Academy Award-winning actress Dame Helen Mirren is 63 and she has a lot to celebrate and be thankful for.

The jaw-dropping pictures of the Oscar-winning actress frolicking about with her hubby in Italy spark memories of sexkittens Ursula Andress and Brigitte Bardot.

Mirren's bikini shot also represents a significant benchmark; it's now become acceptable to be attracted to a woman of 62, even if you are a young man. A Nude photo from Helen's youth is here.

Helen Mirren has certainly raised the bar.

Is it so shocking to be sexy at 62? Probably not, but many agree it is still surprising in an era when youth has been elevated to cult status.

Last week, the older woman was celebrated briefly, as the pundits appreciated the VIP guests at the New York premiere of Mamma Mia! which included Lauren Bacall, Jane Seymour and Sigourney Weaver.