The Final And Almost-Final Takes
In life, it gets to a point where you have to move on to do other things. Something the Hollywood greats have had to do. Some leave willingly, others due to age, and others… life is cut short. Here are all the accounts of their memorable last times performing—the final and almost-final takes.
Peter O’Toole In For Greater Glory: The True Story Of Cristiada
In his late 70s, O’Toole delivered an inspiring performance in the movie For Greater Glory: The True Story of Cristiada (2012). This picture chronicles the Cristeros War (1926-1929), where Mexican Catholics fought against the government’s anti-religious policies. Peter O’Toole delivers a powerful rendition as Father Christopher.
Peter O’Toole In For Greater Glory: The True Story Of Cristiada (Cont.)
You see, in the heat of all the anti-religious drama, Peter O’Toole’s character, Father Christopher’s life was taken by the Federales. This was just the beginning because it sparked a rebellion that ended with the restoration of religious freedom in Mexico. Many got to see his emotional depth, dignity, and…
Peter O’Toole In For Greater Glory: The True Story Of Cristiada (Cont.)
…a commanding presence, even in the brief moments he was in this $10 million-selling movie. This film was released on July 1, 2012, and 9 days later, on July 10, 2012, O’Toole gave a statement that he was retiring. Two more pictures were released after his retirement and departure.
Robin Williams In Night At the Museum: Secret Of The Tomb
In this movie, Robin Williams is President Theodore Roosevelt, who is witty, charming, and warm. In the farewell scene between Theodore Roosevelt and Larry Daley (Ben Stiller), Roosevelt gives Larry heartfelt advice and encouragement.
Robin Williams In Night At the Museum: Secret Of The Tomb (Cont.)
He expressed his pride in Larry’s growth and bravery. He tells Larry that he has been a great leader and that he believes in him, leaving Larry deeply moved and inspired. The film debuted on December 19, 2014, and about four months later, the world received the devastating news.
Robin Williams In Night At the Museum: Secret Of The Tomb (Cont.)
Mr Williams had taken his own life on August 11, 2014. Not many people expected this movie to be his last, but well, it was. Even after his passing, his voice was heard in the movie Absolutely Anything, whose production ended on May 12. It was released posthumously in 2015.
Robin Williams' Final Role in 'Absolutely Anything' by @HOLLYWOOD
Gene Hackman In Welcome To Mooseport
Ever wondered how a Hollywood heavyweight—six decades and multiple awards—gracefully exits the stage? Here it is. Gene Hackman’s retirement in 2004 was the masterclass we didn’t know we needed. Hackman plays Monroe “Eagle” Cole, a former US President who retires to his vacation home in Mooseport, Maine. Then…
Welcome to Mooseport by FoxConnect
Gene Hackman In Welcome To Mooseport (Cont.)
When the town’s mayor dies, the town council convinces Cole to run for mayor, hoping his presence will boost tourism and save his house from being sold in his divorce settlement. Cole’s campaign sets off a quirky rivalry with the local hardware store owner, who also vies for mayor.
Welcome to Mooseport by FoxConnect
Gene Hackman In Welcome To Mooseport (Cont.)
Cole wins. Hackman’s retirement was medical based because he stated “The straw that broke the camel’s back was actually a stress test that I took in New York. The doctor advised me that my heart wasn’t in the kind of shape that I should be putting it under any stress”.
Welcome to Mooseport by FoxConnect
Daniel Day-Lewis In Phantom Thread
Daniel Day-Lewis didn’t just retire once, but twice. The first mic drop was in 1997 to 2000, the second one 2017 to 2024. Oh, the first semi-retirement was after The Boxer. He left to pursue his woodworking passion. He also became a showmaker in Italy, then back to film.
Phantom Thread | Daniel Day-Lewis' Quotable Confrontations by Focus Features
Daniel Day-Lewis In Phantom Thread (Cont.)
When he did his final film, Phantom Thread in 2017, he blew people’s minds. The film is set in 1950s London and follows Reynolds Woodcock, a renowned fashion designer, who takes a young waitress named Alma as his muse. The story explores their complex and tumultuous relationship.
Phantom Thread | Daniel Day-Lewis' Quotable Confrontations by Focus Features
Daniel Day-Lewis In Phantom Thread (Cont.)
The ending is unexpected and it’ll leave you with a lot to think about control and love in the relationship. This role got him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Guess what? The guy seems to be back, but for now, his role in Phantom Thread is his swansong.
Phantom Thread | Daniel Day-Lewis' Quotable Confrontations by Focus Features
Sean Connery In The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen
Mr Connery announced that he was retiring from acting when he received his Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006. Imagine being so cool that you become synonymous with James Bond, then casually walk away from Hollywood? Sean Connery did exactly that.
THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN Clip -
Sean Connery In The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen (Cont.)
His final film in 2003 was an exit met with so much stress. First, the movie’s special effects set failed. Second, there was friction between Connery and the director, Stephen Norrington. Third, in an effort to salvage the movie through editing, there was more stress.
Sean Connery In The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen (Cont.)
This stress was enough for Connery to call it quits. After retiring, roles came rolling in, but he said no to all, including the role of Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter. The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen concludes with a mix of resolution and open-ended possibilities.
Jack Nicholson In How Do You Know
Jack Nicholson bid farewell to acting with this romantic comedy, portraying Charles Madison, a ruthless yet charming business tycoon. The film’s lighthearted tone allowed Nicholson to flex his comedic muscles while retaining the gravitas that made him a legend in Hollywood. It marked the end of a 60-year career.
How Do You Know (2010) - You're a Moron! Scene (1/10) | Movieclips by Movieclips
Jack Nicholson In How Do You Know (Cont.)
Nicholson’s exit from stardom was considered an unofficial retirement. This is the kind someone leaves without making any statement. You know what, even unofficially, he has not been in any film for more than ten years. When his friend spoke about it, this is what he had to say.
How Do You Know #2 Movie CLIP - Running From Bad News (2010) HD by Movieclips
Jack Nicholson In How Do You Know (Cont.)
“A friend of mine wanted to put him in a movie. And he had a conversation with him. But Jack says, ‘I don’t want to do it.’ He goes, ‘You know what I did today? I sat under a tree, and I read a book.’ That sounds like Jack”.
The Official HOW DO YOU KNOW Trailer by Sony Pictures Entertainment
Heath Ledger In The Imaginarium Of Doctor Parnassus
Before Heath Ledger kicked the bucket in 2009, his final role was in The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus as Tony. He was almost done filming this surreal fantasy film based on a man who can guide others’ imaginations through a magical mirror.
Heath Ledger and Friends - The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus behind the scenes by Margaret X
Heath Ledger In The Imaginarium Of Doctor Parnassus (Cont.)
Tragically, after Ledger passed away mid-production, it led Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell to complete his part. FYI, this was a literal plot twist that kept the film alive. Their collaboration honored Ledger’s performance, and it ensured the film became a heartfelt tribute to his immense talent.
The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus - [ 2009 ] - Heath Ledger by Soumya Nath
Heath Ledger In The Imaginarium Of Doctor Parnassus (Cont.)
The story, exploring themes of morality and imagination, allowed Ledger to showcase his magnetic charm. The credits even read “A film from Heath Ledger and friends”. Released posthumously, the film became a poignant reminder of his brilliance, alongside his legendary turn as the Joker in The Dark Knight.
Heath Ledger and Friends - The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus behind the scenes by Margaret X
Burt Reynolds In The Last Movie Star
In this reflective drama, Burt Reynolds played Vic Edwards, an aging film icon who is invited to a small film festival in Nashville. The plot follows Vic’s life as he reminisces about his past glory, comparing it to his present reality. In a way, the role mirrored Reynolds’ own journey.
THE LAST MOVIE STAR Official Trailer (2018) Burt Reynolds, Ariel Winter Movie HD by ONE Media
Burt Reynolds In The Last Movie Star (Cont.)
The movie got a 7/10 rating on IMDb and a 61% on Rotten Tomatoes, but one thing is clear. Reynolds’ performance was raw and enchanting. The last scene seemed to be somewhat a reflection of what was about to ensue.
THE LAST MOVIE STAR Official Trailer (2018) Burt Reynolds, Ariel Winter Movie HD by ONE Media
Burt Reynolds In The Last Movie Star (Cont.)
It ends with Edwards being honored in the festival as he watches all his old movies to commemorate his achievements in film. Because of his demise, he missed appearing in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. So much so that The Last Movie Star remains a fitting swansong.
THE LAST MOVIE STAR Official Trailer (2018) Burt Reynolds, Ariel Winter Movie HD by ONE Media
Marlon Brando In The Score
Marlon Brando’s final film role was Max, a seasoned criminal mastermind, in this gripping heist thriller. And he shared his swansong with other greats—Robert De Niro and Edward Norton. In the final scene, Max confronts Nick Wells (Robert De Niro) about the heist. What heist you ask?
🚩 MARLON BRANDO & ROBERT De NIRO in THE SCORE (2001) Dir. Frank Oz by Darwin Pictures
Marlon Brando In The Score (Cont.)
The heist mission is of a valuable French scepter from a Montreal Customs House. The scepter is worth millions and Nick Wells is hired by Max to carry out the heist. Nick, an experienced thief, collaborates with a young accomplice, Jackie Teller (Edward Norton).
The Score (6/9) Movie CLIP - Old Loyalties (2001) HD by Movieclips
Marlon Brando In The Score (Cont.)
Did you know that he had retired earlier in the 1980s, then came back? His comeback was met with some friction with the director of A Dry White Season. In his last days, he loved spending time with Michael Jackson before respiratory failure took him away.
A Scene from A DRY WHITE SEASON by Baker & Taylor
Philip Seymour Hoffman In The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2
If you are a Hunger Games fan, when you watch the movie’s part 2, you’ll notice that Philip Seymour Hoffman is missing in the final scenes. Well, this was because the guy had kicked the bucket, and law enforcement ruled it substance-related.
The Hunger Games Cast Reflects on Philip Seymour Hoffman's Final Film by Entertainment Tonight
Philip Seymour Hoffman In The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 (Cont.)
Despite this loss, filmmakers completed his scenes with creative rewriting and editing to ensure his presence remained integral to the story. Here, he played Plutarch Heavensbee, the Head Gamemaker who secretly aids the rebellion against the Capitol. Plutarch is a complex character who initially appears to be an antagonist, but…
The Hunger Games Cast Reflects on Philip Seymour Hoffman's Final Film by Entertainment Tonight
Philip Seymour Hoffman In The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2 (Cont.)
He is later revealed to be a key ally to Katniss Everdeen and the rebels. His role orchestrated events for the success of the rebellion while maintaining his cover as a loyal servant of President Snow. Before his passing he was also involved in other projects, but life said, “nope”!
The Hunger Games Cast Reflects on Philip Seymour Hoffman's Final Film by Entertainment Tonight
Chadwick Boseman In Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
The face synonymous with the Black Panther Franchise, Chadwick Boseman, had his last take in front of the camera as Levee Green in this adaptation of August Wilson’s play Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom. His role was passionate but troubled, moving through a prejudiced world.
Chadwick Boseman In Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (Cont.)
The film goes deeper into themes of ambition and identity, with Boseman’s character constantly surpassing his incredible acting and emotional range. At the very end, we get to witness him deliver a powerful and emotional monologue. Levee confronts the other band members about their differing views on God and fate.
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom Trailer (Netflix) by hollywoodstreams
Chadwick Boseman In Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom (Cont.)
Released months after his untimely demise, the movie became a tribute to his extraordinary talent and resilience, as Boseman filmed while privately battling cancer. He posthumously won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance for the What If...?
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom Trailer (Netflix) by hollywoodstreams
Audrey Hepburn In Always And Gardens Of The World With Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn’s final film role was as Hap, a celestial guide, in Steven Spielberg’s romantic fantasy Always. However, the final time we all saw her on TV was on a one-hour special that birthed a PBS documentary series, Gardens of the World with Audrey Hepburn.
Audrey Hepburn In Always And Gardens Of The World With Audrey Hepburn (Cont.)
Her graceful performance in Always radiated warmth and wisdom, perfectly personifying the elegance that defined her career. In the PSB series, she candidly took us through the history of gardens and flowers. She bid the world bye just four days before the show debuted on PBS.
Audrey Hepburn In Always And Gardens Of The World With Audrey Hepburn (Cont.)
The world really missed her on screen, but the humanitarian and fashion world also did. She had dedicated her later years to humanitarian work, prioritizing causes close to her heart. As a fashion icon, she proudly carried the title, “the third-greatest female screen legend” ranked by the American Film Institute.
Gardens Of The World - Audrey Hepburn by interimages
James Dean In Giant
James Dean’s final scene takes place at a banquet in his honor, where Jett, now a wealthy oil tycoon, is shown to be a lonely, broken man. In a state of inebriation, he makes a spectacle of himself, and this reveals the hollowness of his success.
Official Trailer - GIANT (1956, Rock Hudson, Elizabeth Taylor, James Dean) by Trailer World
James Dean In Giant (Cont.)
The dedication Dean had for the scene had him drunk to make the take realistic. Nick Adams had to step in because Dean mumbled so much, and his demise came in the way before a retake. This scene was dubbed ‘Last Supper’ because it happened right before his tragic end.
James Dean In Giant (Cont.)
Though Dean’s career spanned only three films, his impact on Hollywood remains unforgettable. Giant was the personification of his potential as a leading man and his exit left fans mourning what could have been. His legacy keeps inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers. His name just has that “star” appeal.
Paul Walker In Furious 7
Paul Walker’s final appearance as Brian O’Conner in Furious 7 was a heartfelt farewell. Following his tragic departure during production, the film was completed using CGI and stand-ins by his brothers Caleb and Cody. The ending, featuring a moving tribute, left audiences teary-eyed and celebrated Walker’s enduring legacy.
Paul Walker In Furious 7 (Cont.)
The franchise’s signature action sequences were a perfect showcase for Walker’s charm and athleticism. His character’s touching departure, driving off into the sunset, became one of the most emotional moments in film history. It even inspired the commissioning of the song “See You Again” by Wiz Khalifa and Charlie Puth.
See You Again Ending Scene with Paul Walker | Fast & Furious 7 | CLIP by Boxoffice Movie Scenes
Paul Walker In Furious 7 (Cont.)
Walker’s legacy extends beyond Fast & Furious. He got four films released after he passed on, he achieved a black belt, and his non-profit called Reach Out Worldwide (ROWW) kept his name alive. ROWW was begun after the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Fast. Furious. Kind.
Furious 7 (10/10) Movie CLIP - The Last Ride (2015) HD by Movieclips
Greta Garbo In Two-Faced Woman
This was a case of “When its time, its time” because Greta Garbo didn’t want to retire after Two-Faced Woman. First, the movie did not do really well becoming a critical failure, even though it did really well at the box office. Garbo received a lot of negative reviews.
TWO-FACED WOMAN (1941) Trailer by W. David Lindholm
Greta Garbo In Two-Faced Woman (Cont.)
After the film, Garbo retired from Hollywood at the age of 36, choosing a life of privacy over the spotlight. Despite the lukewarm reception of her final film, her legacy as a star of the silent and early sound eras remains untarnished. Her mystique continues to fascinate fans.
