Christopher Walken celebrated his 82nd birthday on March 31, 2025.
Born in Queens, New York, on March 31, 1943, Walken has had a remarkable career spanning over seven decades. Known for his distinctive voice and versatile performances,
Ahead of his 82nd birthday, the Academy Award winner spoke with PEOPLE exclusively about the second season of Severance and what’s next for his career. So, when it comes to his future aspirations, he says: “I’m doing what I’ve always done.”
“People think that actors make a lot of choices. I’m not sure that they do. I certainly don’t,” he explains. “I take the job, the next best thing, because that’s what I do. I go to work.”
“So what comes next? I have no idea, but I never have. Generally, when I finish a job, I don’t know what’s coming next,” he continued.
One thing he knows for certain is what he has been anticipating in 2025. “I’m looking forward to being healthy and staying alive,” he added with a slight chuckle.
Christopher Walken has appeared in over 100 films and TV shows, earning accolades such as an Academy Award for The Deer Hunter (1978) and nominations for various other prestigious awards.
Walken’s career is marked by iconic roles in films like Catch Me If You Can, Batman Returns, and his quirky dance performance in Fatboy Slim’s “Weapon of Choice” music video.
His unique personality extends off-screen, with anecdotes such as his summer job as a lion tamer and amusing himself on movie sets by faking his birthday.
Despite his fame, Walken reportedly prefers simplicity in celebrating his birthday, often choosing to stay home. His grounded approach reflects his enduring charm both as an actor and as a person.
OyeYeah Picks Christopher Walken’s Top 10 Iconic Performances
Here are Christopher Walken’s top 10 works, based on critical acclaim and iconic performances:
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Walken’s Academy Award-winning performance as Nick in this Vietnam War drama is widely regarded as one of his finest roles. -
His portrayal of Frank Abagnale Sr., a complex and emotional character, earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. -
Walken’s chilling performance as Don Vincenzo Coccotti in this Quentin Tarantino-penned crime thriller is a standout. -
His role as Hans Kieslowski, a quirky and reflective character in this dark comedy, showcases his unique humor and depth. -
In this Stephen King adaptation, Walken plays Johnny Smith, a man with psychic abilities, delivering a haunting and intense performance. -
As Frank White, a drug lord with a moral agenda, Walken delivers a commanding performance in this neo-noir crime film. -
Though his role as Captain Koons is brief, his monologue about a gold watch is unforgettable and iconic. -
Walken shines as Max Shreck, a manipulative businessman in Tim Burton’s gothic superhero sequel. -
His portrayal of the menacing Headless Horseman adds to the eerie atmosphere of this Tim Burton-directed film. -
Playing Brad Whitewood Sr., a criminal and abusive father, Walken delivers one of his most terrifying and nuanced performances.
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