Happy birthday! Bob Balaban turns 81 today

By Lori Macatee
Washington
Last updated on August 16, 2026

The iconic and legendary actor turns 81 on Sunday, Aug. 16, 2026.

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Bob Balaban is celebrating his 81st birthday today. As a number of online tributes attest, he is one of the most acclaimed actors of his generation.

Popular actor-author-producer-director Bob Balaban (Moonrise Kingdom, Gosford Park, ...) has always liked to keep a bit of himself hidden from view. At 81st birthday, he remains a man of many facets.

Balaban, a cultural icon

Born Robert Elmer Balaban in Chicago on August 16, 1945, his career spans an arc over many different eras and tastes in American history. Balaban's not just a great actor, he's an inspiration, an icon and a successful business man. At this point in his career, there seems to be little Bob hasn't done.

And we've got a feeling the next 12 months are going to be even bigger and better for Bob Balaban as he promises more to come. After all, he's only 81.

Happy Birthday, Bob, you're the best!