Naomi Watts, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in iconic films like King Kong and Mulholland Drive, is stepping into the spotlight in a different way.
At 56, she’s sharing her journey through aging, menopause, and personal growth in her new book, Dare I Say It: Everything I Wish I’d Known About Menopause.
With honesty, humor, and wisdom, Watts reflects on her life, her relationship with husband Billy Crudup, and the challenges of navigating menopause in a society that often shies away from the topic.
Naomi Watts on Family, Career, and Openness
Watts, a mother to two teenagers, Sasha (17) and Kai (16), isn’t afraid to be candid about the challenges of parenting while embracing life’s transitions.
In an interview with PEOPLE, she revealed a humorous yet awkward moment when one of her children stumbled upon her glow-in-the-dark vibrator. “It was embarrassing for my teenager and me,” she admits. “But it wasn’t surprising. My kids are used to me being open about topics others might avoid.”
Her openness extends to her professional life as well. Over the years, Watts has become a leading voice in advocating for conversations about menopause, a topic often considered taboo.
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But it wasn’t always this way. Reflecting on her early struggles, Watts recalls her shock when, at 36, she experienced symptoms of early menopause while trying to conceive her children with then-partner Liev Schreiber. “I spent years living in secrecy and shame,” she says, recounting her struggles with night sweats, migraines, and mood swings.
Naomi Watts and Billy Crudup: A Love Story
Watts’ relationship with actor Billy Crudup, whom she met on the set of the Netflix series Gypsy, has been another source of strength. The couple married in 2023, and their bond is marked by love and understanding.
In her book, Watts recounts a touching moment before their first night together when she nervously tried to hide her hormone patch. Crudup’s response? A humorous and heartfelt reassurance: “If it makes you feel better, I’ve got gray hairs on my balls.”
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Watts describes this as “the most romantic thing I’ve ever heard.” For her, this moment symbolized the importance of being seen, heard, and loved for who she truly is.
Breaking the Silence on Menopause
Watts’ book, Dare I Say It, is part memoir, part advice manual, and a call to normalize conversations about menopause. She also created Stripes Beauty, a skincare and wellness brand focused on menopause, to help women navigate this phase of life with confidence.
In her book, Watts addresses the misconceptions surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which she credits with helping her regain control over her health.
She emphasizes the importance of education and open dialogue, saying, “Women have been taught not to complain, to suck it up. But you don’t have to suffer in silence.”
Watts also highlights the societal stigma around aging, particularly for women in the entertainment industry. “The message that women are past their expiration date once their eggs are gone is still ingrained,” she says. “But experience and time matter. Women have so much to offer at every stage of life.”
Naomi Watts’ Reflection on Aging and Reinvention
Watts has embraced the idea of reinvention, finding empowerment in vulnerability. “What if the point of menopause is to break up with our former self?” she asks. For Watts, this phase of life has brought more confidence, stronger friendships, and greater self-compassion.
“I’m not the same woman I was when I was younger,” she says. “I’ve stopped comparing myself to others. I’m kinder to myself and more confident in what I like and dislike.”
Her message to women is clear: Embrace the transition, and don’t let societal expectations define you.
Naomi Watts’ Career and Legacy
With a career spanning decades, Watts continues to shine in Hollywood. She recently earned Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for her performance in Feud: Capote vs. the Swans, which she describes as a career highlight.
Despite her success, she remains grounded and focused on using her platform to inspire others.
Through her book, Stripes Beauty, and candid interviews, Watts is changing the narrative around menopause and aging. She hopes her work will empower women to feel seen, heard, and supported.
Naomi Watts: A Role Model for All Ages
As Naomi Watts continues to balance her thriving career, family life, and advocacy work, she proves that age is no barrier to growth, reinvention, or impact. Whether it’s her touching love story with Billy Crudup, her journey through menopause, or her reflections on aging, Watts is a shining example of resilience and empowerment.
For more about Naomi Watts’ life, career, and advocacy, check out her book Dare I Say It: Everything I Wish I’d Known About Menopause.