Where Is Mel Brooks Now? Inside the Life of the “Spaceballs” Director

At 99 years old, Mel Brooks remains one of Hollywood’s most enduring comedic voices. The legendary filmmaker, actor, and writer is experiencing a career renaissance, with renewed interest in his classic works and fresh projects keeping him in the spotlight.

A Career That Changed Comedy

Brooks first rose to fame in the 1970s with Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein. These films cemented his reputation for bold, boundary-pushing comedy that tackled themes of race, sexuality, and corruption. He later expanded his legacy with History of the World, Part I and cult favorite Spaceballs. In 2001, Brooks joined the elite EGOT club, winning Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony awards.

Personal Life and Sacrifices

Brooks balanced his Hollywood career with family life, raising four children. His marriage to actress Anne Bancroft lasted 41 years until her death in 2005. Brooks has spoken openly about the profound impact of her passing, describing her as the love of his life. Work became his refuge, with projects like the Broadway adaptation of Young Frankenstein helping him through grief.

Later Career and Voice Work

In recent years, Brooks has lent his voice to animated projects, including Hotel Transylvania 2 and Toy Story 4. He also revisited his classics, contributing to Paws of Fury: The Legend of Hank in 2022 and producing Hulu’s History of the World, Part II in 2023. Fans can look forward to his reprisal of Yogurt in the upcoming Spaceballs sequel, slated for 2027.

Honors and Recognition

Brooks has received some of Hollywood’s highest honors, including a Kennedy Center Honor, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the National Medal of Arts. In 2024, he earned a Peabody Award, and in January 2026, he was presented with an honorary Oscar recognizing his lifetime achievements.

The HBO Documentary

Most recently, HBO released Mel Brooks: The 99-Year-Old Man! in January 2026. The two-part documentary explores his career, personal sacrifices, and enduring influence. Brooks reflected on his legacy, saying, “I hope that my contribution, cinematically, comically, to the world, will be durable.”

Still Making Audiences Laugh

With new projects, tributes, and documentaries, Brooks continues to shape comedy and inspire generations. His ability to blend humor with social commentary ensures his work remains relevant, proving that even at 99, Mel Brooks is still making the world laugh.