Jessie Buckley: Music & Theatre Helped Me Overcome Eating Disorder & Depression
Jessie Buckley, the acclaimed Irish actor currently riding a wave of critical success, has opened up about a challenging period in her adolescence, revealing a struggle with both an eating disorder and depression. In a candid conversation on BBC Radio 4’s Desert Island Discs, Buckley, 36, detailed how her passion for music and theatre ultimately provided a lifeline during a tough time.
“I had an eating disorder and it took time, and it took a lot of help, and similarly it was depression,” Buckley shared with host Lauren Laverne. She emphasized that despite the pain of that period, she doesn’t regret the experience, viewing it as a formative part of her journey. “I didn’t know how to be alive the way I wanted to be, and it was difficult, but I do not for a second regret it, and I think I’ve been able to transform it and recognise our vulnerabilities as humans in the world.”
Buckley’s ability to find solace and strength in the arts is a recurring theme in her narrative. She described how acting, music, and theatre became “essential” to her wellbeing, comparing the creative process to a fundamental need. She recounted a story of nearly being hospitalized after her appendix “almost burst” during an early performance, but refusing to leave until the play was finished, illustrating the depth of her commitment.
The actor, originally from Killarney, Co. Kerry, has been in therapy since the age of 17 and continues to attend weekly sessions. This ongoing commitment to mental health underscores the seriousness with which she approaches her wellbeing and the lasting impact of her earlier struggles. “You know, you can’t walk through life not being affected, but you can transform that into something that allows you to be more human and alive in the way that you want to be,” she explained.
Buckley’s recent professional triumphs offer a compelling counterpoint to her past challenges. She has received significant recognition for her performance as Agnes Hathaway (historically known as Anne) in the film adaptation of Maggie O’Farrell’s novel, Hamnet, earning a string of awards for her portrayal of Shakespeare’s wife. This success, however, hasn’t shielded her from past experiences, including scrutiny surrounding her appearance during her early career.
The actor also reflected on her time competing on the BBC talent show I’d Do Anything, which sought to find a performer for the role of Nancy in a West End production of Oliver!. In a previous interview with British Vogue in January, Buckley spoke about being criticized for her appearance during the show. She expressed regret over the experience, stating, “I don’t like that part of it. I think that was a young woman who’s trying to discover her body and herself, like we all do. And I wish that hadn’t happened.”
Buckley acknowledged the pressure to conform to certain standards, but ultimately reaffirmed her individuality. “I think I was putting a brave face on, because really what I wanted to do was sing and I wanted to act, and I wanted to be part of this industry, and all of a sudden you had to be a certain kind of person. And I just wasn’t, I never will be. That’s just not me.” Despite the negativity, she expressed pride in her younger self, stating, “I’m so proud of that girl. I think she did great and I don’t regret any of it.”
Beyond her professional life, Buckley spoke warmly about her mother, Marina, who is currently pursuing her own creative endeavors. “My parents are no longer together, and she lives in Dublin, and she’s writing her own story right now at 60 years of age, and I’m so proud of her,” Buckley shared, her voice reportedly emotional. She highlighted her mother’s strength and resilience as a source of inspiration.
Buckley’s willingness to discuss her personal struggles, coupled with her continued artistic success, positions her as a compelling and relatable figure in the entertainment industry. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health, the transformative power of the arts, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Her openness about her journey, and her continued commitment to therapy, offers a message of hope and resilience to those facing similar challenges.