Sally Field has always been known for her resilience both on and off-screen, and she’s recently made headlines for shutting down critics who’ve called her “ugly.” The 78-year-old actress, who has been a beloved figure in Hollywood for decades with roles in iconic films like Forrest Gump, Mrs. Doubtfire, and Steel Magnolias, has consistently defied Hollywood’s unrealistic beauty standards. Despite facing the inevitable challenges that come with aging in the public eye, Field refuses to let cruel online trolls dictate how she feels about her appearance.

In a bold stance against ageism, Field has chosen to embrace the natural process of growing older. In a 2016 interview with Good Housekeeping, she revealed that she had accepted her identity as an “old woman” and proudly chose to age naturally. While acknowledging that she occasionally notices the changes in her body, like puffier eyes or her neck starting to sag, she rejects the pressure to undergo surgery or other procedures to reverse time. Field believes in respecting her current self rather than chasing an unattainable version of the past.

However, her decision to age naturally hasn’t come without its challenges. Online trolls have been quick to criticize her looks, calling her “ugly” and making cruel remarks about her appearance. These negative comments, unfortunately, are common in the celebrity world, but they don’t faze Field. Instead of allowing the negativity to take a toll, she has taken a confident approach, continuing to show pride in the aging process and embracing the wisdom that comes with age.

Field’s journey through aging also includes her battle with osteoporosis, a condition she was diagnosed with in 2005. Despite leading a healthy lifestyle and maintaining an active routine, the actress found herself facing the challenges that many women experience with bone density loss as they age. While she had always been aware of her risk factors, the diagnosis still came as a surprise, emphasizing the unpredictability of aging. Field has been open about this struggle, although she rarely speaks about it publicly.

Through it all, Sally Field remains a shining example of strength, grace, and authenticity. Instead of succumbing to the unrealistic expectations placed on women in Hollywood, she has chosen to be true to herself. Whether it’s responding to online critics or dealing with her own health battles, Field continues to prove that true beauty comes from within and that aging naturally is something to be celebrated.