevant, frequently rediscovered by new viewers. Linden’s continued life stands as a reminder that thoughtful television can endure far beyond its original run.
25. Ron Howard – Happy Days
Ron Howard played Richie Cunningham, the emotional center of Happy Days, before transitioning into one of Hollywood’s most successful directing careers. He is very much alive and remains a major creative force in film and television. Howard’s evolution from child actor to respected director is often cited as one of the most successful career transitions in entertainment history. Despite his later achievements, fans still associate him with the warmth and sincerity of early Happy Days episodes. Howard has spoken fondly of the show’s family atmosphere and its lasting cultural impact. His continued success reflects television’s ability to launch enduring creative legacies.
26. Anson Williams – Happy Days
Anson Williams portrayed Potsie Weber, Richie Cunningham’s loyal best friend on Happy Days. He is still alive and has built a successful second career as a television director. Williams directed episodes of numerous popular series, proving his talents extended far beyond acting. He has spoken openly about navigating typecasting and finding fulfillment behind the camera. Potsie’s gentle humor and loyalty made him a relatable figure for viewers, balancing the show’s larger personalities. Williams’ ongoing career and life serve as an example of how sitcom actors can reinvent themselves while honoring the roles that made them famous.
27. Linda Kaye Henning – Petticoat Junction
Linda Kaye Henning played Betty Jo Bradley on Petticoat Junction and is still alive. As one of the younger cast members, she brought warmth and sincerity to the rural sitcom. Henning later stepped away from acting, choosing a quieter life away from Hollywood. Despite that, her work remains a key part of 1960s television nostalgia. Petticoat Junction continues to air in reruns, introducing new generations to its simple humor and charm. Henning has occasionally reflected on growing up on set and the close-knit atmosphere of the show. Her survival maintains a living link to a bygone era of television storytelling.
28. Jerry Mathers – Leave It to Beaver
Jerry Mathers became one of television’s most recognizable child actors as Theodore “Beaver” Cleaver. He is still alive and remains closely associated with the show’s wholesome image. Mathers has embraced his legacy, attending fan events and speaking openly about life after childhood fame. Leave It to Beaver remains a cultural touchstone, often referenced in discussions about family television. Mathers has noted that the show’s appeal lies in its honesty rather than perfection. His continued presence allows audiences to connect the fictional Beaver with the real person behind the character, reinforcing the show’s enduring emotional resonance.
29. Ken Berry – Mayberry R.F.D.
Ken Berry, often mentioned in discussions of Mayberry R.F.D., actually passed away in 2018. This entry serves as a clarification, as Berry is frequently mistaken as still living in reader comments. His work remains beloved, particularly for bringing warmth and humor to family-oriented television. Correcting such misconceptions is essential when revisiting classic TV history. Berry’s legacy continues through reruns and fond memories, even though he is no longer with us. This clarification reinforces the importance of accuracy when honoring television figures.
30. Marla Gibbs – The Jeffersons
Marla Gibbs played Florence Johnston, the sharp-tongued yet loyal maid on The Jeffersons. She is still alive and continues to act and make public appearances. Gibbs brought wit and intelligence to a role that could have been one-dimensional, helping redefine how supporting characters were portrayed. She has spoken proudly about being part of a show that broke barriers while delivering humor. Gibbs later starred in other successful series, proving her range and longevity. Her continued life represents the enduring strength of performers who helped shape socially meaningful television.
31. Burt Ward – Batman
Burt Ward portrayed Robin on the 1960s Batman television series and is still alive. His energetic performance became an iconic part of the show’s campy charm. After Batman, Ward remained connected to the character through fan events and voice work. He has also become known for animal advocacy, dedicating much of his later life to charitable causes. Ward has embraced the role’s legacy, understanding its lasting appeal across generations. His continued presence keeps alive one of television’s most colorful eras, when superheroes first became household entertainment.
Classic television lives on because people care enough to remember it accurately. The passionate comments, corrections, and shared memories from readers helped strengthen this list, turning it into something more than nostalgia.
