The 1970s were an explosion of glitz, disco balls, and questionable fashion choices (hello, bell-bottoms!). But some women of the era didn’t just make it big—they became icons. Fast forward a few decades, and they’re still stealing the spotlight, even if it’s in a slightly different way. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and see how these leading ladies of the ’70s have transformed.
Linda Ronstadt: The Voice That Rocked, Then Went Silent
Linda Ronstadt dominated the ’70s with her killer pipes and anthems like “You’re No Good.” She sang her way to the bank and became the highest-paid woman in rock.
By the 2010s, Linda revealed she had Parkinson’s, which tragically ended her singing career. While her voice is silenced, her legacy belts louder than ever.
Today, Linda is remembered as a genre-hopping superstar who could rock out or croon a ballad. Her awards shelf is as impressive as her vocal range.
Linda Gray: From Soap Star to Stage Queen
Linda Gray became TV royalty as Sue Ellen Ewing in Dallas, earning nominations galore and making betrayal look chic. The ’80s were practically her playground.
She later strutted her stuff in the West End’s The Graduate and even popped up in Hand of God in 2017, showing that drama isn’t just for soap operas.
Gray remains a force, balancing screen time with theater gigs. The only drama now? Figuring out which award to dust first.
Kim Basinger: From Runways to Blockbusters
Kim Basinger swapped her modeling strut for Hollywood stardom, making jaws drop as a Bond girl in Never Say Never Again. Her career trajectory was as sleek as her ’70s hair.
These days, Kim’s still gracing screens, though she’s equally devoted to animal rights. Fifty years later, she’s proving age is just a number in Hollywood.
Her love for the limelight and animal advocacy keeps her busy. Bond girls might age, but the sass stays evergreen.
Barbra Streisand: Barbra, The Legend
Barbra Streisand is a name synonymous with success. She transitioned seamlessly from singing Funny Girl to starring in iconic flicks like The Way We Were.
Although she’s a bit of a hermit now, she turned up at the 2019 Oscars just to keep everyone guessing. When Barbra speaks, the world listens.
Her legendary career shows no signs of dimming. If anything, she’s the celestial body other stars orbit around.
Ann-Margret: Sweden’s Spiciest Import
Ann-Margret brought charm to the big screen in Bye Bye Birdie and Viva Las Vegas. The ’70s were her oyster, and she feasted on fame.
She’s still acting, popping up in Netflix’s The Kominsky Method and Syfy’s Happy!. Elvis may have left the building, but Ann-Margret is still here.
With Golden Globes and a timeless smile, she proves the journey from pin-up to powerhouse is paved with talent.
Billie Jean King: Smashing More Than Tennis Balls
Billie Jean King wasn’t just a tennis pro—she was a barrier-breaking icon. Defeating Bobby Riggs in 1973’s “Battle of the Sexes” was just another Tuesday for her.
She came out as gay in 1981 and hasn’t stopped inspiring since. With medals and accolades galore, Billie’s career is a grand slam in every sense.
She’s proof that smashing records and stereotypes is the ultimate ace. Tennis was only the beginning for Billie.
Linda Evans: Dynasty Diva Turned Wellness Guru
Linda Evans ruled the small screen as Krystle Carrington on Dynasty, where big hair and bigger drama reigned supreme. She was the queen of ’80s catfights.
After Dynasty, Linda traded scripts for self-care, opening fitness centers and selling futuristic face masks. She kept busy redefining beauty and wellness.
Today, Linda embraces alternative healing and a quieter life. Whether it’s glam or granola, Linda’s always leading the trend.
Alison Arngrim: The Villain Everyone Loved to Hate
Alison Arngrim terrorized viewers as the spoiled brat Nellie Oleson on Little House on the Prairie. She made being mean look hilariously fun.
Off-screen, she transformed that hate into humor, using stand-up comedy to poke fun at her infamous role. She even wrote a tell-all book about it.
Now, Alison is a vocal activist for AIDS awareness and child abuse prevention. From prairie terror to modern-day hero, she’s nailed every role.
Maureen McCormick: Marcia Brady’s Rollercoaster Ride
As Marcia Brady on The Brady Bunch, Maureen McCormick was the poster child for perfection. But behind the scenes, her life wasn’t quite as picture-perfect.
After battling personal demons, Maureen found redemption through marriage and reality TV. She’s proven she’s more than just Marcia with a Brady smile.
These days, Maureen juggles celebrity challenges and advocacy work. Her story is proof that even America’s sweetheart can rise from the ashes.
Teri Garr: Comedy’s Charming Chameleon
Teri Garr stole hearts in Young Frankenstein as Inga, and kept the laughs rolling in hits like Tootsie and Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the ’90s, Teri transitioned from the big screen to a quieter life. But her legacy of laughter endures.
She remains an inspiration, proving that resilience and humor are a winning combination. Teri’s charm is as timeless as her films.
Cicely Tyson: A Lifetime of Excellence
Cicely Tyson lit up the screen in Sounder and shined on Broadway. She broke barriers and garnered two Emmys for The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman.
In her later years, she stole scenes in The Help and How to Get Away with Murder. Cicely’s talent only deepened with time.
Although she passed away in 2021, her 60-year career and groundbreaking roles cement her as a Hollywood legend. Cicely’s star will never dim.
Jane Fonda: Fitness, Activism, and Fabulousness
Jane Fonda flexed her acting chops in Klute and Coming Home while becoming a workout video queen. Who else could make aerobics a cultural phenomenon?
In between squats, Jane became an outspoken activist. Whether it’s political causes or climate change, she’s always on the frontlines of change.
Still acting and still advocating, Jane is as vibrant as ever. From leotards to activism, she’s made every stage of life iconic.
Goldie Hawn: The Eternal Sunshine
Goldie Hawn brought her signature giggle and golden glow to films like Private Benjamin and Overboard. She made comedy look effortless.
Today, Goldie splits her time between acting and her MindUP Foundation, which promotes mental health. She’s still spreading joy wherever she goes.
Whether on screen or in the real world, Goldie is the embodiment of lighthearted charm. Her name is literal cinematic gold.
Olivia Newton-John: From Sandy to Superstar
Olivia Newton-John electrified audiences as Sandy in Grease, then cruised into a music career with hits like “Physical.” She was every ’70s dream girl.
In recent years, Olivia has bravely battled cancer while championing wellness through her foundation. She continues to inspire with her resilience.
Her iconic roles and advocacy work have made her an enduring symbol of strength and grace. She’ll always be our Sandy.
Lynda Carter: Wonder Woman Forever
Lynda Carter twirled into fame as Wonder Woman, inspiring an entire generation of girls to grab their lassos and dream big.
She parlayed her superhero status into music, releasing albums and touring. Off-stage, she’s a fierce advocate for women’s rights and social causes.
Lynda’s superpowers extend beyond the screen. She’s proof that once a Wonder Woman, always a Wonder Woman.
Pam Grier: The Queen of Blaxploitation
Pam Grier slayed as a bold, butt-kicking heroine in films like Foxy Brown and Coffy. She redefined what it meant to be a leading lady.
Today, Pam still dazzles on screen and uses her platform to support cancer awareness. She’s as fierce and fabulous as ever.
Pam’s legacy as an icon of empowerment and style is unmatched. She’s a cinematic queen for the ages.
Cher: The Goddess of Pop
Cher ruled the ’70s with her outlandish outfits and powerful vocals. She didn’t just break the mold—she set it on fire.
Fast forward to today, and Cher is still slaying stages and Twitter timelines. Her voice and sass remain unmatched.
Whether she’s singing, acting, or tweeting, Cher is living proof that legends never fade—they just keep dazzling.
Diana Ross: Supreme Then, Supreme Now
Diana Ross captivated audiences as the lead singer of The Supremes before dominating the charts as a solo artist. She made glam look effortless.
Today, Diana is still a powerhouse performer, belting out classics and filling arenas. Her charisma is as legendary as her hits.
With a career spanning decades, Diana remains a beacon of talent and style. She’s the definition of timeless.
Debbie Harry: Punk Rock’s First Lady
Debbie Harry rocked the music world as Blondie’s frontwoman, delivering hits like Heart of Glass and redefining cool with her edgy style and iconic voice.
Today, Debbie continues to perform, proving that punk isn’t just a phase—it’s a lifelong attitude. She’s as fierce as ever, both on stage and off.
Her legacy as a trailblazer in music and fashion is untouchable. Debbie didn’t follow trends; she created them.
Susan Dey: From Partridge to Primetime
Susan Dey rose to fame as Laurie Partridge in The Partridge Family, charming audiences with her wholesome wit and musical chops.
After her sitcom days, Susan tackled more serious roles, earning accolades for her work in L.A. Law. She showed she wasn’t just a sitcom sweetheart.
Now retired from acting, Susan enjoys a quieter life. While off-screen, her place in TV history remains secure.
Jacqueline Bisset: The Elegant Screen Siren
Jacqueline Bisset became a global sensation with films like The Deep and Day for Night. Her beauty and talent were an unbeatable combination.
Still acting today, Jacqueline graces screens with the same elegance that made her a star. She’s proof that sophistication never goes out of style.
Her career spans decades, but her allure remains timeless. Jacqueline is the epitome of Hollywood grace.
Farrah Fawcett: The Golden Girl of the ’70s
Farrah Fawcett’s feathered hair and dazzling smile made her the ultimate ’70s poster girl, thanks to her role in Charlie’s Angels.
Farrah’s legacy lives on despite her untimely passing in 2009. She remains a symbol of beauty, talent, and resilience.
Her influence on pop culture is undeniable. Farrah’s impact goes beyond her famous locks—it’s etched in Hollywood history.
Catherine Deneuve: France’s Cinematic Treasure
Catherine Deneuve brought French elegance to films like The Umbrellas of Cherbourg and Belle de Jour, making her an international icon.
She continues acting, proving that her talent and charm are as captivating as ever. Catherine remains a mainstay of European cinema.
Her career and beauty are timeless, reminding the world that sophistication is always in vogue.
Raquel Welch: Glamour and Grit
Raquel Welch’s bombshell status was solidified with One Million Years B.C., but she didn’t rest on her looks—she had the talent to match.
Even now, Raquel remains an icon of glamour, proving that age is no barrier to beauty. Her presence still commands attention.
With a career that spans film, stage, and television, Raquel’s legacy is as impressive as her statuesque figure.
Shirley MacLaine: A Star with Cosmic Energy
Shirley MacLaine charmed audiences in films like Terms of Endearment and became just as famous for her spiritual pursuits.
Today, Shirley balances acting with writing about her metaphysical beliefs, proving she’s always been in a league of her own.
Her mix of wit, talent, and cosmic curiosity makes her a Hollywood treasure. Shirley’s stardom is otherworldly.
Sally Field: America’s Sweetheart Forever
Sally Field won hearts in Norma Rae and Smokey and the Bandit, showing she could do comedy, drama, and everything in between.
Still acting today, Sally continues to steal scenes and garner awards. Her talent knows no bounds, and neither does her charm.
Her journey from TV star to Oscar winner is legendary. Sally Field is a national treasure in every sense.
Jane Seymour: Dr. Quinn’s Reign
Jane Seymour became an international sensation as Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman, but her acting chops extend far beyond frontier life.
Still gracing screens today, Jane balances acting with art and philanthropy. She’s as multifaceted as the diamonds she endorses.
With her iconic beauty and talent, Jane continues to prove she’s a star for all seasons.
Sigourney Weaver: Sci-Fi’s Leading Lady
Sigourney Weaver redefined sci-fi heroines as Ripley in Alien, proving that women could kick just as much alien butt as the guys.
She’s still commanding screens, from blockbusters like Avatar to indie gems. Sigourney’s versatility knows no bounds.
Her place in cinema history is secured. Sigourney’s strength and talent continue to inspire generations of fans.
Lily Tomlin: The Queen of Quirk
Lily Tomlin made audiences laugh in 9 to 5 and brought her signature wit to every role she touched. Comedy was her playground.
Today, Lily shines in Grace and Frankie, proving that humor only gets better with age. She’s a master of reinvention.
Her comedic genius and charm are as sharp as ever. Lily Tomlin is a legend who never goes out of style.
Meryl Streep: The Actress of Our Time
Meryl Streep’s career exploded in the late ’70s with Kramer vs. Kramer, setting the stage for decades of award-winning performances.
Still reigning as Hollywood’s greatest, Meryl continues to deliver powerhouse performances that leave audiences in awe.
Her ability to disappear into roles is unmatched. Meryl isn’t just an actress—she’s a force of nature.
Carly Simon: The Soundtrack of a Generation
Carly Simon’s hits like “You’re So Vain” made her a ’70s sensation, weaving poetry into pop and capturing hearts worldwide.
Today, Carly continues to perform and write, proving her creativity is as boundless as ever. Her voice remains iconic.
Her songs are timeless anthems of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Carly Simon is forever etched in musical history.
Helen Mirren: The Queen of Acting
Helen Mirren dazzled audiences in films and on stage throughout the ’70s, building a reputation for her regal talent and beauty.
Still a sought-after actress, Helen embraces roles that challenge and captivate, from period dramas to quirky comedies.
Her career is the gold standard for actors everywhere. Helen Mirren is the ultimate leading lady.
Joan Collins: Dynasty’s Drama Queen
Joan Collins made waves as Alexis Carrington in Dynasty, delivering iconic one-liners and unforgettable looks. She was drama personified.
Today, Joan remains fabulous, penning books and appearing in films. Her wit and glamour are as sharp as ever.
Her influence on fashion, drama, and fabulousness is legendary. Joan Collins is eternal.
Bonnie Raitt: The Blues Legend
Bonnie Raitt blended blues and rock into soulful perfection, earning critical acclaim and a devoted fan base throughout the ’70s.
She continues to tour and release music, proving her voice and guitar skills only get better with age.
Bonnie’s talent and authenticity make her a standout in any decade. She’s the real deal.
Dolly Parton: The Queen of Country
Dolly Parton charmed the world with her voice, wit, and rhinestone-studded outfits. She’s a country music legend and a cultural icon.
Still creating music and spreading joy, Dolly’s philanthropic work and talent make her a national treasure.
Her legacy is as big as her hair. Dolly Parton is a one-of-a-kind superstar.
Faye Dunaway: The Face of Drama
Faye Dunaway captivated audiences with powerful performances in Chinatown and Network. She made intensity look glamorous.
Still active in the industry, Faye remains a force to be reckoned with. Her performances are always compelling.
Her talent and beauty are ageless. Faye Dunaway is a Hollywood institution.
Patty Duke: A Life of Resilience
Patty Duke shined in The Miracle Worker and later transitioned to TV roles, proving her range as an actress.
Her struggles with bipolar disorder became a platform for advocacy, showing her courage went beyond the screen.
Though she passed in 2016, her legacy as an actress and advocate remains an inspiration.
Jessica Lange: Hauntingly Talented
Jessica Lange broke through with King Kong and became one of the most respected actresses of her time.
Still captivating audiences in shows like American Horror Story, Jessica’s talent is as haunting as it is brilliant.
Her career is a masterclass in longevity and excellence. Jessica Lange is an acting powerhouse.
Gloria Gaynor: Disco’s Reigning Diva
Gloria Gaynor had us all singing “I Will Survive,” becoming the anthem queen of the disco era.
She continues to perform, keeping disco alive and audiences dancing. Her energy and voice remain unmatched.
Her resilience and talent are a testament to her legacy. Gloria Gaynor is the ultimate survivor.
Beverly Johnson: The Trailblazing Beauty
Beverly Johnson made history as the first Black model to grace the cover of Vogue, shattering barriers in fashion.
Today, she’s an advocate and entrepreneur, proving beauty and brains are the ultimate combination.
Her contributions to fashion and culture are groundbreaking. Beverly is a true icon.
Annette Funicello: Beach Blanket Star
Annette Funicello became America’s sweetheart with her roles in beach party films and as a beloved Mouseketeer.
Though she battled MS in her later years, Annette’s spirit and smile continued to shine until her passing in 2013.
Her charm and legacy as a pioneer in pop culture endure. Annette remains a beloved icon.
Tina Turner: The Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll
Tina Turner electrified the world with her powerhouse voice and hits like Proud Mary, redefining what it meant to be a rock star in the ’70s.
Even in her later years, Tina continued to captivate audiences with her performances, proving that her energy and talent are unstoppable forces of nature.
Though she retired from performing, her influence remains immense. Tina Turner isn’t just a singer—she’s a legend whose legacy will roll on forever.
Stevie Nicks: The Enchanting Songstress
Stevie Nicks, with her mystical vibe and ethereal voice, turned Fleetwood Mac into a global phenomenon, enchanting fans with hits like Rhiannon and Landslide.
Today, Stevie continues to perform and inspire a new generation of artists. Her iconic style and voice remain as captivating as ever.
Stevie’s legacy is a tapestry of talent, magic, and resilience. She’s not just a rock star—she’s an enduring symbol of artistry.
Barbi Benton: The Beauty of Both Screens
Barbi Benton charmed audiences as a regular on Hee Haw and made a splash in Playboy, proving she could shine in both comedy and glamor.
Though she stepped back from the limelight to focus on family, Barbi’s presence in pop culture remains unforgettable, thanks to her radiant personality.
Her multifaceted career showcased her versatility, and her lasting charm continues to captivate those who remember her golden days.
Cherie Currie: The Runaways’ Firebrand
Cherie Currie burst onto the scene as the lead singer of The Runaways, pioneering female-fronted rock and leaving a trail of iconic performances in her wake.
After leaving the band, Cherie dabbled in acting and eventually found her niche as a chainsaw artist. Yes, chainsaws—she’s that cool.
Her fearless attitude and lasting impact on music and art make her a true rock ’n’ roll trailblazer. Cherie proves that passion never fades.