Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · September 22, 2025 · Entertainment

Lainie Kazan Makes Rare Public Appearance: A Glorious Return to the Spotlight!

This actress and singer, perhaps best known for playing a loud, lovable matriarch in a hit 2002 romantic comedy, was snapped during a rare outing in Los Angeles last week

BOMBSHELL! Lainie Kazan Spotted Out and About, Defying Age with Her Signature Glamour

In a shocking turn of events, 85-year-old Hollywood legend Lainie Kazan was spotted enjoying a low-key outing in Los Angeles last week. The beloved actress, best known for her unforgettable roles as Maria Portokalos in the My Big Fat Greek Wedding franchise and Aunt Frieda on hit sitcom The Nanny, was seen being carefully assisted into a wheelchair by a team of professionals.

But don't let this picture-perfect moment fool you – Kazan's life has been anything but smooth sailing. With a career spanning over six decades, she's had her fair share of highs and lows. From belting out show-stopping numbers on Broadway in the 1960s to landing iconic roles on the silver screen, Kazan has always been a trailblazer.

Now 85, the star tends to keep a lower profile and uses a wheelchair to get around, exclusive Daily Mail photos show

But what really sets her apart is her unapologetic spirit. The Brooklyn native got her start in supper clubs and variety shows before becoming a household name alongside Hollywood legends like Dean Martin. She even served as Barbra Streisand's understudy in the 1964 musical Funny Girl, cementing her status as a true diva.

In the 1980s, Kazan made waves with her breakout role in My Favorite Year, which earned her a Golden Globe nomination. Her performances on Broadway and screen are still revered today, including her Tony Award-winning turn as Best Featured Actress for the musical adaptation of My Favorite Year in 1993.

But it was her starring role as Maria Portokalos in My Big Fat Greek Wedding that catapulted Kazan to new heights. The film's massive success in 2002 made her a household name, and she went on to reprise her role in two more sequels.

It was Kazan's role as Maria Portokalos alongside Nia Vardalos in hit 2002 romcom My Big Fat Greek Wedding that introduced her to a whole new generation of fans

However, the actress hasn't been immune to controversy. In 2017, she was arrested for shoplifting from Gelson's grocery store in Los Angeles – but her reputation as a talented and vivacious performer endured.

Kazan has also had her share of drama off-screen. The Nanny creator, Fran Dreschler, revealed that Kazan was initially hesitant to take on the role of Aunt Frieda due to concerns about being typecast. But Kazan's performance as the lovable aunt turned out to be a game-changer for both her and the show.

Today, Kazan lives a quieter life in Los Angeles, but she still makes headlines from time to time. Her recent outing in Los Angeles has sparked whispers among fans and fellow celebrities alike – what does this mean for her future projects?

Kazan began acting and performing at supper clubs and variety shows in the 1960s, before going on to land major film roles; pictured on stage in 1985

Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Lainie Kazan remains an icon in the entertainment industry, inspiring new generations of performers with her talent, sass, and unapologetic spirit.

PHOTO EXCLUSIVE: Catch a glimpse of Lainie Kazan's recent outing in Los Angeles, courtesy of thescholarlynote.com. The Hollywood legend was spotted enjoying a day out, looking as glamorous as ever despite her advanced age.

The actress, pictured in 2012, reprised her role as Maria in the 2016 sequel and again in 2023 for the third installment of the franchise