With the winter holidays fast approaching, Jamie Lee Curtis took to the stage of ABC's The View on December 20 to share her complex feelings about the season. Known for her sharp wit and humor, the Academy Award-winning actress turned the holiday spotlight on her own experiences, humorously referring to herself as the "slightly slutty sister" of Ebenezer Scrooge.
During her appearance, Curtis handed out gifts from her charity, My Hand in Yours, which supports Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “Tis the season,” she reminded the co-hosts Joy Behar, Sara Haines, Sunny Hostin, and Alyssa Farah Griffin. Yet, as the conversation unfolded, it became clear Curtis wasn't feeling the holiday cheer typically associated with this time of year.
"I feel like I feel about the beauty industry, which I think is called the beauty industrial complex, and the same way I feel about the cosmeceutical industry, which is the cosmeceutical industrial complex. I also feel [that way] about the holiday industrial complex; where it makes you feel as if you don’t do more, somehow you’re not good enough. And I have to tell you, I’m just over it!” Curtis declared, expressing her frustration with the overwhelming obligations of the season.
Such sentiments were echoed by the American Psychiatric Association's 2021 findings, which revealed nearly 40% of adults were anxious about holiday shopping and around 20% described their feelings about Christmas as "stressful" or "anxiety-inducing.” Curtis, 66, recognized this widespread holiday fatigue, sharing with her audience how the pressure can dampen the joy of festivities.
While discussing the challenges of the holiday season, Curtis also touched upon her career and personal growth, emphasizing her desire to take charge of her creative endeavors. She emphasized this newfound confidence, stating, “I’m bossy!” and noting her ambition to manifest her visions since turning 60. Curtis revealed this shift came with a commitment to have more influence over her projects, which includes producing and starring in the new Amazon Prime Video series The Sticky.
This upcoming series, which features Curtis as she tackles the high-stakes world of the maple syrup industry, resonates with her comedic sensibilities, showcasing not just her talent but also her willingness to embrace unique narratives. “The script just made me laugh. It’s incredibly well written. It had the dark comedy sense I love,” Curtis noted.
Alongside her series, Curtis is set to appear with Pamela Anderson and others in The Last Showgirl, which explores aging against the backdrop of the entertainment industry’s relentless admiration for youth. This film emphasizes themes Curtis holds dear, offering depth to her already diverse career.
Despite her busy schedule, Curtis also cherishes moments at home. She recently celebrated her birthday by sharing a sweet caption on Instagram about enjoying cake brought to her by her husband, Christopher Guest. The caption, highlighting the quiet moments of life, revealed Curtis's appreciation for small joys, “Perfect birthday wake up,” she shared, reflecting on their four-decade union.
Jamie Lee Curtis has always been candid about her views on aging, stating back on Today how turning 65 was "a moment of reflection and excitement," and how her recent artistic endeavors have sparked renewed energy and creativity. "I’m much less hard on myself. I’m very much in acceptance of what I look like and I own what I think and feel. And to me, that's what maturity is," she explained.
Interestingly, Curtis amplifies her distinct personality by advocating for daytime concerts, much to the amusement of her fans. On Jenna Bush Hager's podcast Open Book, Curtis playfully expressed her desire for concerts to start earlier, wanting to enjoy live music and still make it home to bed at a reasonable hour. “I love Coldplay. The problem is, I’m not gonna go see Coldplay if they start their show at nine o’clock,” she said, making her case for matinee concerts.
With her birthday bringing her closer to turning 67, Curtis isn't just reflecting on her past but also carving out the future she desires. Emphasizing creativity and openness, Curtis presents herself as not only an actress but also as someone committed to leaving her mark through meaningful work.
Whether she’s acting, producing, or simply celebrating with loved ones, Jamie Lee Curtis continues to engage with her audience on all fronts. Heartfelt, humorous, and refreshingly honest, she offers valuable insights on handling life’s pressures, the importance of personal fulfillment, and embracing every moment, holiday season or not.
