This Iconic Actress Just Turned 85 and Shuts Down Critics with Stunning New Photos
For years, this famous actress faced constant pressure to lose weight, even missing out on roles because of her size. Now, at 85, she embraces self-love and acceptance, showing that true beauty comes from within.
She became famous for her undeniable talent, earning praise for her roles in many films. But behind the scenes, she struggled with the pressure to maintain the ideal “leading lady” image.
Over the years, this iconic actress faced many challenges—being told to lose weight and constantly fighting Hollywood’s obsession with thinness. Despite this, she now radiates confidence and beauty, showing how far she has come.
Her career took off in the 1960s, when she starred in unforgettable films like Midnight Cowboy and Once Is Not Enough. These roles earned her critical acclaim, including an Emmy win in 1974 for her work in The Shape of Things. Yet, the pressure to be thin was always looming over her, and the industry’s obsession with perfection took a toll.
In a 2015 interview, she discussed her career and achievements, reflecting on whether the recognition she received would hold the same value today. She said, “No, I don’t think so.” Despite this, she noted how special winning the Academy Award in 1975 for Once Is Not Enough would have been—though the honor went to Lee Grant for Shampoo. She laughed, recalling how Grant jokingly said, “Well honey, I’m older.”
During her career, she also had a memorable romance with actor Michael Douglas. The two met while filming Summertree, and their connection was instant. She fondly described him as a “handsome colt.” Their seven-year relationship was unique and full of love, and they even had a simple, hippie-style wedding in her agent’s backyard.
However, despite their love story, she often struggled with the industry’s expectations. Hollywood constantly pushed her to lose weight, and she had to face these challenges head-on. Her love for food, particularly pasta, often clashed with the pressure to stay slim.
Determined to take control of her career and self-image, she enrolled in UCLA’s Optifast program, shedding 37 pounds in just six weeks. The transformation made her feel both physically and mentally stronger. Yet, she also revealed the harsh realities of the business, saying, “I’ve been told dozens of times they want me to be thin for my roles.”
She humorously reflected on the extremes of Hollywood’s beauty standards, calling herself “Bulbous Brenda” when she was heavier and “Reedy Wilma” after her weight loss. Despite the pressures, she eventually found peace in her personal life, embracing her individuality and well-being.
As the years passed, she stopped trying to meet impossible standards and started to appreciate her natural beauty. She became known for her timeless elegance and self-assurance, showing everyone that confidence and grace only grow with age.
Brenda Vaccaro’s journey is a testament to resilience and self-acceptance. Even at 85, she continues to inspire others with her vibrant spirit and unwavering confidence. She has shown that age is just a number, and beauty shines brightest when we accept and love ourselves for who we truly are.
Now, at this stage in her life, she doesn’t feel the need to prove anything to anyone. “If it comes, that’s fine. If it doesn’t, I’m marching on,” she said, reflecting on her career. Her outlook on aging is refreshingly positive: “I don’t think of age, I just don’t. I feel 15.”
Though she acknowledges the changes that come with getting older, such as physical challenges and loss, she faces them with dignity and acceptance. “These things have to be accepted with grace,” she says, demonstrating her ability to embrace life fully, no matter what it throws her way.
Brenda’s journey serves as a reminder that beauty and confidence are timeless, and that self-love is the key to living a fulfilling life. Despite the obstacles she faced, she has shown that true beauty comes from within, proving to all that confidence and self-acceptance never age.
