As Danny DeVito celebrated his birthday on November 17, many longtime admirers were stunned to learn his real age. The Mirror report notes that fans “have been left gobsmacked,” with many assuming he was still somewhere in his 60s. Internal pieces on the site have often highlighted how certain Hollywood legends seem timeless, and Danny DeVito fits perfectly into that tradition. His energy, humor, and long-standing presence on screen make it easy to forget just how long he has been part of American entertainment history.
Before becoming one of Hollywood’s most recognizable figures, Danny DeVito worked as a cosmetologist in a morgue, styling the hair of the deceased. It’s a career beginning that feels almost cinematic, and as other celebrity retrospectives on the site have shown, extraordinary paths often start in the most unexpected places. As the reference article explains, he eventually left that profession behind and pursued acting, beginning with off-Broadway shows in 1969 before earning his first film role in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest in 1975.
Danny DeVito’s Rise To Fame
DeVito’s early breakthrough came with his role as Louie De Palma on the hit TV series Taxi in 1978. His performance earned him both an Emmy and a Golden Globe, cementing his place as a standout comedic actor. As explored in other nostalgic television features on this site, a single defining character can often open the door to decades of opportunity, and that was certainly the case for Danny DeVito. His bold, scene-stealing presence made Louie De Palma unforgettable, setting the stage for a long and varied career.
After Taxi, DeVito expanded into film, proving his versatility across genres. His roles in Matilda, Batman Returns, and the enduring sitcom It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia show how he has remained relevant across generations. The reference article notes that a Reddit user recently shared a photo taken as the actor entered his 80s, leaving fans shocked at how youthful he still appears. In many ways, this reaction reflects a broader truth: Danny DeVito has become such a consistent figure in pop culture that audiences sometimes forget how long he has been entertaining them.
Danny DeVito’s Legacy And Lasting Appeal
Today, DeVito stands as one of the few actors who has successfully bridged eras in entertainment, from 1970s stage work to modern television. His ability to evolve while staying true to his comedic instincts mirrors the journeys of other beloved performers featured in various internal retrospectives. His career began more than five decades ago, yet his charm remains as fresh as ever.
Much of DeVito’s appeal comes from his distinctive screen presence—a mix of sharp humor, emotional honesty, and undeniable charisma. His body of work continues to resonate with fans of all ages, reinforcing why he remains such an iconic figure. For many, discovering that Danny DeVito is now in his 80s only deepens their admiration, offering yet another reminder of how rare and remarkable his career truly is.