9 Celebs Who Looked Totally Different in Their Youth – Pics to Compare

Ever wonder how some of the most recognizable faces in Hollywood have changed over time?
Take a video tour contrasting nine recognizable celebrities’ youthful looks with their current looks.
View the tiny alterations to the huge shifts that these stars have undergone as they age.

Judi Dench during the Celebration of Shakespeare event on February 14, 2024, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Time passes; everyone experiences it; even our favorite celebrities are not immune to its effects. Some celebrities age with almost miraculous grace, while others experience dramatic changes that are a reflection of their changing personal and professional life.

See how nine legendary personalities have evolved from their early years to the present, from the classic grace of Judi Dench to the gritty allure of Nick Nolte.

Nick Nolte at the premiere of “Rittenhouse Square” during The 31st Philadelphia Film Festival on October 23, 2022, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. | Source: Getty Images

Kathy Bates

American actress Kathy Bates is well-known. She has shared the screen with iconic Hollywood actors including Sandra Bullock in “The Blind Side” and Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet in “Titanic.” Bates, who has carved up a remarkable career in film and television, is renowned for her dominating presence and exceptional acting abilities.

In her earlier years, Bates’s warm smile, bright eyes, and soft, curling brown hair gave off an appearance of freshness and attractiveness. In her early performances, she was adored for her compassion and approachability, which was portrayed by her youthful appearance on shows like “Vanities” in 1977.

Kathy Bates and the cast of ABC TV special “Vanities” circa 1977. | Source: Getty Images

Bates has experienced an incredible metamorphosis over the years, displaying a woman who has accepted the changes that come with age with grace. Her current tastefully gray, short hair accentuates her mature and elegant appearance.

Kathy Bates at the 2020 National Board of Review Gala on January 8, 2020, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

At 75, Bates remains as bubbly and free-spirited as ever, endearing herself to fans with her vivacious personality. In early May, she stepped out for the CBS Fall Schedule Celebration in Los Angeles, showcasing her timeless charm and wit.

Kathy Bates and Skye P. Marshall at the Fall Schedule Celebration on May 2, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

During the event, Bates shared a humorous anecdote about receiving SKIMS products from Kim Kardashian a few years ago, along with a promise to feature her in an ad. “And so I think, Kim, I’m waiting. I’m ready,” Bates teased. Despite her long career, Bates shows no signs of slowing down.

Kathy Bates at the Fall Schedule Celebration on May 2, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

She keeps taking on intriguing new roles, exhibiting her unwavering love for performing. The first trailer for her upcoming comedy “Summer Camp,” in which she co-stars with Diane Keaton and Alfre Woodard, was exclusively released to PEOPLE.

Kathy Bates in her younger years and her now. | Source: Getty Images

Nick Nolte

The tough American actor Nick Nolte, who won a Golden Globe, is well-known for his iconic roles in movies like “48 Hours,” “A Walk in the Woods,” and “The Deep.” Nolte has never shied away from controversy throughout his career, projecting an audacious and unapologetic persona both on and off the screen.

Nick Nolte on the set of “The Deep” circa 1976. | Source: Getty Images

Nolte was the quintessential Hollywood hottie in his younger years. His younger years in the 1970s demonstrated his incredibly attractive characteristics, which included his piercing blue eyes, tousled blonde hair, and chiseled jawline.

Nolte was a remarkable star of his generation because of his youthful appearance, which emanated a rough yet approachable personality and natural charisma. Nolte’s appearance has changed significantly over time.

Nick Nolte during a photoshoot on January 12, 1978. | Source: Getty Images

His hair, now white and unkempt, and his deeply lined face reflect the years and experiences that have shaped him. Despite these changes, his eyes still hold the intense, thoughtful gaze that has always defined his presence.

Nick Nolte at his Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame celebration on November 20, 2017, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

In an open interview in 2015, at the age of 70, Nolte acknowledged that aging was physically affecting him. He said that the agonizing discomfort he experienced upon rising from his bed caused him to cry every morning and that it felt “like hell.”

But Nolte stated in 2022 that he was determined to keep working, saying, “No. [Retirement] does not fit within my category. I will have to consider it if I develop an age-related illness and am unable to treat it.”

Nick Nolte in his younger years and him now. | Source: Getty Images

Mickey Rourke

American actor Mickey Rourke was formerly a professional boxer. With his powerful performances in movies like “Iron Man 2,” “9 ½ Weeks,” and “The Wrestler,” he has dazzled audiences. Rourke, who is well-known for his aggressive on-screen persona and turbulent personal life, has had tremendous highs and lows in his career.

Mickey Rourke and Kim Basinger on the set of “9 1/2 Weeks” on January 1, 1986. | Source: Getty Images

When he was younger, Rourke embodied the glamour of 1980s Hollywood. He was a unique leading man with his chiseled features, piercing eyes, and smooth, tanned complexion. Audiences were fascinated by Rourke’s smoldering and confident appearance. He became known for being a charming performer as a result of them.

Rourke’s appearance has changed dramatically over time. His face now has more defined lines and a rougher texture, reflecting the passage of time. His striking features show the effects of age and his former fighting career, and his previously immaculately coiffed hair is now frequently disguised by hats.

Mickey Rourke at the UFC 227 event on August 4, 2018, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

During an outing in Beverly Hills in April, Rourke was photographed with his longtime pal and hairstylist Giuseppe Franco. Following their departure from an Italian café together, the 71-year-old actor showed Franco his tender side by planting a kiss on his cheek.

Rourke’s outfit, which included a low-cut t-shirt over a checkered trench coat, emphasized his unique and edgy look. Rourke is no longer a professional boxer. He still has a great enthusiasm for performing, though.

Mickey Rourke at the TEATRO Even Summer White Affair on June 17, 2022, in West Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

The action-thriller “Bring the Law,” his most recent endeavor, wrapped up production in the first part of April. The film demonstrates Rourke’s continued devotion to his work. Rourke’s will to stay involved in the boxing business is apparent, even with the physical consequences of his profession and the difficulties of aging.

Mickey Rourke in his younger years and him now. | Source: Getty Images

Judi Dench

Regarded as one of the best actors in Britain, Judi Dench has made a lasting impression on theater and television. Dench has a lengthy career that spans multiple decades. Her most well-known performance was in the James Bond series as M. She played the role with an unparalleled level of grace and confidence.

Dench was a gently attractive young woman. Her features were gentle and elegant, her skin clean and luminous, her eyes expressive. Her early parts in Shakespearean plays like “Hamlet” and “Romeo and Juliet” frequently brought out her beauty and grace, making her a budding star in the performing community.

Judi Dench and John Stride as Romeo and Juliet in October 1960. | Source: Getty Images

Naturally, Dench’s appearance has evolved with time. They exhibit the changes brought about by time. They portray an elderly woman with grace and respect.

Her now strikingly white hair frames a face etched with the lines of wisdom and experience. Her eyes continue to have the same depth and intensity that have always been characteristic of her, notwithstanding these alterations.

Judi Dench on “TODAY” on September 15, 2017. | Source: Getty Images

Her career has been filled with achievements and accolades, one of which being an Academy Award. However, Dencht has intimated that her illustrious cinematic career may be coming to an end.

The 89-year-old actress revealed this information in 2019 when in London for the Chelsea Flower Show. When asked about her upcoming endeavors by a journalist, Dench responded quite bluntly, saying, “No, no, I can’t even see!”

Judi Dench at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show on May 20, 2019, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Her continuous struggle with age-related macular degeneration, which significantly hinders eyesight, is highlighted by this startling statement. In 2022, Dench made her final performance in the film “Spirited.”

In a fun Christmas musical comedy starring Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell, she as herself. Her ability to maintain her charm and talent in the face of the obstacles posed by her illness was demonstrated by the part.

Judi Dench in her younger years and her now. | Source: Getty Images

Tilda Swinton

The mysterious British actress Tilda Swinton is known for her incredible flexibility, having starred in both indie and big-budget productions. She has received many honors for her varied career, which has cemented her reputation as a distinctive and significant player in the film business.

Swinton’s straight auburn hair, beautiful eyes, and smooth, pale skin were the hallmarks of her youthful beauty. Even in the early years of her career in the 1990s, her unassuming style and inherent beauty made her stand out and gave hints about the unorthodox and daring route she would take in Hollywood.

Tilda Swinton at the premiere of “Orlando” on June 2, 1993, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Swinton’s appearance has changed over the years, expressing her bold attitude toward her work and personal style. The actress now has platinum blonde hair that is fashioned to accentuate her sharp features in a sleek and edgy way.

Tilda Swinton at the CHANEL Metiers D’Art Show on December 7, 2023, in Manchester, England. | Source: Getty Images

Her face, which is now delicately lined, radiates strength and maturity, giving her already captivating presence more depth. Swinton and her longtime partner Sandro Kopp were spotted having a laid-back day out in New York City at the beginning of May.

It was a rare public appearance for the usually reserved actress, but the couple looked content and at ease as they strolled through the city. Shortly after the thrilling announcement of Swinton’s most recent career venture, she went on this outing.

Tilda Swinton at the screening of “Problemista” on February 27, 2024, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

She was confirmed to star alongside Colin Farrell in Edward Berger’s soon-to-be Netflix original film, “The Ballad of a Small Player.” This highly anticipated partnership promises to present Swinton’s extraordinary talent in a fresh and captivating story.

Tilda Swinton in her younger years and her now. | Source: Getty Images

Joan Collins

Dame Joan Henrietta Collins, better known by her stage name Joan Collins, is a well-known English actress, writer, and columnist who has had an extraordinary eight decades of career. Over her long career in the entertainment world, the native of London has received multiple awards and enjoyed great success.

When Collins was younger, she exuded vintage Hollywood grace. Her immaculate skin and black, well-groomed hair complemented her stunning green eyes, lending her an aura of elegance and charm.

A portrait of Joan Collins smiling circa 1956. | Source: Getty Images

Collins has remained a glamorous and graceful woman over time. When the actress made a public appearance earlier this year, her black, thick hair was still in place. Her elegant features, defined by the lines of age that came with age but did not lose their individuality, looked great with her unique hairstyle.

Joan Collins at The Variety Club Showbusiness Awards 2024 on April 28, 2024, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Collins, who recently joined the cast of “Fawlty Towers: The Play” at London’s Apollo Theatre on May 30, embodied elegant refinement.

The ninety-one-year-old actress looked stunning in a beige two-piece suit worn over a sophisticated cream top. Cream open-toe sandals finished her look, lending a hint of sophistication and height to her already exquisite image.

Joan Collins posing backstage with the cast of “Fawlty Towers: The Play” on May 29, 2024, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Collins is still a dynamic and active presence in the entertainment industry despite her advanced age. She is still passionately pursuing her passions and has shown time and time again that age is just a number.

“I’m not going to let my age or my number define who I am. I adore writing, acting, and performing on stage with my little one-woman show. Collins said, “I think that’s really outdated and unfit for the modern world.

Joan Collins in her younger years and her now. | Source: Getty Images

Alain Delon

Renowned for his work in French cinema, Alain Delon has had a profound impact on the industry with his many positions as an actor, director, singer, and businessman.

Recognized for his captivating appearance and powerful on-screen persona, Delon acted in a number of iconic motion pictures, such as “Purple Noon” (1960), “The Leopard” (1963), and “Swimming Pool” (1969).

Alain Delon during a scene from “The Leopard” in 1963. | Source: Getty Images

His position as a worldwide celebrity was cemented by these movies, which also demonstrated his range and nuance as an actor. Delon was praised for his remarkable beauty when he was little.

The actor looked stunning in the 1960s, with piercing blue eyes, flawlessly styled dark hair, and a smooth, beautiful complexion. His sculpted features and self-assured manner captivated audiences all around the world as they personified the ideal of cinematic masculinity.

Alain Delon circa 1962. | Source: Getty Images

Delon’s look has changed dramatically over time, exposing a guy who has matured with grace and who now has the signs of experience and time on his face.

The actor’s once-smooth face displayed deep creases and a worn texture at his 2013 Cannes Film Festival appearance, reflecting the many years of his rich and diverse life. Even with his age, his vivid blue eyes stood out against a face that exuded strength and fortitude.

Alain Delon at the Tribute To Alain Delon during The 66th Annual Cannes Film Festival on May 25, 2013, in Cannes, France. | Source: Getty Images

Delon’s hair, now gray and receding, gives his appearance a touch of refined elegance. His solemn, reflective gaze exudes gravitas and knowledge that come with age.

Delon’s physical transformation doesn’t take away from his captivating presence. The actor’s public appearances over the years have demonstrated that he still has the decency and strength that have marked his lengthy career.

Hermann Buehlbecker; Paz Vega, and Alain Delon at the Lambertz Monday Night on January 27, 2014, in Cologne, Germany. | Source: Getty Images

Even with such a distinguished career, Delon has recently made news for more private reasons, as his son disclosed that the actor was finding it difficult to accept his failing health.

“He doesn’t speak much, it tires him or it annoys him when we make him repeat because his voice is no longer always clear, or audible,” said Delon’s son. Since then, there have been rumors that Delon has launched a lawsuit against his son.

A judge decided to put Delon under legal protection during this family disagreement because of worries for his health and welfare. This step guarantees that, even while his children work through their disagreements regarding his care, Delon will continue to be involved in important decisions concerning his health care and financial management.

Alain Delon in his younger years and him now. | Source: Getty Images / Instagram

Maggie Smith

Dame Margaret Natalie Smith, better known by her stage name Maggie Smith, is a beloved English actress noted for her witty repartee and standout performances in a variety of humorous roles. Though Smith has received praise for her roles in light humor, her goals have always been more serious and tragic roles.

Smith’s perfect skin, elegantly combed dark hair, and expressive blue eyes captured the essence of classic beauty in the 1960s. In her early performances, she stood out due to her enticing grin and calm demeanor, which showcased her inherent charm and sophistication.

Maggie Smith at the Evening Standards Drama Awards on January 26, 1960, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Maggie Smith’s looks has changed dramatically throughout the years, revealing a life full of remarkable events and accomplishments.

The actress had grown up with elegance and grace by 2005. Her graying hair framed a face etched with age, each wrinkle revealing a chapter from her lengthy career and life experiences.

Maggie Smith at the 4th Annual Tribeca Film Festival on April 23, 2005, in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Her eyes continue to glitter with the same depth and intelligence that have characterized her performances throughout these transitions. During an interview, Smith shared a moving story about her professional experience.

She has wanted to be a serious theater actor since she was a teenager. But she got her start in revue in the 1950s, and that’s how she rose to fame in light comedy.

Maggie Smith at the Acting For Others Golden Bucket Awards on May 4, 2018, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Smith said after giving this some thought, “[…] It took an eternity to move past lighthearted humor. Although I am incredibly appreciative of the work in Potter and Downton, I wouldn’t describe it as rewarding. I didn’t think I was behaving in those situations.”

In addition to her considerable esteem and appreciation, Smith’s generosity off-screen has further cemented her reputation as an actor with depth and range.

Maggie Smith at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 9, 2022, in London, England. | Source: Getty Images

Whoopi Goldberg wrote in her memoir, “Bits and Pieces: My Mother, My Brother, and Me,” in May, about how much Smith helped her through a very trying period in her life.

Smith was a great source of understanding and support for Goldberg after the deaths of her mother and brother. “Having Maggie Smith be there […] just having somebody who got it, who understood, it’s everything,” Goldberg said.

Maggie Smith in her younger years and her now. | Source: Getty Images

Helen Mirren

The renowned English actress Helen Mirren has made a name for herself in Hollywood with an incredible career spanning more than 60 years. She has received multiple honors for her work in the film industry, including an Academy Award, BAFTAs, Golden Globes, and more.

During the 1970s, Mirren’s glowing skin, expressive eyes, and flowing blonde hair all contributed to her alluring appeal. She gained critical acclaim and a devoted following in her early performances because to her youthful elegance and attractive features.

Helen Mirren, circa 1970. | Source: Getty Images

Although Mirren’s appearance has changed with time, she still exudes a certain elegance and charm. By 2023, Mirren had developed into a refined and dignified beauty, with silver hair lending an air of royal elegance to her appearance.

Helen Mirren at the “Golda” premiere during the 73rd Berlinale International Film Festival on February 20, 2023, in Berlin, Germany. | Source: Getty Images

Her face, marked by the lines of experience, reflects a life rich with diverse roles and profound performances. Despite the passage of time, her eyes still hold the same expressive depth that captivated audiences in her early career.

Helen Mirren in her younger years and her now. | Source: Getty Images

These nine celebrities have undergone incredible changes, from their innocent early career days to their esteemed appearances now.