Michael Caine Ends Decades-Long Acting Career



by NOUMAN RASOOL

Michael Caine Ends Decades-Long Acting Career
Michael Caine Ends Decades-Long Acting Career © Lia Toby/GettyImages

Legendary English actor, Sir Michael Caine, at the grand age of 90, has decided to gracefully step out of the cinematic world, leaving behind an impressive legacy after his final film, "The Great Escaper." Speaking to BBC Radio 4's Today, Caine revealed, "I keep saying I'm going to retire.

Well, I am now." Reflecting on his triumphant career, Caine said, "I've had a picture where I've played the lead, and it's received fantastic reviews. As of now, the roles that are likely to come my way are those of elderly men.

With such phenomenal feedback, what could possibly top this?" In "The Great Escaper," he took on the role of a WWII veteran breaking out of his care home to attend the D-Day 70th anniversary. Interestingly, Caine, known for films like "Going in Style," has real military experience, having served during the Korean War after enlisting with the British Army in 1952.

Redefining Age in Cinema

He highlighted the importance of representing older characters in films and their evolving portrayal. "When I was young, I recall 90-year-olds as frail, hunched figures," he commented, emphasizing that today's 90 is vastly different from yesteryears.

In 2021, Caine appeared to reverse on his retirement stance, stating, "I've spent over 50 years waking up early for movies. My alarm clock stays!" He once revealed his inclination towards writing over acting, mainly due to the early studio call times.

Previously, he speculated that "Best Sellers" might be his swansong, referencing health issues impacting his mobility. "I haven't worked for two years due to a spine issue affecting my legs," he shared in a candid interview.

Spanning over five decades, Caine's illustrious career boasts two Academy Awards, a BAFTA, three Golden Globes, and three SAG Awards. He made waves in the 1960s with films like "Zulu" and "The Italian Job." The subsequent decades saw him shine in "Educating Rita" and "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels," among others.

The 2000s witnessed no slowing down, with roles in blockbusters like "Inception" and "The Dark Knight Rises." On a personal front, Caine was married to Patricia Haines, with whom he had a daughter, Dominique. Since 1973, he's been with Shakira Baksh, and they share a daughter, Natasha Haleema.