Sally Field responds to critics who called her “ugly”
It’s challenging to be a woman in Hollywood, but Sally Field has boldly refused to follow many of the ‘rules’ imposed by the industry.
Her performances in films like Forrest Gump, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Steel Magnolias are truly iconic. However, some of her most inspiring work is not on the screen but in her personal fight against ageism and bullying throughout her career.
Timeless beauty and resilience
At 78, Field still radiates the charm she had at 19, even as she continues to face criticism about her appearance.
Early beginnings and career milestones
Field’s early life was marked by challenges, including the traumatic sexual abuse she endured from her stepfather, Jock Mahoney—something she bravely revealed in her 2018 memoir, according to The New York Times.
Her career began with the 1960s sitcom Gidget, a breakout role that catapulted her to fame and paved the way for acclaimed performances in Sybil and Norma Rae (earning her an Academy Award). Over time, she became widely recognized for portraying strong maternal figures in hits like Soap Dish and Not Without My Daughter.
Recalling a turning point during her work on The Flying Nun, she shared, “A wonderful actress I worked with pulled me aside and handed me a note when I was deeply depressed.”
Embracing natural aging
Field has been open about embracing aging gracefully. In a 2016 Good Housekeeping interview, she admitted to accepting her role as an “older woman.” She also expressed her decision to avoid plastic surgery, instead focusing on appreciating her current appearance as she grows older.
“I see myself on TV and think, ‘Oh, I wish my neck didn’t look like that.’ Your face changes, your eyes get puffier,” she confessed, acknowledging the natural aging process.
Facing online cruelty and health struggles
Field’s decision to age naturally has, unfortunately, made her a target for online trolls, who have mocked her appearance on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). Despite the negativity, she remains steadfast in her commitment to age on her own terms.
Beyond the criticism, Field has faced health challenges, including osteoporosis, a condition she was diagnosed with in 2005 before turning 60. This silent disease, more common in women due to hormonal changes during menopause, causes a loss in bone density. Despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle, Field shared with WebMD that her risk factors—being thin, small-boned, and Caucasian—meant the diagnosis was almost inevitable.
“My bones were getting thinner without any symptoms I could notice,” she explained.
An inspiration to many
It’s disheartening to see Sally Field subjected to online bullying, particularly when she’s battling health issues like osteoporosis. Nonetheless, her decision to age naturally and live authentically continues to inspire others who wish to do the same.
If you admire Sally Field, you might also enjoy learning more about her relationship with Burt Reynolds and the reasons they didn’t speak for the last 30 years of his life.
