Some of our favorite actors and actresses are not the fly-by-night types that capture the spotlight for an intense but brief burst of fame. They are the ones who've stood the test of time with quality performances over many years. Here are a few examples of favorite actors who can boast of a lifetime of work on the big screen.
Mickey Rooney
Making his film debut at only 15 months old, Mickey Rooney is an actor that we have all grown up with. Beginning with more than 50 silent comedies filmed between 1927 and 1933 on up to films such as Night at the Museum (2006), Mickey Rooney has hundreds of movies under his belt. He is best known for his Andy Hardy movies of the 1930s and 1940s.
Hal Holbrook
Although not in the top echelon of A-list stars, Hal Holbrook has withstood the test of time. Starting out in television in the 1950s, the actor has worked consistently in television and film for decades. Holbrook played the role of Preston Blair in 2012's Academy Award nominated film, Lincoln.
Lauren Bacall
Perhaps best known for her work in the 1940s — in classic films such as Key Largo and The Big Sleep — Lauren Bacall is still working in film even today. Her next turn on the big screen will be in the film currently in production, Trouble is my Business.
Max von Sydow
Serious actor Max von Sydow is probably known by most moviegoers for his role as the Priest in the horror flick, The Exorcist. The Swedish-born actor has had a critically acclaimed career, including more than a hundred films. He recently appeared in 2011 Oscar nominated film, Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close.
Debbie Reynolds
Debbie Reynolds is best known for her acting, singing and dancing work in the favorite classic film of 1952, Singin' in the Rain. She has had a steady career and still works in film and television today.
Christopher Plummer
Although actor Christopher Plummer is best known — and beloved — for his role as Colonel von Trapp in the classic Hollywood musical The Sound of Music, he can boast of a lifetime full of acclaimed film work, including the film Beginners, which won him a Best Supporting Actor Oscar in 2012.
These are just a few of the actors we have all come to rely upon as the backbone of many movies and television series. The "actors of the day" may come and go for their "15 minutes of fame," but these professionals have stood the test of time with accolades and fan support that spans decades.
