Senior Sex Symbols Steal the Screen

Jan. 23, 2007 — -- Sure, Paris can pull off a miniskirt and Scarlett can rock short shorts. But you don't have to be in your 20s to be hot in Hollywood.

Some might say that no one does a plunging V-neck justice like 61-year-old Helen Mirren.

Mirren, who was nominated for a Best Actress Oscar today, is one of many aging Hollywood heavyweights proving that sex symbol status isn't just for kids. With a nod from the Academy under her belt, Mirren's at the top of her profession and still winning red carpet raves for her sexy, yet classic style.

And she's in good company: along with fellow Oscar nominees Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood, a generation of older stars are redefining what it means to be seductive and successful.

On the red carpet, Mirren, Streep and their peers, including Sophia Loren, Susan Sarandon and Candice Bergen, dazzle in couture gowns and flawless hair and makeup. But with these icons, unlike their younger counterparts, sex appeal isn't just about designer dresses and StairMaster-toned thighs.

"There's something incredibly sexy about a Helen or Meryl who are the antidote to the Britneys and Parises --they are people of real substance and drive," said Michael Musto, longtime gossip columnist and author of the new book, "La Dolce Musto."

While pretty young things come and go, the screen's senior sirens survive because of their talent.

"A lot of the younger counterparts are going to fall by the wayside," Musto said. "These are women who've survived, so therefore, they exude a sense of accomplishment. They wouldn't still be there if it was a matter of looks. They've got real talent."

The older actresses can command attention and acclaim. After years of seeing younger starlets walk off with Oscar hardware, Mirren is the odds-on favorite to win for Best Actress for her headlining role in "The Queen."

"This year, they're not just emblems of class -- Helen Mirren is a lock to win… It's the biggest lock since Mother Theresa's chastity belt," Musto said. "Best Actress has traditionally become an award for younger people -- Reese Witherspoon, Hilary Swank, et cetera. This is a great stride where the Academy is finally not afraid to pick someone of substance."

Clark Collis, a senior writer at Entertainment Weekly who recently interviewed Mirren, Streep and Judy Dench, believes Streep's role in "The Devil Wears Prada" and Mirren's in "The Queen" show that the industry is willing to cast older actresses in key parts.