Fans around the world are once again asking: how old is Laurence Fishburne? The celebrated actor, known for his commanding presence on both stage and screen, turned 64 years old on July 30, 2025. Fishburne, whose career spans over five decades, continues to make an impact in Hollywood through acting, producing, and occasional stage work. His age underscores a remarkable journey that began when he was just a teenager and has evolved into one of the most respected careers in American entertainment.
Laurence Fishburne remains a prominent figure in the industry, with recent appearances in television dramas and upcoming film projects that keep audiences captivated. His longevity in Hollywood highlights both his talent and his ability to adapt across generations of filmmaking.
Early Life and Birth Date
Laurence John Fishburne III was born on July 30, 1961, in Augusta, Georgia. His parents separated during his childhood, and he was raised primarily by his mother in Brooklyn, New York. His early exposure to arts and culture shaped his passion for acting, and by the time he was in his early teens, he had already landed his first professional roles.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Laurence John Fishburne III |
| Date of Birth | July 30, 1961 |
| Place of Birth | Augusta, Georgia, U.S. |
| Current Age (as of Oct 2025) | 64 years old |
This birth date makes it easy to calculate exactly how old Laurence Fishburne is today: 64. His birthday each summer continues to spark social media celebrations from fans and fellow celebrities, often accompanied by nostalgic throwbacks to his most iconic roles.
Breakthrough in Hollywood
Fishburne began his acting career early, appearing on the soap opera One Life to Live at the age of 10. But his major break came when he was just 14 years old, after lying about his age to secure a role in Francis Ford Coppola’s epic war film Apocalypse Now (1979). His performance as Tyrone “Mr. Clean” Miller stood out, marking the beginning of a prolific career.
Throughout the 1980s, Fishburne built a reputation as a versatile actor, appearing in television, theater, and films. Notable early credits include:
- The Cotton Club (1984)
- Pee-wee’s Playhouse (1986–1990) as Cowboy Curtis
- School Daze (1988)
- Boyz n the Hood (1991), where his portrayal of Furious Styles earned critical acclaim
These roles positioned Fishburne as one of the most dynamic performers of his generation, seamlessly moving between genres and mediums.
Rise to Prominence
By the 1990s, Fishburne had transitioned from supporting roles to leading man status. His portrayal of Ike Turner in the 1993 biographical drama What’s Love Got to Do with It earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. In 1992, he also became the first African American actor to play Othello in a major film production, further showcasing his range.
The question “how old is Laurence Fishburne” often comes up in discussions about his long-running career, especially when reflecting on how young he was during these landmark performances. He was only in his early 30s during many of these acclaimed roles, yet he carried the weight and gravitas of actors twice his age.
The Matrix and Cultural Impact
In 1999, Fishburne reached global fame with his role as Morpheus in The Matrix. His portrayal of the enigmatic leader of the human resistance became one of the most iconic characters in science fiction cinema. The film’s success cemented Fishburne’s status as a pop culture legend.
He reprised the role in:
- The Matrix Reloaded (2003)
- The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
Although he did not return for The Matrix Resurrections in 2021, his original performance remains timeless. His deep voice, philosophical dialogue, and powerful on-screen presence contributed to the film’s enduring legacy.
Television Success and Later Career
Beyond film, Fishburne found major success on television. From 2008 to 2011, he starred as Dr. Raymond Langston on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, one of the most popular procedural dramas in the U.S. He later took on the role of Jack Crawford in the psychological thriller Hannibal (2013–2015), earning praise for his layered performance.
Fishburne also played Pops on the critically acclaimed sitcom Black-ish (2014–2022), demonstrating his comedic abilities while mentoring a new generation of actors. His role on the show connected him with younger viewers, extending his cultural relevance well into his 60s.
Even at 64, Fishburne continues to work consistently. His recent appearances include dramatic television roles and a return to the stage, proving that age is not slowing him down.
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Laurence Fishburne has received numerous accolades, including:
- Emmy Awards for Outstanding Guest Actor and Outstanding Made for Television Movie
- Tony Award for Best Featured Actor in a Play (Two Trains Running, 1992)
- Academy Award Nomination for Best Actor (What’s Love Got to Do with It, 1993)
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star in 2007
These achievements highlight a career filled with both critical acclaim and cultural significance.
Recent Updates (2025)
As of October 2025, Fishburne remains active in the industry:
- He recently completed filming on a limited drama series slated for release in early 2026.
- He continues to collaborate with younger filmmakers, often choosing roles that reflect complex, morally layered characters.
- His stage work has also drawn attention, with select appearances in New York theater productions during the past year.
Given that Laurence Fishburne is 64 years old, his continued presence in entertainment stands as a testament to his discipline and passion for the craft.
Personal Life Snapshot
Fishburne has three children: Langston, Montana, and Delilah. While he keeps his personal life relatively private, he occasionally appears at major public events and award ceremonies. Over the years, he has been vocal about issues of representation in Hollywood and has used his platform to support the arts.
Why His Age Matters in Pop Culture
Understanding how old Laurence Fishburne is isn’t just about a number. It’s a reminder of how long he has been shaping cultural narratives. From Apocalypse Now to The Matrix and beyond, his career spans major shifts in Hollywood’s history. His ability to remain relevant for over fifty years speaks volumes about his skill and adaptability.
For fans and film enthusiasts, Fishburne’s age marks a living timeline of cinema itself—moving through eras, genres, and platforms while staying consistently respected and admired.
Laurence Fishburne’s 64 years reflect not only personal longevity but also the enduring power of great storytelling and performance. His career continues to inspire actors and audiences alike.
What’s your favorite Laurence Fishburne role? Share your thoughts in the comments below and stay tuned for more updates on his ongoing career.