Sally Jessy Raphael, the iconic talk show host, is relishing in the joy of being called “cute again” as she celebrates her 90th birthday. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Raphael exudes the same feisty and fabulous energy that has defined her career over the decades, revealing insights into her vibrant life at 90.
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Reflecting on her milestone birthday festivities, Raphael shares, “We went to Paris, my favorite city. And I went to my old haunts. I won’t tell you what they are because then they’d be everybody’s old haunts.” She reminisces about the enjoyable time spent exploring museums and the city with friends, highlighting the importance of cherishing memorable moments.
At 90, Raphael acknowledges the intriguing perceptions of age and appearances, noting, “It’s really interesting being 90 because if you dye your hair and you don’t have any veins in your legs, then people say you look young.” Embracing the term “cute,” she muses on how attitudes towards aging can shift, with people often referring to older individuals as endearingly cute, a sentiment she now embraces.
Through her engaging Instagram posts, Raphael stays connected with her audience, sharing candid glimpses into her past achievements and current adventures. She recognises the unique advantages that come with aging, such as increased attention and certain privileges, including humorous anecdotes about airport wheelchairs and misconceptions about intimacy at 90.
Despite societal expectations, Raphael remains candid about her romantic pursuits, revealing, “I’ve settled on somebody.” While navigating the dating scene at an older age can present challenges, she emphasises the importance of making an effort to cultivate relationships and companionship, debunking stereotypes and highlighting the freedom that comes with age.
In both her personal and professional life, Raphael exudes a sense of vitality and enthusiasm, expressing her desire to continue working and exploring new opportunities. As a trailblazer in the talk show industry, Raphael made history as the first female host of an audience-participation show, setting the stage for future media personalities like Oprah Winfrey.
Reflecting on the media landscape, Raphael touches on the contrasting attitudes towards age and experience in different countries, emphasising the value of wisdom and perspective. She points out the prevalence of youthful figures in American media compared to other regions, underscoring the need for a deeper appreciation of life experience and knowledge.
As she navigates the ever-evolving entertainment industry, Raphael remains resilient and determined, undeterred by challenges such as concerns over insurance or perceptions of age. With a steadfast commitment to her craft and a refreshing perspective on aging, she continues to inspire audiences with her wit, wisdom, and unwavering spirit at 90.
With her infectious energy and timeless charm, Sally Jessy Raphael stands as a beacon of resilience and positivity, showcasing the beauty of embracing every age with grace and humour. As she embarks on new adventures and embraces the richness of life at 90, her legacy continues to shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment and beyond.