Jessie Buckley Opens Up About Eating Disorder & Depression Battle
Jessie Buckley, the critically acclaimed actress currently riding a wave of awards recognition, has opened up about a deeply personal struggle with an eating disorder and depression during her teenage years. The 36-year-vintage Irish star shared her experiences on BBC Radio 4’s , edition of Desert Island Discs, crediting her passion for music and theatre as crucial elements in her recovery.
Buckley, known for her roles in films like Hamnet and her recent Oscar nomination, spoke candidly with presenter Lauren Laverne about a period of intense difficulty. While she did not specify the type of eating disorder she battled, she described a time when she “didn’t know how to be alive the way I wanted to be.” She emphasized, however, that she harbors no regrets about the challenges she faced, viewing them as transformative experiences that have deepened her understanding of human vulnerability.
“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 explained. “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.”
The actress’s journey to finding solace and strength through the arts began early. She recounted how acting felt “essential” to her wellbeing, describing it as “like water to me.” This realization solidified during a particularly frightening incident early in her career, when her appendix nearly burst while performing, yet she refused to exit the stage until the play concluded. The incident underscored the profound connection she felt to her craft and its vital role in her life.
Buckley’s path wasn’t always straightforward. She recalled a period of uncertainty after moving to London, where she feared losing her connection to music and theatre if she didn’t find a way to overcome her struggles. “There were moments where I was like, ‘if I don’t receive better here, this music, this being part of theatre – I’m not going to be able to do this any more, and I probably won’t survive’,” she admitted. It was this realization – the potential loss of the very things that sustained her – that spurred her to prioritize her wellbeing and continue pursuing her artistic passions.
The conversation similarly touched upon Buckley’s experience on the BBC talent show I’d Do Anything, a search for an actress to play Nancy in a West End production of Oliver!. While the show launched her career, she expressed discomfort with the scrutiny she faced regarding her appearance. She acknowledged the pressure to conform to certain standards and expressed gratitude for having remained true to herself.
“I don’t like that part of it,” Buckley said, reflecting on the criticism she received. “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. 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.” She added with conviction, “I’m so proud of that girl. I think she did great and I don’t regret any of it.”
Buckley’s recent success, including awards for her performance as Agnes Hathaway in Hamnet, underscores her remarkable talent and resilience. She has already collected a Golden Globe and a Bafta for the role, and remains in contention for the Academy Award for Best Actress. The film, based on Maggie O’Farrell’s novel, has been a critical darling, further solidifying Buckley’s position as one of the most compelling actresses of her generation.
Beyond her professional achievements, Buckley also spoke warmly about her mother, describing her as “extraordinary” and praising her for embarking on a new chapter in her life at the age of 60. She revealed that she has been in therapy since the age of 17 and continues to attend sessions weekly, highlighting the importance of ongoing mental health support.
The Desert Island Discs episode offered a rare glimpse into the personal life of an actress who often embodies complex and emotionally demanding characters on screen. Buckley’s willingness to share her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of vulnerability, self-acceptance, and the healing power of art. The full episode is available on BBC Sounds and BBC Radio 4.