As we all continue to hunker down at home, watching Netflix and other streaming services has helped lighten our mood. Here are some binge-worthy shows that showcase the amazing talents of actors, actresses and cooking personalities in their sixties and better. They are proving that age is just a number and that you don’t have to retire — even at 98, like Betty White. You may be familiar with some of these shows, but if there are any you haven’t explored, grab that remote and a fuzzy blanket and warm your spirits by the screen this holiday season.
- “Grace and Frankie.” This barrier-breaking dramedy, which has opened up a new dialogue around aging, stars big-name talents Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Martin Sheen and Sam Waterson. Although COVID paused the show’s production, it will return for its 7th and final season, resuming filming in January 2021.
- “The Kominsky Method.” This comedy drama stars Michael Douglas as Sandy Kominsky, a former Hollywood A-lister turned acting coach, and Alan Arkin as Sandy’s agent and best friend, Norman Newlander. Produced by sitcom wiz Chuck Lorree, the series has won two Golden Globes along its two-season journey, as it humorously navigates sensitive issues such as dating, retirement and health woes. Fans will be happy to know that The Kominsky Method has been renewed for a third and final season (2020-2021).
- “The Great British Baking Show.” Imported from across the pond, this deliciously entertaining reality show poses nearly impossible baking challenges to 12 contestants who must cook in a countryside tent outfitted with kitchen equipment. The show’s tart attitude with a sweet center has millions of viewers waiting with bated breath to see if the complex creations will please the palates of the hard-to-impress judges, Prue Leith, 80, and Paul Hollywood, 54. The contestants come in all backgrounds, occupations and ages, from Martha Collision, a 17-year-old student, to 2014 season-winner Nancy Birtwhistle, grandmother of 8.
- “The Crown.” Now in Season 4, this critically acclaimed drama about the English royal family boasts a brilliant cast of actors and actresses of all ages. Two talents whose performances are particularly stellar: Marion Bailey, 69, who plays Queen Elizabeth, the matriarch of the royal family, and Charles Dance, 74, who personifies Lord Mountbatten, who is like a second father to Prince Charles.
- “Betty White, First Lady of Television.” The star of long-running hit shows like “The Golden Girls” and more recent series like “Hot in Cleveland,” 98-year-old Betty White has contributed groundbreaking comedic work in a wide range of roles. She’s done everything from hitting the field as a football player in a Snickers commercial to lobbying quips in a roast for former Star Trek star William Shatner. This not-to-be missed, behind-the-scenes look into Betty’s multi-faceted 75-year career features clips of her best work and interviews with famous friends and co-stars. Her secret to longevity? On an interview with ABC News, she credited it to pets, hot dogs and vodka!
We hope these viewing suggestions help you enjoy your time at home, but we can’t wait to have you get back out and visit PPH. We’re looking forward to hosting you at our community just as soon as it’s safe to do so. In the meantime, we invite you to watch our series of informative videos, which are filled with tips and advice to help you make retirement decisions that are right for you.