Sally Field Responds to Critics Who Called Her “Ugly”
Navigating the pressures of Hollywood can be incredibly challenging, but Sally Field has spent her career defying expectations. Known for her roles in iconic films like Forrest Gump, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Steel Magnolias, Field has also become an advocate for battling ageism and bullying.
At 78, Field radiates the same vitality she did in her youth, despite still facing criticism about her appearance.
Early Life and Career
Field’s journey wasn’t easy. She grew up facing abuse from her stepfather, Jock Mahoney, a painful experience she detailed in her 2018 memoir, according to The New York Times.
Her breakthrough came with the 1960s sitcom Gidget, which thrust her into the spotlight and led to more serious roles in films like Sybil and Norma Rae, the latter earning her an Academy Award.
Over the years, Field became known for portraying strong maternal figures in beloved films such as Soap Dish and Not Without My Daughter. She also shared a heartfelt memory of an actress from The Flying Nun, who once gave her a note when she was struggling with self-doubt.
Embracing Aging Naturally
As Field grows older, she’s made it clear that she’s embracing aging with grace. In a 2016 interview with Good Housekeeping, she said she’s accepted herself as an “old woman” and prefers aging naturally rather than turning to plastic surgery to reclaim her youth.
“I watch myself on TV and think, ‘I really wish that wasn’t happening to my neck.’ My face looks droopy, and my eyes are super puffy,” Field confessed, but she’s at peace with it.
Facing Online Trolls and Health Challenges
Despite her embrace of aging, Field has become the target of online trolls who have cruelly labeled her “ugly.” These comments, often found on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), are a harsh reality many celebrities face.
Rather than letting these hurtful remarks affect her, Field has chosen to ignore them, staying committed to her decision to age gracefully, regardless of others’ opinions.
Additionally, Field has been silently managing osteoporosis, a condition she was diagnosed with in 2005, before turning 60. The disease, which affects bone density, is more common in women due to hormonal changes during menopause. Although she doesn’t often speak about it, Field explained to WebMD that despite her healthy lifestyle and regular exercise, she couldn’t avoid the condition.
“I always knew I was at risk. I was thin, had small bones, was Caucasian, and was getting close to 60. But I was shocked at how fast a woman could go from being at risk to actually having osteoporosis,” she shared.
Field described the experience of feeling her bones weakening without seeing or feeling any symptoms, making her diagnosis all the more unsettling.
A Role Model for Grace and Resilience
It’s disheartening to see Field, a beloved actress, face bullying online, especially as she deals with osteoporosis. Yet, her decision to age naturally and embrace her changing body serves as an inspiring example for others. Despite the negativity, she continues to showcase resilience and grace, encouraging others to do the same as they navigate the challenges of aging.