At 56, Adam Sandler Isn’t Afraid Of Getting Older Since He's 'Gotten Much Better At Life’
Feb 21, 2023 by apost team
Adam Sandler is known for being a pretty funny guy and has starred in many comedies to prove just how hilarious he truly is. From a young age, Sandler showed an interest in comedy. He began performing stand-up comedy in his teens and attended New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. While at NYU, he honed his craft and performed regularly at comedy clubs.
The actor has made a successful career for himself, finding his footing as a cast member on "Saturday Night Live" from 1990 until 1995 before going on to star in a plethora of box office hits. Some of his most notable movies include "Billy Madison," "Happy Gilmore," "The Wedding Singer" and "50 First Dates."
In addition to his acting career, Sandler has also produced and written numerous films. He co-founded his production company, Happy Madison Productions, in 1999 and has since produced a variety of films, including "Deuce Bigalow: Male Gigolo," "The Animal," and "The House Bunny."
His wit, comedic timing, and ability to be an adorable goofball have made him a standout in the comedy world. While Sandler is mostly known for his sense of humor, he has also shown a more romantic side in his films, starring alongside several beautiful and talented actresses, including Jennifer Aniston, Salma Hayek, and Drew Barrymore.
Married to Jackie Titone with two daughters, the actor is known for his unique brand of humor and his ability to make audiences laugh. For most of his career, comedy was his go-to, but he also found success in more dramatic roles, such as in "Uncut Gems" and "Hustle." As he transitions from more physically demanding comedic roles, Sandler has opened up about the challenges – and blessings – of growing older and admitted aging is actually quite "freeing."
Adam Sandler (2017), (Christopher Furlong/Getty Images)
Sandler turned 56 in September 2022, and the actor was reminded of how time can take quite a toll on your body on the set of the basketball drama "Hustle." While playing alongside some of his co-stars, the actor suffered an injury that kept him off his feet for a while.
"We had some of that going, but that's before I popped my groin," Sandler told ET. "There was one night my groin couldn't take it anymore then I said, 'I guess I'm gonna have to watch these guys go.'" He added the injury was "so bad" and took some time to heal. "It's been a year already and I'm still limping around like a fool... it's horrible."
As Sandler grapples with an aging body, he's also been making positive changes for himself.
"I used to go nuts," he told AARP. "I had a quick temper, quick reactions. I made a lot of dumb mistakes and said a lot of stupid things. Looking back on relationships, I could be an ass. I was selfish."
What's been more helpful for him these days is talking things out. "I talk to a shrink sometimes. He's given me a plan. Sometimes just holding in a sentence, taking a beat for a minute before saying something stupid. When I do that, I realize it wasn't that important to say it in the first place, and I don't spend two hours making everyone around me feel weirdness for no reason. I'm also better at appreciation," he added.
As the years progress, Sandler has also found himself less worried about petty things. "I don't have the same discipline to keep my body in shape… I used to worry about it. Now I'm OK. Let's have a prime rib, man!" he said.
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Adam Sandler, Jackie Titone (2003), (Nick Goossen/AdamSandler.com/WireImage)
While Sandler is clearly aware that he isn't as young as he used to be, he doesn't consider the aging process as inherently terrifying.
"It feels great. It makes sense. I'm getting older. That doesn't mean I feel old. I mean, I do when I'm on the basketball court and an 18-year-old kid hears I'm 56 and says, 'Wow! I thought you were younger than that!'" Sandler explained.
"But I like my age, and it's fun to play my age. It's freeing. I don't have to be true to anything other than what I look like and what I think and what I do in life," he added, and remarked, "in general, I've gotten much better at life as I've gotten older."
Sandler has now reached an age where he can look back on his life and career and appreciate his experiences for where they have taken him – and where he has yet to go.
"I can't believe my life has gone as well as it's gone. I didn't have a lot of the pain that some comedians talk about, like problems with drugs and stuff like that. Everybody always had my back growing up," he said.
He shared his hopes for the future as well and said:
"I want people to continue to enjoy what I'm doing. I hope they've had a good time with my movies, with what we've given them and, whether you've liked me or not, appreciate that I've tried my best. … I'm just amazed people have trusted me as long as they have in this business, and given me shot after shot."
Adam Sandler (2022), (Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)
What are your thoughts on how Sandler feels about aging? Do you prefer seeing him in more comedic or dramatic roles? Let us know, and don't forget to pass this on to your friends and family.