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Ann-Margret just celebrated her 85th birthday on April 28, bringing six decades of iconic performances closer to legendary status. The stage and screen legend is about to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the prestigious 2026 Chita Rivera Awards on May 18.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Birthday Date: Ann-Margret turned 85 on April 28, 2026 (born April 28, 1941)
- Award: 2026 Chita Rivera Awards Lifetime Achievement Award for dance excellence
- Ceremony Date: May 18, 2026 at NYU Skirball Center in New York
- Career Span: Six decades of triumphant performances across stage, film, and television
A Triple-Threat Entertainer’s Remarkable Journey
Ann-Margret has built an unprecedented career as an actress, singer, and dancer since the early 1960s. Her breakthrough roles in musicals like Bye Bye Birdie and Viva Las Vegas (opposite Elvis Presley) established her as Hollywood’s most electrifying talent. The Golden Globe-winning performer brought star power to every stage and screen role she tackled.
Throughout the 1970s, Ann-Margret earned critical acclaim for dramatic work in Carnal Knowledge and Tommy, both earning her Academy Award nominations. Her filmography spans six decades, proving her staying power in entertainment.
Ann-Margret celebrates 85th birthday, receives Lifetime Award at Chita Rivera ceremony
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Five Golden Globes and a Legacy of Awards
Ann-Margret’s trophy case reflects her extraordinary talent. She has won five Golden Globe Awards, one Emmy Award, two Grammy nominations, two Academy Award nominations, and numerous other accolades. The Swedish-born performer was nominated six times for Emmy awards throughout her illustrious career.
Beyond traditional honors, Ann-Margret earned recognition on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her contributions to dance, film, television, and music have influenced generations of performers who admire her vivacious spirit and unmatched talent.
The Chita Rivera Award Honors Her Dance Legacy
The Chita Rivera Awards, celebrating choreographic excellence, selected Ann-Margret for her lifelong commitment to dance on screen and stage. Joe Lanteri, founder and executive director of the New York City Dance Alliance Foundation, praised her work, saying the award celebrates her “electrifying presence” that defined the word “triple threat.”
| Recognition Detail | Information |
| Award Type | Lifetime Achievement Award |
| Award Date | May 18, 2026 |
| Venue | NYU Skirball Center, New York City |
| Criterion | Dance excellence and stage/screen contributions |
The ceremony recognizes the finest choreography on Broadway, off-Broadway, and in film. Ann-Margret’s selection honors her six decades of exceptional performances that redefined what dancers could achieve on camera.
“Ann-Margret is a singular icon whose electrifying presence has defined ‘triple threat’ for stage, film, and television. She has inspired generations of dancers to perform with the same passion and vivacious spirit that has defined her remarkable six-decade career.”
— Joe Lanteri, Founder and Executive Director, New York City Dance Alliance Foundation
Birthday Celebration and Future Honors
For her 85th birthday, Ann-Margret revealed surprises were planned by friends and loved ones. According to an exclusive interview with Parade, the performer said she looked forward to celebrations she didn’t fully know about in advance. She confirmed her favorite tradition, stating simply, “I love cake.”
Beyond birthday festivities, Ann-Margret will also be honored by the USO this year for her decades of unwavering support for U.S. troops. The 85th anniversary year for the military organization coincides with her milestone birthday.
What’s Next for the Eternal Icon?
Even at 85, Ann-Margret remains active and engaged with new projects. A biographical film starring Lindsay Lohan as the legendary performer is in development, with Ann-Margret approving the project. She expressed admiration for Lohan’s talent, saying she’s “full of talent” and interested in seeing what the film brings to her incredible life story.
Ann-Margret maintains her health through regular walking with friends, working with a personal trainer, and watching her diet. She credits her happy disposition and strong social connections as keys to her wellness. Her recovery from a broken elbow sustained in a recent home fall demonstrates her resilience and determination to stay active.
Sources
- Playbill – Comprehensive coverage of the 2026 Chita Rivera Awards announcement
- Parade Magazine – Exclusive interview with Ann-Margret about her 85th birthday plans
- Broadway News – Details on Ann-Margret’s lifetime achievement recognition
