In her highly anticipated memoir, Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old, Brooke Shields, 59, dives deep into her life, sharing candid insights about aging, her relationships,
and the obstacles she’s faced. Known for her career as a successful model and actress, Shields bares her soul in this book,
discussing personal matters with brutal honesty, from a traumatic miscarriage to uncomfortable surgical procedures she never consented to.
Released on January 14, the memoir offers readers an intimate glimpse into Shields’ world as she navigates life on the brink of 60, sharing her experiences, struggles, and revelations.
A Platform for Women Over 40
Shields’ memoir emerged from her work with her haircare brand, Commence, which focuses on women over 40.
What began as a platform to cater to this community transformed into a way for Shields to speak openly about the issues facing women of her age. “The book became an exploration of talking to women over 40, looking at marketing, the beauty industry, how we’re treated and perceived by advertisers — not just in entertainment, but in everyday life,” Shields explained during an event in New York on January 13. “I was shocked by the little representation we have.”
Her decision to write the book was also influenced by the encouragement of her agents, who pushed her to share her personal story for the benefit of women navigating similar struggles. It’s an exploration not only of aging but also of how society views women, particularly as they get older.
Tom Cruise Controversy: A Public Stand
One of the most talked-about moments from Shields’ memoir comes from her public feud with actor Tom Cruise in 2005. During a Today show appearance, Cruise criticized Shields for using antidepressants to cope with postpartum depression, calling her actions “irresponsible.” Shields took to The New York Times to write an op-ed, pushing back against Cruise’s remarks, standing up for women who face similar struggles. She recalled firing her publicist after the incident, saying, “I was sticking up for myself, and for women who were suffering, against irrational and dangerous comments from an unschooled actor who was speaking way out of his depth.”
While Cruise did eventually apologize, Shields admitted that it wasn’t the most heartfelt apology. “He came to my house and said he was sorry,” she shared. “It wasn’t the world’s best apology, but it’s what he was capable of.”
A Difficult Miscarriage and a Surprising Surgery
Shields also opens up about a heartbreaking miscarriage she suffered after a medical procedure that had unforeseen consequences. After undergoing a cone biopsy for abnormal cells found in her cervix, Shields had difficulty getting pregnant. Her first round of IVF was successful, but she miscarried violently, describing the experience as “the worst twelve straight hours of my life.” She later learned that the cone biopsy, which removed a significant portion of her cervix, was likely responsible for both the miscarriage and her challenges with conception.
Additionally, Shields reveals a shocking experience with a gynecologist who performed an unrequested labial rejuvenation procedure. Shields initially sought help for discomfort but discovered after the surgery that the doctor had performed an unnecessary cosmetic procedure without her consent. She describes her feelings of violation, stating, “There was a real ‘I threw this in for free, little lady’ vibe to his delivery.”
Struggles with Body Image and Relationships
Throughout her life, Shields has faced body insecurities, often criticized for not fitting the mold of the “ideal” runway model. She reflects on her marriage to tennis star Andre Agassi, revealing that during their union, he would comment on her body in ways that left lasting emotional scars. Shields recalls asking if he would still love her if she gained weight, to which Agassi’s response was: “I love you too much to let you get big and fat.” Reflecting on the relationship, Shields notes, “I definitely did not see that coming.”
Aging and Intimacy
As she ages, Shields discusses the changes in her sex life, particularly how it has been affected by her past surgeries. While her younger years were marked by a “fervent sex drive,” she admits that intimacy has become less frequent and more difficult. She humorously describes needing “lotions and potions” to enjoy sex, along with specific sleepwear, a pillow, and sometimes a glass of tequila to help her relax. She also mentions that her doctor suggested testosterone therapy, though she hasn’t taken that step yet.
Shields’ memoir is a raw and honest exploration of aging, love, motherhood, and body image, offering readers a chance to see the real woman behind the public persona. As she nears her 60th birthday, Shields continues to challenge societal norms, proving that aging is something to be embraced, not feared. With her memoir, she not only shares her personal journey but also gives a voice to women who are often overlooked by mainstream media. Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old is now available for readers looking for an unfiltered account of one woman’s experience with life’s complexities and triumphs.
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