Jennifer Love Hewitt, known for her roles in “Heartbreakers” and “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” has recently addressed the challenges of aging in Hollywood, focusing on the backlash she received for using filters in her social media posts.
In a candid discussion on the “Inside of You” podcast on December 5, 2023, the 44-year-old actress delved into the complexities and criticisms she has faced in the entertainment industry, especially related to her appearance.
The incident sparking this discussion occurred in August when she shared a makeup-free video of herself, leading to claims by fans and critics that she looked “unrecognizable.”
In response, she posted photos with exaggerated cartoon filters, including one that portrayed her as a child, in an attempt to humorously counter the criticism. However, this move was also met with negativity, with people accusing her of defending herself unnecessarily and endorsing unrealistic beauty standards. Hewitt addressed these issues on the podcast, expressing that the negativity does affect her, despite efforts to ignore such comments.
Her struggle with public perception and self-image is not new. She reflected on her earlier years in Hollywood, recalling how she was labeled “sexy” at the age of 17 on the cover of Maxim magazine, a concept she didn’t fully grasp at the time.
She said that even though she was considered attractive at 23-25 years old, she did not feel confident or comfortable in her own skin, feeling constantly observed and pressured to meet everyone’s expectations.
The actress also pointed out the dichotomy between the public’s desire to preserve celebrities in their youthful state and the natural process of aging. This pressure, she mentioned, is particularly acute because she is a mother, highlighting the negative impact such societal standards can have, especially on women and girls. Hewitt expressed concern over the message this sends to her daughter and other young girls, emphasizing the harmful effects of unrealistic beauty expectations.
Despite the challenges, she also acknowledged the positive attention and support she has received over the years. She mentioned that many of her fans have grown up with her and now share similar experiences related to aging and life changes. This shared journey with her audience provides a sense of connection and mutual understanding.
