Legendary Filmmaker Mel Brooks Has the Best Response to Turning 97
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Mel Brooks obviously understands that aging is truly a gift.
The legendary filmmaker and actor turns 97 years old today, June 28, and is celebrating another spin around the sun in his full life, along with yet another accolade he is set to receive this fall.
"First of all, I am very happy to still be alive!" Brooks—whom the the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Monday will receive an honorary Oscar at the 14th Governors Awards in November—shared with PEOPLE.
"But secondly, it is so nice to be recognized by my peers in The Academy over 50 years after my last Oscar," Brooks added. "A long time ago I was given a choice: I had an offer to be working as an apprentice accountant or as a coffee runner in show business. I'm still glad I chose the coffee."
If a refresher is needed on a few career highlights, the Brooklyn-native directed comedy classics such as The Producers (1967), Blazing Saddles (1974), and Spaceballs (1987), as well as starring in dozens of film roles, including Life Stinks (1991), High Anxiety (1977), and Dracula: Dead and Loving It (1995).
He last received an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for The Producers at the 41st Oscars back in 1969.
As one of only 18 EGOT winners, he continues to make waves in the industry, despite having been alive for nearly an entire century.
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And he's not the only one being honored in November. In addition to Brooks, the Academy will also finally present Angela Bassett, as well as and film editor Carol Littleton, with honorary Oscars at this fall's ceremony.
"The Academy's Board of Governors is thrilled to honor four trailblazers who have transformed the film industry and inspired generations of filmmakers and movie fans," Academy President Janet Yang said in a press release issued Monday. "Mel Brooks lights up our hearts with his humor, and his legacy has made a lasting impact on every facet of entertainment."
Though Brooks has long been recognized as a household name, let him also serve as an example that success has no age limit!
Next: Mel Brooks Is Back! 'History of the World Part 2' Cast, Release Date, Trailer and More Details
