Young and Restless star Eric Braeden, 85, showcases incredible fitness

The veteran actor shared a striking video of himself working out on the beach, proving he's still going strong at 85.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:21am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract close-up photograph of a pair of boxing gloves and the sand beneath them, capturing the intense textures and high-contrast lighting of a workout routine.At 85, actor Eric Braeden's dedication to fitness and physical strength is a testament to his resilience and determination.Santa Monica Today

At 85 years old, Eric Braeden, the iconic star of the long-running soap opera The Young and the Restless, took to Instagram to share a video of himself working out on the beach. In the clip, Braeden is seen powerfully boxing against a heavy punching bag, moving with precision and control despite his advanced age. Fans were quick to praise Braeden's remarkable strength, stamina, and determination, noting that his fitness level would be impressive at any age.

Why it matters

Braeden's fitness video serves as an inspiring example of how age is just a number when it comes to maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. As one of television's most formidable and long-standing actors, Braeden's commitment to his physical well-being reflects the resilience he has brought to his iconic role as Victor Newman on The Young and the Restless.

The details

In the video, Braeden is seen wearing an all-black workout ensemble and boxing gloves as he punches a heavy bag set up on the beach, with palm trees and the ocean providing a cinematic backdrop. The 85-year-old actor moves with power and precision, shifting his weight and maintaining strong footing on the sand as he throws controlled punches.

  • Braeden shared the video on his Instagram account on April 13, 2026.

The players

Eric Braeden

An 85-year-old actor best known for his long-running role as Victor Newman on the soap opera The Young and the Restless.

Dale Russel Gudegast

Braeden's wife of nearly 60 years, whom he met while they were both students at Santa Monica College.

Christian Gudegast

Braeden and Gudegast's son, who is a director and writer in Hollywood, having worked on films like A Man Apart, London Has Fallen, and Den of Thieves.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“85 and going strong!”

— Eric Braeden

“His strength, stamina and determination would be impressive at any age, let alone well into his eighties.”

— Fan

“It's inspiring to see someone not just maintaining their fitness, but actively pushing themselves in such a dynamic way.”

— Fan

The takeaway

Eric Braeden's fitness video at 85 years old serves as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle. As one of television's most iconic and resilient actors, Braeden's commitment to his physical well-being is a testament to the determination and discipline that have defined his long and successful career.