You’ve met Lively’s brand ambassador Holly Robinson Peete, and now we’d like to introduce you to her mother, Dolores Robinson! A former Hollywood agent, manager, producer and actress, Dolores is living her life to the fullest in her home in Palm Springs, CA. We recently spoke with Dolores on how she stays healthy, active, and independent – and got the scoop on how she’s continuously reinventing her life and career. Dolores is also an avid proponent and owner of the Lively Mobile Plus, which supports her always-on-the-move life.
Lively: Dolores, you have such a storied history – from finding acting talent, launching careers and producing in Hollywood, to being an activist, mother and grandmother. How does it all fit together?
Dolores: I started my career as a teacher in, helping to integrate the school system in Levittown, Pennsylvania. During this time, I also started a program to provide education and health services to young women who became pregnant in school, a program that still exists today.
I stopped teaching when I became a mother myself, but later joined KYW-TV Philadelphia as the public relations director. Because of my background as a teacher, I was asked to host one of the local station’s children’s TV shows. After some time doing this, I packed up my children and our bags and drove to California. That’s when I became a talent agent – I met LeVar Burton through a mutual friend, he hired me as his manager, and the rest, they say, is history. Some of my well-known clients included Wesley Snipes, Mark Wahlberg, Martin Sheen, Pierce Brosnan, and Mariska Hargitay, among others. I’m the first Black female manager in the history of show business and was inducted into the Personal Managers Hall of Fame in 2017.
In 2008, between the financial crisis and some other challenges, I found myself needing to make another change with my life and career – but, I’ve always made the best of any situation and moved on. So I left LA. Now here I am in Palm Springs!
Lively: What motivated you to start another chapter in a new location?
Dolores: While I do miss my family, I understand that they have their own lives; my grandkids are teenagers and young adults, living their lives and doing their own thing. I never learned how to mind my own business when I was living in LA in their guest house. On the outside, I am the most social person in the world, but whenever I walk inside my home, I remember that there’s also a part of me that loves to be by myself. I moved away so I could live my life, and they could live theirs. It’s a nice lesson for older people – our own lives are the only ones we can control.
A little over a month ago, my son Matt and his wife Cindy visited me, and just last week they also moved to Palm Springs, about five minutes away. That was a nice surprise. Matt has given me an open invitation to their pool, and I do love to swim. But having them close, I’m tempted to always run over there. So once again, I try to mind my own business, and allow them to enjoy their new home without me there all the time. My daughter Holly and her family are also coming to see us soon!
Lively: What shapes your days now? Are there any special projects, organizations or activities you’re focused on? What do you do for fun?
Dolores: I used to have a large garden in Beverly Hills which I would spend hours trying to keep alive. Now in Palm Springs, I keep a few plants in pots on the patio, and I’m still working on keeping them alive. It’s hot out here! I still like to spend my time staying active. I use a Fitbit and set a goal of 5,000 steps per day. With Coronavirus happening, I’m cautious about going to the gym, so I do things like walk the mile perimeter of my condo. Even when I go to the grocery store, I’m almost in a hazmat suit, but I’ve started to get a little braver.
I’ve recently become a podcast person and have been a guest on a few different ones. Besides that, I’m writing a book, which includes thank you notes to everyone in my life. I’m writing letters for former classmates, politicians, family, friends, colleagues – practically everybody who’s has a part in my development as a human being.
I am also the spokesperson for Pegasus Therapeutic Riding, a foundation that provides therapeutic horseback riding for young people with special needs. This is especially important to me as I saw firsthand how this activity helped my grandson, who has autism.
Lively: What role does technology play in keeping you connected and independent?Dolores: I am very connected through technology for someone my age. I have almost 5,000 Facebook friends, and over 21,000 Instagram followers. Technology allows me to stay connected with the people I love while being safely distanced during this time. I’m doing things I never would have been able to do without technology, like staying in touch with high school and college friends. And in addition to things like jigsaw puzzles, keeping up with technology helps test my brain and keep my mind active. Sometimes I’m nervous that I’ll do something like accidentally deleting everything – but I haven’t yet. It’s not something I grew up with, so while it can still be a challenge to use, it’s a necessity today if you want to stay connected.
Lively’s Lively Mobile Plus device helps give me peace of mind, especially since I live alone. Even though I’m in good shape, I know it’s especially valuable when I need to use a ladder or when I go out for walks, or even if I have to find my car in a big parking lot. Whenever I’m feeling extra tired, or even simply taking a trip to the grocery store, it serves as a security blanket for me. The best part – mine’s bedazzled! It makes for a great conversation starter in the supermarket line.
Lively: You’ve said previously that you won’t be defined by labels, that you’ve dealt with sexism, racism, and now at this stage in your life, you face ageism. Can you tell us more about that?
Dolores: If I’m being honest, I’m that girl who’s fishing for compliments when she tells someone she’s 84, because I’m always told I don’t look my age. I work hard to stay in shape, mostly because I value being healthy and want to live for as long as I can. For one reason or another, I’ve always had limits put on me, but I won’t let limits control me. I’ve already decided I want to live to be 104 and have the number tattooed on my wrist. It reminds me of my goals and my desire to stay happy and healthy every day.
We’ll also be speaking with Matthew Robinson, Dolores’ son and Holly’s brother. Check back soon to learn more about him!
i would love this for my mom who is 91 and fabulous. She and my dad owned a Hair salon Hair styling by Joseph she is now at home and alone. i would like more info to get this for her
I love Delores Robinson! She’s the best! Lucky you! All my love to your entire family.
I love what I read about Delores I’ve always been a fan of her daughter now I’m a fan of her Mom.
I’m a big fan of Mrs Robinson & her Great out look on Life. I’m 65 young, I keep moving in this joy we call life. I remember hearing her name as a great manager from a modeling agency that rep me. After 20 yrs and returning to the States I again heard she was the best! Stay at pwace beautiful Queen.
Laurance Waters
My name is also Delores a name I love . Many people in the Spanish community love it b/ c it means being to endure pain of others something I did not know I was given this name by my aunt in alabama go figure
Me Robinson and I are the same age and share the same thoughts. I too have set my goal for a long life of 102. Like her, I have permanent wrinkles in my forehead…😊
What an inspiration!!! I love your strength and courage! I’m with you. It’s a joy I’m reading your story. To me, you love yourself and life. I feel you, soo touching! You and I have something in common. I’m 67 years old/single. My late husband, my love has been gone about 21/2 years. After greiving my husband, I’m doing well. My routine is going to church, working in the yard and shopping. I’m now enjoying my life. In fact, Delores,. I’ve been saying I want to continue to live with all my health and strength, right mind . I want to be caught up in the rapture. I’m not going to let age define me, either! God is soo good, thank you for your inspiration! It just push me on to see what the end will be. May God continue to Bless you and your household! My name is LaWanda Loftis, you may text me anytime. I feel like ive met a friend. Thanks again for sharing.
This was a great interview. Ms Delores you have really encouraged me. I’m retired and I want to live a joyous life. Your sense of independence inspires me. I’m a pretty independent person and I feel I may need additional friends who are interested in what I’m interested in. Thank you.
Best looking 84 year old I have wver seen!
Great interview for great lady with a life filled with many experiences. Can tell you are not fearful of New adventures. You remind me of my Mom who lived to be 104 on her own terms! You got this !
Hello Dolores
You living your best life. 😜
It’s refreshing to read something positive and about someone who is continuing to knock down barriers. Overcoming racism, sexism and ageism, three relevant topics for me. Thank you for your positive energy.
I really enjoyed this.Im 80 yrs old and tend to let it control what i do.So this was very encouraging.
Thank u Delores.
Very inspirational. I too live that life at 98 yrs. love it. Thanks to GOD.
You’re a welcome inspiration for people’s of a certain age, I couldn’t keep up with you…lol, I’m very happy that you can remain healthy and live by your own rules. Keep on keeping on Ms. Robinson. Your family is amazing. Proud to have “kind of” chatted with you! Hugs and Blessings! 🤗🤗🙏🏻🙏🏻👩🏾💻
So blessed! Thank you!❤
Wow….what an inspiration. I am 69 years old and recently widowed. Your story has inspired me to do more and be more. Age is truly just a number
Great interview. It inspired me to keep living life to its fullest.
Delores, I was so surprised to see your video pop up on my Facebook page. I have wanted to get in touch with you for years, but didn’t know how. Do you remember sharing office space in Beverly Hills with a couple of CPAs in the late 1970s? I worked in their office, and have thought about you a several times over the years. I was going to mention details here, but then realized this would be showing in a public forum, so I’m hoping you will e-mail me so I can say hi. For now, I’ll just throw out this teaser. Back then it was popular to ask people, “What’s your sign?” Do you remember what your unique and funny answer was to that question? I do.
What an inspiration you are Dolores Robinson. There are many parallels in our lives. I was a teacher for the N.Y. public schools.Since the virus hit I came to Tampa to be with my daughter. I too, am writing a life story about a beautiful black man who gave me unconditional love and called me Yoruba Princess. I’m 74 but feeling blessed and happier than I ever have been. Keep telling your story because you are an inspiration.
I have always loved this family. Watching the Pete’s T.V. show. Especially, since I’m a mother of twins with a similar boy/girl scenario. This is when I was introduced to Miss. Delores. So very inspiring and uplifting. I’m happy, to have come across this update on yourself. We need motherly mature lovely examples in this time.Thank you.
You are such a beautiful and strong lady. Oh yes you’re right, you don’t look your age. God Bless you and your family!
What an inspirational story. I’ve always admired your energy and enthusiasm for life. I like your goal of living to the age of 104. My goal is lower for life expectancy… after reading your story I’m truly inspired to reach my goal of 82. I plan to follow your advise of keep it moving and staying active.
Thank you
Hi I love Dolores Robinson and her independence. I am 64 and hope to be retiring soon and enjoying life as she does. I hope I reach my 80s and pass that. My family is none for longevity. I enjoy watching Holly’s show on Hallmark and especially when Dolores is on the show. You have gave me so much encouragement to be myself and just enjoy the rest of my life doing what I want to do. After marriage and raising my kids. They are adults now and just enjoying the grand kids. Dolores lets you know life is still wonderful once you get older! Thank you Dolores!! Stay healthy and strong!!!
Delores Robinson, you are an inspiration to any Woman of any age. I have watched you on the show with the rest of your family, and I loved it. I really hated to seek itl end. Please keep inspiring women all to live their best life!🥰
I knew you when! Have you found Patricia yet? Congratulations on a fine career after Philly! Didn’t know you had it in you, living in Matt’s shadow. Friend shooting a doc on me, “The Mystery of “The Football Follies”, or who CREATED “the most popular sports film ever”? BTW, I had the wedding shot and there’s a picture of a young Holly staring back at the camera. If we need to unearth it, I’ll send a copy.
Simon
I remember you and your family from Sansom street in Philadelphia. I’m proud of you and you look great. Holly was such a role model for the younger girls on our street. God bless you.
Hi Dolores, I would like to knw what you eat every day and what you do for exercise. I enjoyed the article abt you. I live 2 doors from my children but I don’t bother them too much. I love to cook and have them come to my house to eat. Thank you for sharing.
Great Inspiration and I can’t mind my business either.
I was the nutritionist at Health District 4 in Philadelphia, PA where you taught teen age girls. A few times you brought Holly to work. Enjoy your life, you deserve it.
I Patricia really enjoys Delores information on how people that becomes older in life how living their lifes in peace. its a beautiful feeling to know when you get a certain age in life, it all belongs to and how you control it. Staying out of other people lives and tenting to your on business, helps your health and mind from any stress, I love her knowledge of expressions God bless her.
Very inspiring. Ms.Delores you have given me hope.Thank you for lifting the spirits of the more mature ones.
Hi Delores, you are such an inspiration to so many people. Thanks for sharing your beautiful family with the world. Their tv show is so real an raw. I love the time Holly an Rodney take care of their family and nutrient them. I am 64 years young and pray I can live as long a healthy life as you have an still doing. And honestly you do not look like you are 84 years young. Kudos to you for living your best life.
But God Awesome Mrs Robinson is gorgeous
Girl you rock. I am 70 years old and I exercise and I refuse to have limits. I have had heart surgery but I walk and exercise. I read articles to motivate me like yours, Dolores. Let’s keep motivating each other. With the will of God, I want to live to be over a 100. If they did it in the Biblical days, with God’s will, we can do it again and again!
Delores Robinson is a light in this world. God bless you!
Ms. Robinson, I always loved you and your family over the years and on the Robinson Peete TV show. U look awesome. God bless and you and family. Stay blessed and safe.❤
Beautiful article. Delores is certainly an inspiration. God bless her.
Ms. Delores,
You are such an inspiration. Thank you for your open and honest answers. The entire interview was awesome. Please continue to live your best life.❤️
Way to go my dear!!! Must be doing something right
Hi sista Robinson. I’m from Willow Grove, PA. I loved seeing the show when you returned to Ambler. Knew a few of the people at that outing. Love you can do spirit.
How hard was it for you to decide to move from your daughters home?
Delores it was nice seeing you this morning on Facebook you’re still lovely lady that you were here in Philadelphia at the same time Robin was on today show talking about a movie that is coming out and I was really impressed to see the both of y’all simultaneously technology is great I’m on Facebook I put up a picture of you
LeVar Barton and ginger and myself some time ago like to send it to you you’re still at lovely lady be safe and continue your work
Awesome article, so glad the Lord led me to it. I decided to live until I am 127, but I wanted to see beautiful women who are older than I am (68)now, so that I would be able to keep hope alive. Wow, you are that hope. May God continue to use you to inspire others to live to their fullest potential and to inspire others to do the same.
I’m so happy to have found and read such an encouraging and inspirational article on such a beautiful person that I admire.
#Keep it moving, Delores Robinson because the best is yet to come.
You are a blessing!
Hi Ms. Dolores Robinson. It is a pleasure and a breather to read about you. In fact it is refreshing and inspiring. Reading about the things you do has reminded me of some of the dreams I’ve had but have been unable to acquire. Maybe I have not been forceful enough or brave enough to continue and keep up with activities which I have started like; writing poems, songs, starting a book etc. I wish I could connect with you. Sometimes I feel an emptiness in my life like there are things which I need to finish up but have not yet gotten underway.
My name is Ewuradjoa am an originally from Africa am an admirer of Mrs Robinson how can I meet her personally to give her a big hug she is my role model and always will be. May God conti nue to bless her . indeed she will live past 104 grinz
Hello Dolores Robinson,
I’m blessed to blessed to meet you, I’m am a fan of your awesome daughter Holly, now I’m a fan of her lovely Mother.
I admire your beautiful spirit
for life I am 82 as last week,
& my life expectancy is 100,
living well trying to stay positive.
You are an inspiration and a true blessing keep on keeping on!
God bless you and family,
Happy Holidays!!
I enjoyed reading your story.I know you from a distance through my daughter and your daughter.I am 78 and after my husband passed I joined a Scrabble club and began taking Spanish.Those two activities have been a daily joy for me.I also enjoy reading biographies
Great article.
Beautiful woman.
Beautiful spirit.
Continued blessings.
You are an inspiration looking so great at your age
Hello Delores I am just reading about you. You appears to be just as energetic like myself. I am 89 years young at heart. I love meeting and talking with young and older people. I have3 sons who have blessed me with 6 grands and today I have 6 great grandsons and only 3 granddaughters.My oldest grand child is only 14 and my youngest grandchild is only 8 months. i have asked God to give me 21 more years with a sound mind.
Love reading about successful peaple that had this type faith in themselves,very inspiring I like to hear more DELORES right a book send me a copy may u c the LORD in what u do DANNYTOWLER
Ms. Robinson:
We met when I was an reader at Lorimar Productions in Los Angeles
You look GREAT!
Georgetta Banks
Loved this article
Good to read you’re living a life in good health, grace and thankfulness.
Enjoyed reading about you. You look great. Im spending the winter with my daughter and my grandchildren,trying to help out and mind my own business. Im 75 and trying to get back to where I was pre COVID-19. You’ve encouraged me. Thanks so much. Im going to the silver sneakers yoga class this morning. God bless you and your loved ones.
Hi sweetie pie. Just a brief note 2 say God bless you I love you and keep up the good work.
Phyllis Meece I am 94 and live life to the fullest. I exercised my buns off when younger. I still am very active. Can lay my hands on the floor without bending my knees. No longer can I put my leg around my neck but can throw it up on a table.
There’s 6 months difference in our ages. So glad you’re doing great! I’m in excellent health and expecting and hoping to be around for many more years. Hope and 🙏 for more good times!