Jamie Lee Curtis is an American actress, producer, and children’s author. Renowned for her work in horror and slasher films—a subgenre involving killers stalking and murdering victims, often with sharp weapons—Curtis has earned the title of a “scream queen,” a term used for actresses who are prominent and influential in horror cinema. Beyond the genre, she has also built a successful career in comedy.

Curtis has received numerous accolades throughout her career, including an Academy Award, a BAFTA Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, two Golden Globe Awards, and two Screen Actors Guild Awards. She has also been nominated for a Grammy Award and an Independent Spirit Award.

Despite her accomplishments, Curtis recently opened up in a candid 60 Minutes interview about a painful experience early in her career that led her to make a decision she has regretted ever since.

While working on the 1985 film Perfect, directed by James Bridges and co-starring John Travolta, Curtis encountered harsh criticism from the film’s cinematographer. “He was like, ‘I am not shooting her today because her eyes are baggy,’” Curtis recalled. “I was 25. For him to say that was very embarrassing.”

The comment deeply affected her, prompting her to undergo plastic surgery immediately after the film wrapped.

When asked how the procedure went, Curtis responded, “Not well. That’s just not what you want to do when you’re 25 or 26. I regretted it immediately and have regretted it ever since—especially now, as a public advocate for women. I always tell them, ‘You’re gorgeous and perfect the way you are.’”

Curtis also shared how the experience led to a period of personal struggle. “They give you painkillers,” she said. “I became very enamored with the warm bath of an opioid. I drank a little bit. I was very quiet and private about it. But it became a dependency, for sure.”

Now in her 60s, Curtis has become a vocal advocate for self-acceptance and body positivity, often speaking out against the pressures of perfection in Hollywood.


Jamie Lee Curtis’ story is a powerful reminder of the damaging effects of unrealistic beauty standards and industry pressure. Her vulnerability not only sheds light on the emotional consequences of such experiences but also inspires others to embrace authenticity. Today, she uses her platform to empower women and promote the message that self-worth isn’t defined by appearance—but by resilience, confidence, and self-love.