In a candid and heartfelt Twitter post in August 2021, Christina Applegate, known for her roles in various TV shows and movies, disclosed her recent diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). She wrote, “It’s been a strange journey. But I have been so supported by people that I know who also have this condition. It’s been a tough road. But as we all know, the road keeps going. Unless some a—— blocks it.” The actress requested privacy as she embarked on this unexpected journey.
Hi friends. A few months ago I was diagnosed with MS. It’s been a strange journey. But I have been so supported by people that I know who also have this condition. It’s been a tough road. But as we all know, the road keeps going. Unless some asshole blocks it.
— christina applegate (@1capplegate) August 10, 2021
Celebrating her 50th birthday a few months after her revelation, Applegate shared an uplifting message on social media. She wrote, “It’s been a hard one. Sending so much love to all of you this day. Many are hurting today, and I am thinking of you. May we find that strength to lift our heads up. Mine currently is on my pillow. But I try.” Her positive outlook became evident as she navigated through the complexities of living with MS.
November 2022: Hollywood Star and Barefoot Acceptance
In a remarkable public appearance, Applegate received her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in November 2022. She wore no shoes to the ceremony and explained on social media, “Barefoot. For some with MS, the feeling of shoes may hurt or make us feel off balance. So today I was me. Barefoot.” In her acceptance speech, she humorously acknowledged her condition, saying, “Oh, by the way, I have a disease. Did you not notice? I’m not even wearing shoes. Anyhoo, you’re supposed to laugh at that.”
Providing insight into her ongoing battle, Applegate spoke to Variety in June 2023 about the impact of MS on her acting career. She said, “We don’t know what my future as an actress is going to be. How can I handle it? How can I go onto a set and call the shots of what I need as far as my boundaries, physically?” Reflecting on early signs, such as balance issues during a dancing scene and diminishing tennis skills, she conveyed her frustration and anger towards the changes in her body. She added, “Acceptance? No. I’m never going to accept this. I’m pissed.”
January 2024: Humor Prevails at the Emmy Awards
Applegate made a special appearance at the 2024 Emmy Awards, eliciting both emotion and laughter from the audience. Acknowledging the standing ovation, she playfully teased the crowd, blending gratitude with her trademark humor. She said, “You’re totally shaming me with disability by standing up, it’s fine, OK,” and continued on to say, “Body not by Ozempic.”
Throughout her journey, Applegate leaned on the support of her friend and fellow actor Selma Blair, who also battles MS. Emphasizing the importance of humor, Applegate uses it as a shield to cope with the challenges. In a December 2022 interview on “The Kelly Clarkson Show,” she highlighted the significance of laughter in making others comfortable around her, saying on The Kelly Clarkson Show, “My humor shield keeps me OK. But of course, down on the insides, you feel the things. I do it to kind of deflect and also make people not scared to be around me.” She added, “When people see me now as a disabled person, I want them to feel comfortable that we can laugh about it.”
Closing Thoughts
Christina Applegate’s openness about her health challenges, from breast cancer in 2008 to multiple sclerosis in 2021, has resonated with many. Her journey, marked by resilience, humor, and vulnerability, serves as an inspiration to those facing similar adversities. As she continues to navigate the unpredictable path of living with MS, Applegate remains a beacon of strength, reminding us all of the power of humor and camaraderie in the face of life’s challenges.
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