Ellen Burstyn Discusses Secrets to Longevity at 93

At 93, actress Ellen Burstyn recently revealed her approach to maintaining a healthy lifestyle during her appearance on the podcast “literally! With Rob Lowe.” Along with the launch of her new book, Poetry Says It Better: Poems to Help You Wake Up, she shared insights into the habits she abandoned to boost her well-being.

Burstyn stated, “I don’t drink alcohol. I don’t smoke anymore. I don’t smoke marijuana anymore.” She emphasized her plant-based diet and talked about her exercise routine, noting she walks her dog a few times each week and works out with a trainer.

“I aim for a healthy lifestyle, and you could say it’s paying off,” she added.

In a recent chat on “Live with Kelly and Mark,” the “Exorcist” star mentioned her daily workout routine and expressed a fondness for walks in New York City’s Central Park. She confidently conveyed, “This is how you can still be active at 93 years old.”

Burstyn has previously discussed her commitment to health during a conversation promoting “Law and Order: Organized Crime,” co-starring Christopher Meloni. She identified her vegetarian diet, avoidance of intoxicants, and exercise as vital components of her life change.

Reflecting on her journey, she remarked, “I made this decision after decades of doing bad things.” Burstyn keeps her mind sharp by reading, staying creative, and nurturing her social life.

In past interviews, she pondered the concept of ageism in Hollywood. Surprisingly, at 90, she found herself busier than ever with her career. “This is very strange. I’ll be 91 in December, and I’ve been busier than I can remember at any point in my career,” she noted.

When Meloni inquired about her continued success, Burstyn quipped, “I might be the only actress alive who could play a great-grandmother.”

As for what fuels her enthusiasm for work at this age, she shared that every day begins with gratitude. “I try to make sure the first words out of my mouth are ‘thank you.’ I’m grateful to be alive, safe, healthy, and still going strong over 90,” she explained.

In “Law & Order: Organized Crime,” Burstyn portrayed Bernadette “Bernie” Stabler, the complex mother of Detective Elliot Stabler, played by Meloni. She first appeared in the series during its 10th season of “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,” winning an Emmy for her performance.

Following her successful role, she became a recurring guest star on “Law & Order: Organized Crime,” which recently wrapped its fifth season on NBC. Looking ahead, Burstyn is set to appear in the upcoming drama film Place To Be, alongside stars like Taika Waititi and Pamela Anderson.