Hollywood icon Diane Keaton, renowned for her accomplishments as an actor, author, director, and singer, has opened up about the challenges she faces in dealing with unsolicited judgments from the public. Despite her stature and long career in the entertainment industry, Keaton's experience sheds light on the impact of online criticism on even the most respected figures, especially if they are dealing with an eating disorder.
The actress was once the target of a callously written message online after a Golden Globe appearance in January 2014. Keaton got on stage to accept a Cecille B. DeMille Award for Woody Allen, but a fan pointed out that she "got fat," while another remarked that she was "ugly inside and out."
Yet, the significance of these comments went beyond their initial impact. Keaton courageously revealed in an episode of "Dr. Oz" in May 2014 that she had a toxic relationship with food and suffered from bulimia. Keaton's struggle with body image and food consumption had always been an ongoing challenge.
From her early days on stage to her breakout role in "The Godfather”(1972), Keaton has left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Her portrayal of complex characters in films like "Annie Hall” (1977) and "Father of the Bride" (1991) earned her acclaim, including an Academy Award and a Golden Globe. She's been celebrated for her work ethic and her ability to bring depth to her roles.
Keaton's on-screen partnerships with renowned actors such as Al Pacino, Woody Allen, and Jack Nicholson not only showcased her versatile acting skills but also provided a glimpse into her captivating personality. Her relationships with some of Hollywood's leading men garnered attention, but Keaton remained focused on her craft.
Behind the scenes, Keaton grappled with a severe eating disorder. This condition, often fueled by societal pressures and personal insecurities, took a toll on her physical and emotional well-being. The actress candidly discussed her struggle with bulimia, revealing that she would consume massive amounts of food and then purge in order to maintain a certain appearance.
"All I did was feed my hunger. So I was an addict," Keaton said, as Dr. Oz told her she was binging on 20,000 calories a day and then purged everything.
"Typical dinner was a bucket of chicken, several orders of fries with blue cheese and ketchup, a couple TV dinners, a quart of soda, pounds of candy, a whole cake, and three banana cream pies,” Keaton detailed.
This cycle of addiction, self-destructiveness, and secrecy, which started early on in her career, lasted for decades until someone told her that she might be struggling with a mental health issue as well. So, Keaton went to a therapist five days a week but admitted she lied to the expert for a full year.
"One day I stopped," Keaton said. "I never, ever did it again. I just stopped and I don't even know why."
Keaton then became an advocate for self-acceptance and embracing natural aging. When she reached 50 years old, she decided to be a single mother with two adopted kids.
She has boldly proclaimed in an essay she wrote on Daily Beast that she is unafraid to show her "battle scars" of aging, a sentiment that resonates with many who seek to break free from the constraints of societal expectations. Keaton’s ability to confront her inner struggles made her a role model for women struggling with body issues.
Despite the hurtful comments, Diane Keaton exuded self-assuredness that showed her strength and resilience. Isn't it wonderful that she has overcome her body image issues? Do you know someone who can relate to Keaton's experience? Pass this story along to them!
If you or anyone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, please visit Eating Disorder Hope for more information on hotlines and help in your location.