Christina Applegate recently sat down for an interview with Robin Roberts on Good Morning America, where she opened up about the profound impact that multiple sclerosis (MS) has had on her life. She described living with MS as “living in hell,” highlighting the challenges that she faces on a daily basis. Despite being only 52 years old, attending public events like the 2024 Emmy Awards has become a Herculean task for Christina, who bravely confronts the realities of her condition with grace and courage.
During her time at the Emmy Awards ceremony, where she presented the award for Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, Christina admitted to feeling overwhelmed. She mentioned that she even blacked out, not remembering what she said during her presentation. However, the warm reception and standing ovation that she received from the audience provided a moment of solace for her. Despite the difficulties she faces, Christina expressed gratitude for the support and encouragement she has received from those around her.
Christina’s journey with MS began with the onset of symptoms at the age of 40, a stark contrast to Jamie-Lynn Sigler, who was diagnosed at the age of 20. The progressive nature of the disease has forced Christina to contemplate her future in acting, as she is uncertain about how her condition may deteriorate over time. She spoke candidly about the challenges she faces in her daily life, from simple tasks like going down the stairs to carrying things, which she can no longer do. Christina admitted that dealing with the limitations imposed by MS “sucks,” highlighting the harsh reality of living with a degenerative disease.
As she navigates the challenges of MS, Christina has had to make significant adjustments in her life. She now relies on a friend and a caretaker to assist with caring for her daughter, Sadie. Due to her compromised immune system, she avoids crowded places and limits stimulation to keep her nervous system in check. These sacrifices have extended to her professional life, as her diagnosis just before the production of the final season of Dead to Me in 2021 presented unforeseen challenges. Dealing with weight gain from medication and immobility, Christina faced a new set of obstacles that impacted her ability to continue working on-camera.
Despite the challenges she faces, Christina expressed deep admiration for her Dead to Me co-star, Linda Cardellini. She mentioned that she may not work on-camera again, but she was grateful to have had the opportunity to work alongside someone whom she considers the greatest actress she has ever known. Christina’s journey with MS has been marked by moments of hardship and resilience, as she navigates the uncertain path ahead with grace and determination. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength and courage required to face life’s toughest challenges.