Emmy-winning actress Christina Applegate opens up about her struggles with multiple sclerosis, body image, and mental health.
Christina Applegate, known for her iconic roles in "Married... with Children" and "Dead to Me," has embarked on a journey of vulnerability, sharing her experiences with multiple sclerosis (MS) and the impact it has had on her life.
In a recent episode of her podcast, "MeSsy," Applegate revealed that she underwent plastic surgery at the age of 27 after a producer commented on the bags under her eyes. She explained that she felt pressured to remove them, even though they were a hereditary trait.
Christina Applegate Gets Candid: Plastic Surgery, Multiple Sclerosis, and the Darkness Within
"He goes, 'I suggest you get them removed,'" Applegate recalled. "I went under."
The actress expressed regret over the surgery, saying that the producer planted seeds of insecurity in her head.
Christina Applegate Gets Candid: Plastic Surgery, Multiple Sclerosis, and the Darkness Within
"I'm so angry at myself for doing that," she said. "I shouldn't have given an inch to what he said. I was young and impressionable, and I listened to the wrong people."
Applegate's battle with MS began in 2021, and she has since shared her experiences with the chronic condition candidly. She spoke about the isolation she feels when using a cane, a symbol of her condition.
Christina Applegate Gets Candid: Plastic Surgery, Multiple Sclerosis, and the Darkness Within
"I'm so ashamed to carry a cane," Applegate said. "I wish I wasn't that way, but I really struggle with it."
Fellow MS warrior and "Sopranos" star Jamie-Lynn Sigler echoed Applegate's sentiments, sharing her own struggles with self-consciousness and the fear of falling.
Christina Applegate Gets Candid: Plastic Surgery, Multiple Sclerosis, and the Darkness Within
"I don't know what would be worse—me falling or me being embarrassed," Sigler said.
In addition to her physical challenges, Applegate has also been vocal about her mental health struggles. In a previous episode of her podcast, she admitted to experiencing a "real, f--- it all depression" that scared her.
Christina Applegate Gets Candid: Plastic Surgery, Multiple Sclerosis, and the Darkness Within
"Like a real, f--- it all depression where it's kind of scaring me a little bit because it feels really fatalistic. I'm trapped in this darkness right now that I haven't felt like... I don't even know how long, probably 20 something years," she said.
Applegate's remarks sparked concern among fans, but she later clarified that she was "disturbed" by the "clickbait" surrounding her comments. She emphasized that it's normal to have moments of despair when living with a chronic illness.
Christina Applegate Gets Candid: Plastic Surgery, Multiple Sclerosis, and the Darkness Within
"You know? No, you have moments of feeling, 'This is tiring, and I don't wanna do this.' But you do it..." she said.
Applegate's journey serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and triumphs that people with chronic illnesses face. Her honesty and vulnerability inspire others to embrace their own journeys and seek support when needed.
