Brooke Shields, the iconic actress and model, recently opened up about her remarkable career and the self-reflection it has inspired, discussing the imposter syndrome she's battled nearly all her life.
During her candid interview with Katty Kay on the BBC's Influential, Shields shared insights from her experiences spanning almost six decades. It seems her time under the spotlight has finally led her to feel confident, stating, "I've been able to find value beyond the surface and looks and beauty." This quote encapsulates her transformation from the young girl celebrated for her beauty to the introspective woman she is today.
Being dubbed the "face of a decade" on the cover of Time magazine back in 1981 set the stage for Shields' career, which flourished with modeling assignments for Calvin Klein and performances in iconic films like The Blue Lagoon and Endless Love. Yet, with all the glitz and glamour came the pressure to maintain her youthful image. Reflecting on this pressure, she remarked, "[Having] a youthful face, just regularly getting older is almost viewed as a disappointment." This pressure to stay perpetually young is not just personal; it’s deeply rooted within American culture.
Shields has recently been candid about her thoughts on aging, especially highlighted by her new book, Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Ageing as a Woman, released on January 14, 2023. Within its pages, she delves deep to explore how her upbringing and the constant public scrutiny have influenced her perceptions of beauty and self-worth.
Addressing the unique challenges women face as they age, Shields said, "There is this psychological battle… you really have to do a lot of work on yourself internally to be OK with not also being disappointed with yourself.” This internal struggle speaks to many women who feel the burdens of societal expectations as they age.
Interestingly, Shields identified cultural differences when it came to perceptions of aging. She expressed, "It's definitely a very American thing. I think you go to Europe – there is a certain respect and reverence for beauty, mature beauty." Her statements hint at her hope for changing attitudes within the American perspective, as she aims to contribute to this dialogue about aging gracefully.
A common theme throughout the interview was Shields' realization of the freedom and liberation aging has brought her. “I think there's a freedom to it... focused on just us,” she said. It’s as if she’s finally unshackled from the expectations of youthfulness, allowing herself to focus more on her own desires and aspirations.
Shields has successfully integrated her fame and influence to explore various avenues beyond modeling and acting. She launched her haircare line, Commence, and founded an online community known as Beginning is Now, aimed at women over 40. These endeavors showcase her push toward empowerment and redefining beauty standards at any age.
The icon’s mature outlook is especially encouraging for women who battle with their identities and beauty as time passes. Many have found inspiration as she openly discusses facing challenges such as postpartum depression, educated herself at Princeton, and pursued several ventures on Broadway, including performances in Chicago, Cabaret, and Grease.
At one point, Shields recalled how her old insecurities resurfaced during encounters with high-profile figures at events. Yet, she noted, “Everything I've done and been and seen and grown from... gives me the opportunity to not be intimidated by any of these people.” This shift marks a significant moment of personal growth, as she recognizes her worth among her talented peers.
Her honesty about fame also raises questions about how Hollywood and society view older women today. Despite the welcoming waves seen for women like Demi Moore and Jennifer Coolidge, Shields reminds us how ingrained societal expectations and personal dilemmas about aging can still be challenging.
Brooke Shields' recent reflections serve as not just personal insights, but also broader commentary on the nuances of aging within celebrity culture, and the significant inner work it takes to accept oneself fully. This perspective might very well resonate with not just her fanbase but anyone grappling with the societal pressures surrounding them.
Influential with Katty Kay airs on Fridays at 21:30 ET on the BBC News channel, offering viewers more thought-provoking discussions with various influential personalities, just like Shields, who is redefining the narratives around aging and beauty.
Shields is not only celebrating her age but also paving the way for other women to embrace their journeys, reminding us all of the beauty found within the process of aging.