Jack Nicholson, 86, is all smiles as rarely seen actor steps out for first time in two years at basketball game

JACK Nicholson was all smiles last night as he stepped out for the first time in TWO years.

The rarely seen actor, 86, was spotted enjoying himself at a basketball game in LA.

Before last night’s outing, Jack was last spotted in public attending a Los Angeles Lakers game in October 2021 with his son Ray, who is also an actor.

Over the years the Hollywood star has become more and more of a recluse.

He retired from acting in 2017, and now prefers to stay out of the spotlight.

But last night he was all smiles as he enjoyed watching his beloved Lakers, who he has been a fan of since the 70s.

The new pictures come just a few months after fears Jack could die alone, after the Hollywood legend became a recluse.

According to a report out in January by Radar, the actor’s friends were worried that the iconic Chinatown star could die alone like his pal Marlon Brando.

“He’s made it clear his home is his castle. But people just wish he’d come out of the house and pop up to tell them how — or at least reassure folks he’s OK,” an insider shared with the outlet at the time.

The once prolific womanizer tends to spend his time at home in the luxurious community of Mulholland Drive and only sees his family.

“His kids will visit, but they’re his only connection to the world,” said the source.

“It’s like he doesn’t want to face reality anymore — and that’s just sad.”

The source claimed: “Jack’s in touch with certain relatives — especially Ray, his protégé, who he’s so proud of — but his socializing days are long gone.”

Insiders close to the star are fearing he might meet the same fate as Marlon, who died alone at 80 in 2004.

“Brando died a virtual recluse after leading such a colorful life, and Jack’s friends are drawing the comparisons.”

Jack bought Marlon’s old home, which boasts four bedrooms, three bathrooms and a pool, shortly after his death.

Before that, the two stars had lived next door to each other for a number of years.

Jack has not appeared in a movie since 2010, when he played alongside Reese Witherspoon and Owen Wilson in How Do You Know.

The three-time Academy Award winner is understood to be single following his split from long term girlfriend Lara Flynn Boyle in 2004 and Paz de la Huerta in 2006.

Although he is a father of six children, he was only married once – to Sandra Knight from 1962 to 1968.