Christina Applegate Says ‘Married With Children’ Worsened Her Anorexia
Christina Applegate’s highly anticipated memoir, “You With the Sad Eyes,” is set to be released on March 3. An exclusive excerpt of the book is now available to read on Vulture, where the Emmy-winning actress opens up about her struggles with body image during her time filming “Married… with Children.”
Applegate, who portrayed the iconic character Kelly Bundy on the classic Fox sitcom for all 11 seasons, initially turned down the role after finding the script to be lacking in substance. However, after reluctantly watching the pilot with her mother, she found herself unable to resist the comedic charm of the show. Despite her reservations, she eventually embraced the role that would come to define her career.
Prior to landing the role of Kelly Bundy, Applegate had already been battling body dysmorphia and anorexia. The pressure to maintain a specific look for the character only exacerbated her existing struggles with her body image. She recounts how she would go to extreme lengths to stay thin, often restricting her food intake to dangerous levels.
The actress reflects on the demanding physical regimen she put herself through, including intense workouts and strict dieting, all in pursuit of an unattainable standard of perfection. As the show progressed, the costumes for Kelly became increasingly revealing, with outfits that showcased her bare midriff and emphasized her physical appearance.
Despite the challenges she faced, Applegate does not harbor any resentment towards the show or its creators. She acknowledges the impact that playing Kelly had on her mental health and eating habits, attributing it to unresolved trauma from her past. She emphasizes that she was just a young actor navigating a complex industry, unaware of the implications of her on-screen persona.
As she prepares to share her story in “You With the Sad Eyes,” Applegate’s memoir promises to offer a candid and introspective look at her journey in Hollywood. For those eager to delve deeper into her experiences, the full excerpt is available on Vulture’s website.
The publication of Christina Applegate’s memoir marks a significant moment in her career, shedding light on the personal struggles she faced behind the scenes of one of television’s most beloved sitcoms. Her willingness to share her story serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and self-acceptance in an industry that often prioritizes appearances over well-being.
