Jane Fonda has long been a vocal advocate for social causes, championing climate action, racial justice, and equality for women.
The 88-year-old star appeared on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Wednesday, where she spoke passionately about the importance of political engagement — and looked remarkably youthful while doing so.
Jane joined host Stephen Colbert wearing a black long-sleeved top emblazoned with the word “Resist” in glittering letters, a nod to her decades of activism. She paired the statement shirt with black trousers and gold earrings, while her silver hair was styled in tight curls.
A committed activist, Jane is especially outspoken about climate justice and the rights of women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, Indigenous peoples, and marginalized communities. Her outfit also referenced her recent efforts to revive the Committee for the First Amendment.
The organization was originally founded in 1947 in response to McCarthyism, with Jane’s father — legendary actor Henry Fonda — involved in its formation. Growing up in the spotlight as the daughter of the Oscar-winning star of The Grapes of Wrath, 12 Angry Men, and On Golden Pond, Jane later appeared alongside him in the latter film.
A style and beauty icon for generations, Jane has previously spoken about lessons she learned from Hollywood greats. “I feel better now than I did when I was younger. I’m more confident,” she told Marie Claire.
She recalled how Katharine Hepburn influenced her perspective while filming On Golden Pond. Hepburn once took Jane’s face in her hands and asked what she wanted to express to the world through her appearance. “She helped me understand that being aware of yourself isn’t vanity — it’s purposeful,” Jane explained.
Jane has also credited French screen legend Catherine Deneuve with teaching her skincare basics. Speaking to Glamour, she said her routine focuses on hydration and sun protection, especially as her skin has become drier with age. Deneuve once advised her to rotate skincare products rather than relying on a single cream — advice Jane still follows.
Despite facing serious health challenges over the years, including breast cancer, osteoporosis, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Jane says she is now prioritizing wellness and balance.
“Looking after your health is crucial,” she told Marie Claire. “For me, that means staying physically active, eating fresh food, and getting enough sleep — especially as you get older.”
Reflecting on her life and legacy, she added: “I’ve been through a lot, but I’m healthy at my core. That allows me to keep contributing. When I’m gone, I want to know I did everything I could.”
