How old is Laurence Fishburne and when was he born
Laurence John Fishburne III was born on July 30, 1961, which makes him 63 years old as of mid-2025. He was born in Augusta, Georgia, and raised in New York City. Fishburne began his entertainment career as a child and has remained active for more than four decades. This article explains his age relative to key dates, clarifies common confusion around birth year, and places his career milestones in context.
Verified birth date and age details
Public records, interviews, and reputable biographies confirm his birth date as July 30, 1961. Therefore, his age in any given year can be calculated by subtracting 1961 from the calendar year. For events that occurred in earlier decades, reliable sourcing and consistent reporting support the timeline described here.
Age at major career milestones
| Milestone | Year | Age at time | Source type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional acting debut (television) | 1973 | 12 | Biographical record |
| Breakout role in Fame | 1980 | 19 | Production credits |
| Role in What's Love Got to Do with It | 1993 | 32 | Film release data |
| Lead in CSI: Miami begins | 2002 | 41 | Network announcement |
Common confusion about birth year
Some sources have misreported his birth year as 1955 or 1965. However, legal documents, authoritative biographies, and interviews consistently align on 1961. Understanding the correct birth year is essential for accurately determining his age and professional timeline.
Career highlights that frame his age
Fishburne’s career spans theater, television, and film. His early work as a child actor led to steady roles in the 1980s, a prominent dramatic turn in the 1990s, and long-running lead roles in the 2000s and beyond. Each phase reflects evolving skills and sustained industry relevance.
- Child performer on stage and early television
- Breakthrough in the film Fame (1980)
- Iconic performance in What's Love Got to Do with It (1993)
- Long tenure in television with CSI: Miami and later roles
Personal timeline and family context
Fishburne’s age and stage of life influence his work rhythm and family focus. He has balanced demanding roles with parenting, which is reflected in his selective project choices. His career longevity is supported by a combination of talent, adaptability, and personal stability.
Key personal and professional dates
| Date | Event | Relevance to age and career |
|---|---|---|
| July 30, 1961 | Birth | Determines age and career duration |
| 1973 | First television appearance | Early professional start |
| 1993 | What's Love Got to Do with It release | Career peak and recognition |
| 2002 | CSI: Miami series launch | Long-form television prominence |
Age in the context of his body of work
At 63, Laurence Fishburne remains an active and respected figure. His age aligns with a deep catalog of work and a public presence marked by consistency. Viewers and industry peers often note his ongoing versatility and readiness for complex roles.
Addressing rumors about age or retirement
As with any long-career public figure, unverified rumors occasionally circulate. Reliable sources confirm he continues to work and maintains a professional schedule. Discrepancies in age or retirement status typically stem from misreported dates or speculative commentary.
Comparable career spans
Fishburne’s decades-long trajectory is notable in the entertainment industry. His career length and sustained relevance can be better understood by comparing key milestones with peers who began in the same era.
- Consistent work across stage, film, and television
- Evolution from child star to mature lead
- Continued audience engagement and critical respect
Why accurate age matters
Correct age reporting supports fair representation of his achievements and influences. It anchors timelines, casting contexts, and industry planning. Using verified sources ensures clarity for audiences, researchers, and collaborators.
Resources for further verification
For continued fact checks, refer to official biographies, studio press kits, reputable entertainment databases, and archival interview records. These materials provide traceable evidence to confirm or review age-related details.
Summary takeaway
Laurence Fishburne, born July 30, 1961, is 63 years old as of mid-2025. His verified birth date anchors a career that spans over 50 years, reflecting durability, adaptation, and ongoing relevance in film and television.