- Ruth Gordon, Harold and Maude, 1971. There were obviously quite a few possible Harolds, but surely Ruth was the only possible Maude – even if she couldn’t drive a car. Not quite. Director Hal Ashby chatted up every funky old bird still breathing and insurable… Elisabeth Bergner, Gladys Cooper, Edith Evans, Edwige Feuillère, Mildred Natwick, Dorothy Stickney.
- Maggie Smith, Hook, 1991. Quizzed in 2012 about the TV success of her old Dowager Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey, Dame Mags said she did not mind playing wrinklies. “I’m just glad to get any role, the fact that they’re all 90…” She presumed it all started with Granny Wendy. Dame Peg had to pass – “and I was suggested. They asked how old I was and somebody said 92.” She was 57 – 76 when starting the Dowager Duchess.
Birth year: 1907Death year: 1991Other name: Casting Calls: 2