Sheila Sullivan, a renowned actress with a career spanning from the Atomic Age to late-20th century Hollywood, celebrated her 86th birthday this summer. Curiosity struck her as she wondered how older individuals spent their days. She expressed, "I'm much too... whatever-it-is, to be old," emphasizing her vibrant spirit and desire to stay engaged. Sullivan's impressive resume includes performances alongside Woody Allen and Sammy Davis Jr., as well as dancing at the Tropicana in Las Vegas. She also participated in civil rights marches alongside Black celebrities in Selma, Alabama, in 1965. Throughout her life, Sullivan had been married to a theater publicist and television star Robert Culp, but those relationships didn't last.

Recently, Sullivan attended her first-ever show by the Rockettes with her close friend Tina Dupuy, a writer and former neighbor. Sullivan had once aspired to become a Rockette herself but felt she was "about this much too short" and decided not to watch the show when she wasn't a part of it. However, on this particular day, West 50th Street was closed to traffic, giving the two friends an opportunity to dance in the middle of the street. Sullivan donned a stunning leopard-print hat and coat, attracting attention from passersby who couldn't help but compliment her beauty.

Despite not being the star of the show, Sullivan thoroughly enjoyed her first Rockettes experience and expressed contentment with not always being in the spotlight. Her humility is evident considering her vast accomplishments in Broadway, film, and activism. Sullivan's life story, unfortunately condensed for brevity, includes a Broadway career, activism during the civil rights movement, and marriages to notable figures.

However, even stars like Sullivan face challenges. Earlier this year, she received an eviction notice for her Upper West Side apartment of 40 years. Fortunately, Dupuy, her former neighbor, came to her aid and helped resolve the issue. The two had formed a close bond over the years, enjoying Broadway shows, movies, and cocktails together.

Months later, Sullivan looks back on the eviction scare with relief. She no longer fears being put out on the street and has returned to her passions. In November, she and Dupuy attended a party celebrating Nat Horne, a fellow actor who appeared alongside Sullivan in the 1964 musical "Golden Boy," featuring Sammy Davis Jr. Horne was a member of the ensemble, while Sullivan served as an understudy who was called to perform at short notice.

Aside from occasional health issues, such as a recent cold and a pulled muscle from ballet exercises, Sullivan remains determined to stay active. Despite her age, she refuses to let it define her, stating, "I'm old, but I'm not old." After their eventful night at the Rockettes show, Sullivan and Dupuy laughed and reflected on their year together over breakfast. Dupuy expressed her admiration for Sullivan, describing her as extraordinary and mentioning her initial intention to share Sullivan's story through her obituary. Sullivan responded with laughter and gratitude.

This heartwarming tale showcases Sullivan's resilience, zest for life, and the importance of friendship in navigating the ups and downs of aging.