Happy birthday! Barbara Hershey turns 78 today

By Lori Macatee
Washington
Last updated on February 5, 2026

The iconic and legendary actress turns 78 on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026.

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Barbara Hershey is celebrating her 78th birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, she is one of the most acclaimed actresses of her generation.

Popular actress Barbara Hershey (Black Swan, Hannah and Her Sisters, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of herself hidden from view. At 78th birthday, she remains a woman of many facets.

Hershey, a cultural icon

Born Barbara Lynn Herzstein in Hollywood on February 5, 1948, her career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in American history. Hershey's not just a great actress, she's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business woman. At this point in her career, there seems to be little Barbara hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Barbara Hershey as she promises more to come. After all, she's only 78.

Happy Birthday, Barbara, you're the best!