A Hollywood legend recently turned heads after being spotted grocery shopping in New York City—looking nearly unrecognizable at 77. The man behind the headlines? None other than the beloved entertainer Billy Crystal.
Crystal, whose career has charmed audiences for over five decades, rose to prominence in the 1970s. He made TV history with his groundbreaking role as one of the first openly gay characters in the sitcom Soap (1977). Even earlier, he filmed a sketch for the premiere episode of Saturday Night Live in 1975, though it was ultimately cut from the broadcast.
His big-screen debut came in 1978 with Rabbit Test, a quirky comedy directed by Joan Rivers in which he played a pregnant man. Despite the film’s poor reception, Crystal’s career didn’t falter—his stand-up comedy and sharp wit kept him climbing. He officially joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in 1984, where his comedic brilliance earned him further acclaim.
By the late ’80s, Crystal had made the leap to leading man. He starred in beloved films like The Princess Bride and Throw Momma from the Train, but it was his role in the 1989 hit When Harry Met Sally… that secured his place in Hollywood history. Starring opposite Meg Ryan, Crystal helped create one of the most iconic romantic comedies of all time.
The 1990s brought more box-office success with City Slickers and Father’s Day, while he also showcased his range with directing projects like Mr. Saturday Night and Forget Paris. That decade also marked the beginning of his memorable run as host of the Academy Awards. Crystal hosted the Oscars nine times between 1990 and 2012, becoming a fan favorite for his quick wit and charm.
In the 2000s, he endeared himself to younger audiences by voicing Mike Wazowski in Pixar’s Monsters, Inc. franchise. More recently, he returned to the stage, adapting Mr. Saturday Night into a Broadway musical in 2022, once again stepping into the lead role.
Fans were thrilled to see him reunite with Meg Ryan on stage at the 2025 Oscars, where they presented Best Picture together—reminding everyone of their timeless chemistry.
Though he may look different today, Billy Crystal’s legacy remains unmistakable. From stand-up stages to red carpets, animated monsters to heartfelt rom-coms, he has left an indelible mark on entertainment history.
