Brooke Shields, now 58, has spent over five decades in the entertainment industry, navigating both the highs and lows that come with fame. From being the youngest model to grace the cover of Vogue at just 14, to starring in provocative Calvin Klein ads at 16, her career has been marked by both acclaim and controversy. Shields has been candid about her personal struggles, including experiences with postpartum depression, exploitation, and objectification within the industry. Through her advocacy for women’s rights and mental health awareness, she continues to use her platform to champion greater representation and equality for women.
Shields's journey in the spotlight began early. In 1980, she became the youngest model to appear on the cover of Vogue. This milestone was followed by a series of Calvin Klein ads at age 16 that highlighted her sexuality and significantly shaped her career. However, these early experiences also exposed her to the darker side of fame and exploitation. Shields has openly discussed being forced to pose nude at 12 and being raped by a Hollywood executive in her 20s, sharing her story to highlight the need for change in the industry.
The actress has also been vocal about her struggles with postpartum depression after the birth of her first daughter in 2003. In her book documenting these challenges, Shields offers insight into the complexities of mental health and motherhood. Her openness has helped destigmatize discussions around mental health, emphasizing the importance of awareness and support. Shields's advocacy extends beyond personal experiences as she consistently speaks out against the objectification of women in entertainment.
A twice-married mother of two, Shields married tennis player Andre Agassi and later screenwriter Chris Henchy, with whom she shares her daughters. Despite the challenges she faced, she remains resilient, attributing her strength to her early experiences.
"I don't pity her. I feel like a lot was unfortunate, but the way I lived through it and weathered it, I think formed my character, a character that I started very quickly to learn to rely on."
Reflecting on her journey, Shields acknowledges the impact of fame on mental health and self-esteem, particularly with the rise of social media. She has been a vocal critic of how women are treated in the entertainment industry and emphasizes the need for greater equality and representation.
"Fame is weird. It can mess with your head. You get, 'My God, I love you and I thought you were dead!'"
Shields's resilience and determination to own her story are evident in her writings and public appearances. Her book "Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed To Get Old" delves into her experiences with fame and aging, offering a candid look at her life in Hollywood. Through numerous talk show appearances, she has shared insights on her journey, from enduring judgment to confronting personal challenges head-on.
"Cry about it, feel mad, hurt, do whatever, but then get on with it."
Shields continues to advocate for women's rights and health. She highlights the importance of mental health awareness and supports initiatives that encourage open dialogue about these issues. Her experiences have shaped her perspective on fame and self-worth, prompting her to speak out against societal pressures on women.
"Whenever I started to feel broken down by the fatigue or the vitriol or the judgment and then later with social media, I looked at that little girl and I thought, she was going to survive no matter what."