Let’s talk about Renée Zellweger for a moment. The legendary actress is making waves with her jaw-dropping portrayal of Judy Garland in the latest biographical film, but what you might not know is how deeply she relates to the struggles Garland faced. Renée, who recently turned 50, sat down with Herald Square to share her thoughts on why she took a six-year break from Hollywood and how she found herself drawn to Garland’s story. It’s a conversation filled with honesty, vulnerability, and a deep understanding of the pressures that come with life in the spotlight.
Why Renée Stepped Away from the Spotlight
In an era where celebrities are expected to be constantly in the public eye, Renée made the bold decision to step back from the limelight for six years. During her candid interview, she explained, “I wanted to take some time to consider my own humanity. It was important for me to live a normal life, even if it meant simply going to the coffee shop and being just another person ordering a cup of coffee.” This break wasn’t just about taking a breather; it was about rediscovering herself outside of the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.
Renée went on to express her empathy for Judy Garland, whose life was shaped by decisions made on her behalf by people who didn’t fully understand the impact of their choices. “There’s definitely a connection there,” Renée explained. “Garland’s life was heavily influenced by people who, while well-intentioned, lacked the insight to guide her properly. Many of those decisions ended up being detrimental to her in the long run.”
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Renée’s Journey Back to Herself
This isn’t the first time Renée has opened up about her time away from Hollywood. She’s been candid about the challenges she faced, including battling depression. “I wasn’t healthy. I wasn’t taking care of myself. I was the last thing on my list of priorities,” she admitted in a past interview with Vulture. It was a turning point for her, leading her to seek therapy for the first time. “My therapist helped me realize that I had spent almost my entire life living as a public persona. There was very little room left for my real self,” Renée shared.
She continued, “I needed to stop always having a plan. I needed to allow myself the space to breathe, to let accidents happen. I wanted quiet so that ideas could naturally flow into my life. It was about rediscovering who I am outside of the spotlight.” During this time, Renée also made a conscious effort to stay away from the media, giving herself the opportunity to heal and grow in private.
“As artists, we often face criticism not just about our work but about who we are as people,” Renée reflected. “When that criticism becomes overwhelming, it can be tough. But I’ve learned that even when you feel like your skin isn’t thick enough, you can still survive. I’ve been through the toughest moments, and here I am, stronger than ever.”
Judy is now playing in theaters everywhere. Don’t miss Renée Zellweger’s incredible performance as one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures.
