How old is Laurence Fishburne is a question many fans ask when they revisit his legendary performances in film and television. As of today, October 16, 2025, Laurence Fishburne is 64 years old. He was born on July 30, 1961, in Augusta, Georgia. Over the decades, Fishburne has established himself as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors, directors, and producers, with a career spanning more than five decades.
Fishburne’s age is more than just a number—it reflects the extraordinary journey of a man who started acting as a child and became an enduring cultural figure. His work continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
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Early Life and Rising Talent
Laurence John Fishburne III was born to Hattie Bell Crawford, a junior high school mathematics and science teacher, and Laurence John Fishburne Jr., a juvenile corrections officer. He spent most of his childhood in Brooklyn, New York, after his parents’ separation. His early environment was one of discipline and education, both of which shaped his character.
By the age of 10, Fishburne was already acting professionally. His first notable role came in the television soap opera One Life to Live, where he played Joshua Hall from 1973 to 1976. At just 14 years old, he earned a role in Apocalypse Now (1979) as Tyrone “Mr. Clean” Miller. His age at the time became a subject of intrigue—he famously claimed to be older to secure the part. This early moment signaled the start of an extraordinary career.
Breakthrough Roles and Cultural Impact
Fishburne’s growth as an actor mirrored his age progression. In his twenties and thirties, he began taking on roles that would define his legacy.
- In 1991, at age 30, Fishburne played Furious Styles in John Singleton’s Boyz n the Hood. His performance as a tough but loving father figure remains one of his most memorable roles.
- In 1992, at 31, he starred as Ike Turner in What’s Love Got to Do with It. This portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.
- His stage work in August Wilson’s Two Trains Running earned him a Tony Award in 1992, highlighting his range beyond the screen.
During these years, Fishburne’s age aligned with his evolution into more complex, authoritative roles. His gravitas and commanding presence became trademarks of his performances.
The Matrix Era and Global Stardom
By 1999, Laurence Fishburne was 38 years old and at the peak of his powers. He took on the role of Morpheus in The Matrix, which became a global phenomenon. As the philosophical, leather-clad mentor to Keanu Reeves’ Neo, Fishburne created a pop culture icon. His portrayal of Morpheus, with his calm intensity and iconic dialogue, helped shape one of the most influential sci-fi trilogies of all time.
He reprised the role in The Matrix Reloaded (2003) and The Matrix Revolutions (2003), both released when he was in his early forties. These films solidified his status as a sci-fi legend and introduced him to a new generation of fans.
Continuing Success in His Fifties and Sixties
Laurence Fishburne’s sixties have been defined by consistency, diversity, and recognition. He has gracefully transitioned into elder statesman roles in both film and television, reflecting his real-life age and experience.
Some notable highlights from his more recent years include:
- 2013–2022: Portrayed Jack Crawford in NBC’s psychological thriller series Hannibal, showcasing his dramatic depth.
- 2017–2019: Joined the DC Extended Universe as Perry White in Man of Steel and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice.
- 2017–present: Plays Pops on black-ish, a role that earned him multiple Emmy nominations and endeared him to family audiences.
- 2023: Starred in John Wick: Chapter 4 as The Bowery King, a role he has inhabited since 2017. At 62, he commanded the screen with his signature intensity.
Fishburne’s age has not slowed his career; instead, it has enriched it. He has taken on mentor, patriarch, and leader roles that fit his seasoned presence while still embracing action and drama.
Timeline: Laurence Fishburne’s Age and Key Milestones
| Year | Age | Career Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| 1961 | 0 | Born in Augusta, Georgia |
| 1973 | 12 | Appears in One Life to Live |
| 1979 | 18 | Acts in Apocalypse Now |
| 1991 | 30 | Breakout role in Boyz n the Hood |
| 1992 | 31 | Wins Tony Award; Oscar nomination for What’s Love Got to Do with It |
| 1999 | 38 | Becomes Morpheus in The Matrix |
| 2013 | 52 | Stars in Hannibal |
| 2017 | 56 | Joins black-ish and John Wick franchises |
| 2025 | 64 | Continues acting across film, TV, and stage |
This timeline offers a clear perspective on how Laurence Fishburne’s age has paralleled his evolution from a child actor to a Hollywood legend.
Personal Reflections and Legacy
At 64, Laurence Fishburne stands as one of the few actors whose career has spanned child stardom, cultural milestone performances, and modern-day prestige television. His age has brought a maturity that enhances his performances rather than diminishes them.
Fishburne has also been involved in producing and narrating projects, using his deep, resonant voice to bring gravitas to documentaries and animated works. He has received numerous honors, including an Emmy Award and induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2007.
Why Fans Keep Asking “How Old Is Laurence Fishburne”
The enduring popularity of the question how old is Laurence Fishburne reflects his unique ability to stay relevant across decades. New audiences discover him through The Matrix, John Wick, or black-ish, while longtime fans have followed him since the 1970s. His age often surprises people because of his consistent energy and powerful performances.
In a constantly changing entertainment landscape, Fishburne remains a steady, commanding presence. His age symbolizes a career built on talent, discipline, and timeless appeal.
Current Status in 2025
As of mid-October 2025, Laurence Fishburne continues to work actively in Hollywood. He has several projects in development, including potential voice work for upcoming animated series and interest in returning to the stage. At 64, he maintains a professional schedule that rivals actors half his age.
His public appearances, interviews, and ongoing work confirm that he has no plans to retire anytime soon. Fishburne embodies longevity, proving that age can be a powerful asset in storytelling.
Conclusion
Laurence Fishburne’s age—64 years as of October 2025—is a testament to a career that spans more than half a century. From a teenage actor in Apocalypse Now to Morpheus in The Matrix and Pops on black-ish, his journey reflects both artistic evolution and enduring impact.
Laurence Fishburne’s legacy grows with time, and fans remain eager to follow his next chapter. Share your favorite Laurence Fishburne moment in the comments below.