Christina Applegate Reflects on Body Image Struggles During "Married... with Children"

Christina Applegate's upcoming memoir, "You With the Sad Eyes," set to publish on March 3, includes an exclusive excerpt detailing her struggles with body image while portraying Kelly Bundy on the Fox sitcom "Married... with Children." Initially hesitant to join the show, Applegate described her first impression of the script as "trash." However, after watching the pilot, she and her mother found themselves laughing, leading her to accept the role.

Variety Magazine

Applegate, who had already been grappling with body dysmorphia and anorexia prior to her casting, noted that playing Kelly Bundy exacerbated her eating disorder. The character, known for her promiscuous and rebellious nature, required Applegate to maintain a specific body image that contributed to her unhealthy habits. She recounted, “I dug myself into a hole with that character, though, because I had to be skinny,” emphasizing the pressure to fit into clothes that left little room for any weight gain.

Variety Magazine

Throughout her time on the show, Applegate engaged in extreme measures to maintain her physique, including rigorous workout routines and restrictive eating. She described her daily intake as minimal, often punishing herself by skipping meals entirely. “I was bone, bone, bone,” she reflected, acknowledging the toll this quest for perfection took on her body. As the series progressed, the costumes became tighter and shorter, further intensifying the scrutiny she faced regarding her appearance.

Variety Magazine

Applegate expressed a sense of discomfort when reflecting on the show's portrayal of women, stating, “The show was indeed broad, and lewd, and it wouldn’t have a shot in hell of being made these days.” She recognized the challenges young women face in a society focused on appearances and acknowledged her innocence regarding the impact of her character on viewers. Despite the objectification inherent in her role, Applegate stated, “I wanted to wear those Kelly Bundy dresses,” indicating a complex relationship with her character and the pressures of fame.

Variety Magazine

In her memoir, Applegate does not assign blame to the show's cast and crew for her struggles, instead framing her experiences as trauma-based. She noted, “I was just a kid,” highlighting her lack of awareness about the implications of her role on her health and self-image.

Variety Magazine

• “I dug myself into a hole with that character, though, because I had to be skinny,” — Christina Applegate

Variety Magazine

• “The show was indeed broad, and lewd, and it wouldn’t have a shot in hell of being made these days.” — Christina Applegate

Variety Magazine

Christina Applegate's memoir offers a poignant look at the intersection of fame, body image, and personal struggle, providing insight into the lasting effects of her role on "Married... with Children."

Variety Magazine