24 Actresses From The Golden Age Of Hollywood

They were sexpots and showgirls, scheming wives and perfect mothers, melodious singers, riotous comedians, and scream queens. One thing the actresses who graced the big screen in the '40s, '50s, and early '60s all shared was a level of glamour we still aspire to today. While some of the brightest stars of this golden age died young, and some burned out more recently, we want to take a moment to salute the ladies who are still with us.

They may be closer in age to our grandmothers, but they're cemented in our minds at the peak of youth. How surreal it must be for them to hear today's young stars say they want to evoke "Old Hollywood" style on the red carpet. And, what must they think when an actress half their age complains there aren't enough roles for older women?

You may be surprised to learn that a few of these actresses gave voice to some of the cartoons of our youth. Others have appeared on shows like Grey's Anatomy and Law & Order: SVU, just to keep those young docs and detectives on their toes. And, a few, due to health reasons or because they're ready to escape the spotlight, are enjoying their retirement in peace. Whatever they're doing these days, they certainly set out some gorgeous heels for today's actresses to fill.