Christina Applegate Reveals Eating Disorder Struggles During ‘Married … with Children’
Christina Applegate disclosed this week that the immense pressure to appear beautiful and alluring while starring on “Married … with Children” contributed to her grappling with an eating disorder.
“Playing that character kind of did things to me in my psyche that were no bueno – like anorexia,” the 53-year-old shared on her “MeSsy” podcast during a conversation with former co-star Katey Sagal.
Applegate reflected on how a severe eating disorder took root while she was on the show, lasting for years. During that time, she maintained a veil of secrecy, never confiding in anyone about her struggle, remaining “very private about it.”
The Hidden Turmoil Behind the Scene
Amid the joy of fame and recognition, Applegate often felt a deep shame surrounding her eating habits. “I would hide in bathrooms to eat, because I had so much shame around eating that I would hide on the airplanes,” she recounted. “I remember hiding in there to eat like one shrimp, ’cause I was so afraid if anyone saw me eat that they’d think I was going to try to get fat or something.” These words reveal an overwhelming emotional burden, the weight of which few can truly understand. Sagal, who portrayed Applegate’s onscreen mother, admitted she had no idea what Applegate was going through during those formative years.
The Misunderstood Role of a Sex Symbol
Being labeled a “sex symbol” at the tender age of 17 brought a barrage of societal expectations, which Sagal described as mentally taxing. “It would ‘f— with’ anyone’s head,” she said, acknowledging the misogynistic undertones present in the show. As Applegate noted, producers put her in increasingly provocative outfits that she had suggested, illustrating the fine line between self-expression and external pressures.
Initially conceived as a “tough biker girl,” Applegate drew inspiration from a girl featured in the documentary “The Decline of Western Civilization: Part II: The Metal Years.” This character evolution shaped her belief that she needed to “represent the zeitgeist of this rock, slutty video vixen thing,” ultimately leading her down a path fraught with personal struggles. But reflecting on this, Applegate acknowledged the irony of her early choices and their lasting impacts.
Confronting the Shadows of Fame
Years later, Applegate looked back at the overwhelming scrutiny surrounding her appearance, saying that people seemed more interested in her looks than her talent. “I was wearing bells around my ankles and moccasins and wearing patchouli,” she said, a stark contrast to the provocative persona she was later known for. This duality revealed itself in unexpected moments during her time on the show, as friends and colleagues began to notice her unsettling relationship with food.
On her podcast, Applegate had previously opened up about how she deprived herself of food for years, likening it to “f—ing torture.” During that period, she felt enormous pressure, but ironically, she expressed feeling “enormous” even while wearing size zero garments. It’s a tragic manifestation of how twisted self-image can be amidst the bright lights of fame. She revealed that cast members noticed her unusual eating habits, which, in retrospect, must have been difficult for all involved.
A Shared Reflection on the Industry
Sagal reminisced about their time on the show, reflecting on Applegate’s desire to have a “normal” existence. Growing up as a child actress often means navigating a world far removed from standard teenage experiences, something Sagal found hard to fathom. Yet Applegate’s keen desire for normalcy showcased her vulnerability in a tough industry.
As they shared their thoughts, the women discussed how roles for both of their characters became more superficial over time. “Kelly couldn’t open a door once,” Applegate laughed, bringing some levity to a serious topic, but also revealing the humorous absurdity that accompanied the pressures of the role.
As they reflected on their experiences, Applegate recognized the importance of genuine connections she built with Sagal and Ed O’Neill on the set. Instead of being treated like a young star, Applegate appreciated the grounding influence of her co-stars. This dynamic played a crucial role in surviving the tumultuous journey of fame.
Amid the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, stories like Applegate’s shed light on the darker realities of celebrity culture. The shadows that linger behind a shining facade often weigh heavier than the spotlight itself. It’s a reminder that every star has a story that goes beyond the surface and warrants understanding.
