Summary (tl;dr)

Veteran actress June Squibb is currently trending due to her starring roles in the critically acclaimed films "Thelma" and "Eleanor the Great," coupled with significant awards season buzz and her return to Broadway.

Essential Background

June Squibb, born November 6, 1929, is an American actress with a career spanning decades on Broadway, television, and film. She gained widespread recognition and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the 2013 film "Nebraska" at the age of 84. Her career has seen a resurgence in recent years, defying typical industry age constraints with increasingly prominent roles.

The Full Story

June Squibb, who turned 96 in November 2025, is trending due to a confluence of high-profile entertainment projects. She starred in "Thelma," an action-comedy film released in June 2024, which marked her first leading role and garnered significant critical acclaim, leading to an Independent Spirit Award nomination for her performance and discussions about a potential historic Oscar nomination for Best Actress in the 2025 awards season. Additionally, Squibb takes on another leading role in "Eleanor the Great," Scarlett Johansson's directorial debut, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival earlier in 2025 and opened in theaters in November 2025. She also lent her voice to the character Nostalgia in the animated hit "Inside Out 2," which was nominated for Best Animated Film at the 2025 Oscars. Further adding to her visibility, Squibb is returning to Broadway in "Marjorie Prime," with recent press events highlighting the production.

Why It Matters

June Squibb's continued success and trending status are significant for several reasons. At 95 years old, her prominent and critically lauded performances challenge ageism in Hollywood and showcase the enduring talent and appeal of older actors in leading roles. Her work in films like "Thelma" and "Eleanor the Great" is drawing attention for its quality and her ability to perform her own stunts, demonstrating remarkable physical and emotional depth. This visibility is not only a personal triumph for Squibb but also signals a broader industry shift towards diverse casting that resonates with loyal and underserved older audiences. Her ongoing career redefines notions of relevance and longevity in entertainment, inspiring both young and experienced artists.