At 55 years old, Chris Jericho continues to defy expectations in both wrestling and music. In a candid interview with Soundsphere Magazine, the legendary performer addressed the topic of ageism head-on while sharing advice for anyone who feels their best years are behind them.
It's never too late. It's never too late and, you know, there is ageism and that sort of a thing and you just can't worry about it," Jericho declared.
"Your age is your age, this is how old you are. It's not a death sentence to be in your 50s, right? Or your 60s or your 70s. There's still time to do things and you still can.
The interviewer referenced fan comments calling Jericho an inspiration who makes people feel they can accomplish anything at any age. Rather than dismiss the sentiment, Jericho leaned into it with practical advice.
I think the biggest detriment to success that we have is ourselves, you know, and so why not? Someone's got to do it, so why not you do it? And I think no matter how old you are, there's still always time to do things that you want to do," he explained.
Despite his legendary status as a nine-time world champion and AEW's inaugural champion, Jericho revealed he still hustles for acting roles just like anyone else. He recently landed a part on the CBS series "Tracker," but the road to getting cast was anything but easy.
To get the part, I had to read for it. Then the casting director has to approve it. Then the director had to approve it. Then the producers have to approve it. Then the network had to approve it. So there's four levels of hierarchy to get this role. It is not easy to get parts," Jericho admitted.
When asked if his wrestling fame allows him to pick and choose acting opportunities, Jericho was refreshingly honest.
I'm not at the position where I can pick and choose what I want to do. So yeah, there is the grift and the hustling but I don't mind. I've done it my whole life. It's what I did in wrestling. It's what I did in music.
The comments offer a rare glimpse into the work ethic that has kept Jericho relevant across multiple decades, even as speculation swirls about his next move following his AEW departure.