Once hailed as one of Hollywood’s most beautiful women, Ali MacGraw is now 86—and still captivating audiences. The iconic actress, best remembered for her role in Love Story (1970), was recently seen in New York City looking elegant in a sleek black suit. With her silver hair swept back, she completed the look with kitten heels and a simple black handbag.

MacGraw’s rise to fame came relatively late compared to many of her peers. She began in her 30s and quickly made an impact. Her breakout role in Goodbye, Columbus (1969) earned her a Golden Globe, setting the stage for her next career-defining moment.

That moment arrived in 1970 with Love Story, where she played Jenny Cavilleri opposite Ryan O’Neal. The romantic drama became a global hit and solidified her status as a star. MacGraw won another Golden Globe and earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

The film also gave pop culture one of its most memorable lines: “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.” Even decades later, the phrase remains part of the cultural conversation, inseparably linked to MacGraw’s performance.

Despite her immense success, MacGraw stepped back from Hollywood in the 1990s. Reflecting on her career, she has described her sudden rise to fame as both thrilling and overwhelming. Without formal training, she often felt unprepared for the spotlight.

Her honesty about that experience has endeared her to fans, many of whom admire her openness as much as her talent. MacGraw’s retreat from the entertainment world allowed her to embrace a quieter, more grounded life.

Still, her influence endures. Love Story continues to be celebrated as one of the great romantic films, and its leading lady remains a symbol of timeless beauty and grace.

At 86, Ali MacGraw shows that true star power never fades—it simply evolves.