Jessie Buckley Opens Up
Oscar-nominated actress Jessie Buckley shared a candid account of her teenage struggle with an eating disorder, revealing that acting provided the creative outlet she needed to overcome it. Her story, told in a recent interview, offers hope and solidarity for those facing similar challenges. Buckley's openness highlights how creative expression can serve as healing.
The candid interview was with Lauren Laverne for BBC Radio 4's "Desert Island Discs." Buckley, 36, spoke about her teenage years in Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland, revealing her struggles with both an eating disorder and depression. She has been in therapy weekly since she was 17 years old. Buckley's journey into the spotlight began in 2008 as a contestant on the BBC talent show "I'd Do Anything," where she competed for the role of Nancy in a West End revival of "Oliver!". Though she finished as the runner-up, the experience was formative. She later spoke about receiving criticism for her appearance during her time on the show. The Irish actress credits her love of music and theatre as crucial to her recovery, calling acting "essential" for her wellbeing. She recalled a time her appendix nearly burst during an early stage performance and she refused to leave until the play was finished, later realizing how vital her creative passion was to her will to "survive." Buckley has since built a critically acclaimed career, earning an Olivier Award for her role in "Cabaret" and an Oscar nomination for "The Lost Daughter." Her recent starring role as Agnes Shakespeare in the film "Hamnet" has garnered numerous awards, including a Golden Globe. She stars opposite Paul Mescal in the film, which is an adaptation of Maggie O'Farrell's best-selling novel.
