As Jack Nicholson turns 88, it is the perfect moment to reflect on the long, vibrant life of a true Hollywood legend. He is known for his unforgettable characters and that trademark devilish grin, leaving an undeniable mark on the film industry. From terrifying audiences in The Shining to charming them in As Good as It Gets, his range is impressive.
Beyond the silver screen, Nicholson has become a cultural icon sitting courtside at Lakers games and delivering speeches at historic moments. With a life full of cinematic triumphs, political stands, and unforgettable public appearances, here’s a look back at the moments that shaped his journey.
Jack Nicholson’s iconic filmography
As an Oscar-winning actor, Jack Nicholson is recognized and known for films like The Shining, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Chinatown, Terms of Endearment, Batman, and As Good as It Gets.
Courtside at Lakers Games
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Nicholson shared a moment with referee Dee Kantner while sitting courtside at a Lakers vs. Grizzlies game on November 16, 1997. His courtside loyalty is a staple of Lakers culture.
Winning big with Helen Hunt
On January 18, 1998, Nicholson and Helen Hunt posed with their Golden Globes for As Good as It Gets on a night where they both would also take home Oscars for their leading roles.
Celebrating a SAG Award
Nicholson proudly held his SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role for As Good As It Gets on March 8, 1998, in Los Angeles.
Rallying against impeachment
Nicholson joined nearly 1,000 people, including stars like Barbra Streisand and Ted Danson, in Los Angeles on December 16, 1998, to protest the impeachment of President Bill Clinton.
Playoff passion
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On May 11, 1999, Nicholson cheered on the Lakers in Game 2 of the Western Conference playoffs at The Forum, embodying his undying devotion to the team.
On set with Adam Sandler
Nicholson and Adam Sandler shared laughs while filming a scene for Anger Management in Central Park on July 2, 2002, reacting in character to a gun being pulled.
Greeting the press for ‘Something’s Gotta Give’
On December 3, 2003, Nicholson greeted the press at the New York premiere of Something’s Gotta Give, another romantic comedy hit in his late-career renaissance.
Toasting ‘Crash’s Oscar win
Nicholson celebrated with producers Cathy Schulman and Paul Haggis after their film Crash won Best Picture at the 2006 Oscars, an event he attended with his children.
Attending the Oscars with family
On March 5, 2006, Nicholson arrived at the Academy Awards with his children, Raymond and Lorraine, showing his role as both a Hollywood icon and devoted father.
Witnessing Kobe Bryant’s final game
Nicholson and his son Raymond were courtside for Kobe Bryant’s last game on April 13, 2016. The HBO series Winning Time later revealed he once mooned Celtics fans.
Still on the courtside in 2023
He returned courtside with Raymond again for Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals on May 12, 2023, shortly after introducing Adam Sandler at SNL’s 50th anniversary special.
Son, Ray Nicholson, steps into the spotlight
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On March 10, 2025, Nicholson’s son Ray starred in the thriller Novocaine and attended its premiere at Paramount Studios, continuing the family’s Hollywood legacy.
Honoring Dennis Hopper
Nicholson shared a warm moment with Dennis Hopper during Hopper’s Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony on March 26, 2010, joined by Hopper’s daughter, Galen for a tribute to their deep friendship.