Jane Fonda made a candid appearance on Michelle Obama’s podcast, “IMO,” where she opened up about aging, her fears, and the wisdom she’s gained throughout her life. At 87, the iconic actress reflected on what she considers her “final act,” expressing a desire to embrace this stage without regrets.
During the conversation, Fonda shared that she is not afraid of death but rather the thought of passing away carrying unresolved issues. She emphasized the importance of being surrounded by loved ones when her time comes, a sentiment she has nurtured by committing to forgiveness and reconciliation over the past three decades. “I’m afraid of dying with a lot of regrets,” Fonda stated, recalling her father’s death and the lessons it imparted about living life to the fullest.
As she discussed her journey, Fonda mentioned that she had once believed she wouldn’t live past 30 due to a tumultuous upbringing and her mother’s early death. Despite this, she expressed astonishment at her longevity and the clarity that comes with age. Fonda underscored the significance of living intentionally, stating that she wants her final years to be free of the burdens of second-guessing and unresolved emotions.
Michelle Obama’s episode focused on “finding wisdom, joy, and purpose as we get older,” echoing Fonda’s sentiments on embracing every life chapter. Fonda’s reflections serve as a reminder for many about the value of living authentically and cherishing relationships, reinforcing a hopeful perspective on aging.