Brooke Shields’ newest memoir, Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old: Thoughts on Aging as a Woman, offers a powerful exploration of the challenges and triumphs of aging, particularly as a woman in the public eye. Released on January 14, the book is an unfiltered reflection on society’s often critical view of women growing older and a celebration of embracing life’s later chapters with confidence.
The title of the memoir was inspired by an unexpected moment during a cocktail party Shields attended with her daughter. Engaging in a lighthearted conversation about wine, she jokingly compared herself to a 1965 Barolo, describing herself as “jam at this point.” The man she was speaking to suddenly changed his tone and remarked, “You really shouldn’t have told me that.” What initially seemed like a fleeting comment sparked a deeper realization for Shields about how society perceives aging, particularly when it comes to women. “We imprint on people at certain ages,” she explained. “When they grow older, we’re not ready for it. But I think it’s courageous to get older.”
Macmillan Publishers
The book also chronicles Shields’ journey to becoming the CEO of her own haircare company, Commence, at the age of 58. The company, which began as a platform for women, grew into a business dedicated to addressing the unique needs of women over 40. While her agents encouraged her to document this milestone in a book, Shields initially hesitated, questioning why it should be extraordinary for a woman in her fifties to embark on a new endeavor. This reflection became the foundation for her memoir, which examines the intersection of aging, confidence, and societal expectations.
Throughout the book, Shields tackles misconceptions about aging, including the notion that women “have had a good run” and are no longer relevant past a certain age. She challenges these stereotypes, highlighting the empowerment and resilience of women over 40. “Every single woman I know who’s over 40 is absolutely fabulous,” she said, emphasizing that this phase of life is a time for reinvention and self-discovery.
Shields also explores how the beauty and marketing industries contribute to the underrepresentation of older women. Through conversations with women across various fields, she reveals a pervasive sense of being overlooked and undervalued. Despite this, Shields sees aging as an opportunity to celebrate achievements and embrace the freedom that comes with experience. “There’s a joy in realizing you’ve made it this far and wanting to do more,” she reflected.
As she approaches her 60th birthday, Shields’ perspective on aging remains grounded and optimistic. Rather than planning an extravagant celebration, she looks forward to spending time with her daughters, Rowan and Grier, and cherishing the simple joys of life. Shields’ vision for this milestone reflects the core message of her memoir: aging is not something to fear or hide but a journey to embrace fully.
Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old is a heartfelt and empowering reminder that aging is not a limitation but a testament to growth, courage, and resilience. By sharing her story, Shields offers inspiration to women everywhere to redefine aging on their terms, reject societal pressures, and find strength in the wisdom and confidence that come with time.
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