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Donna Mills Responds to Makeup Criticism with Confidence and Humor

4/7/2026, 5:58:38 AM

Response to Criticism: A Bold Statement on Aging

Donna Mills, the 85-year-old actress known for her role as Abby Cunningham in the soap opera "Knots Landing," recently addressed criticism regarding her makeup choices. On April 5, 2024, Mills posted a video on Instagram in response to a comment that stated, "You wear too much makeup for your age." In the video, she confidently showcased her glamorous look, wearing a black leather jacket, a lace tank top, and styled hair. Mills humorously remarked, "Oh, this comment? I guess I didn’t get the memo," before transitioning to a stereotypical "grandmother" appearance, complete with gray hair and a ruffled blouse. She concluded with the assertion, "Sorry, not sorry. I like the way I look. This is my style, and style doesn’t have an expiration date."

Support from Fans and Peers

Mills' video quickly garnered widespread support from fans and fellow celebrities. Comments flooded in, praising her confidence and style. Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, and Tracey Bregman were among those who expressed their admiration. Bregman noted, "You look extraordinary! But the best part is you love it and so do we," while Spencer added a series of fire emojis to emphasize her approval. The positive reception highlighted a broader cultural conversation about aging and beauty standards.

Background: Mills' Career and Makeup Philosophy

Mills rose to fame in the 1980s as a glamorous character in "Knots Landing," where she was known for her striking makeup and fashion sense. Throughout her career, she has emphasized the importance of personal style and has often done her own makeup, a skill she developed from working with professional makeup artists. In a previous interview, Mills shared her preference for applying makeup herself, stating, "It takes me less time to do it than it takes somebody else." This hands-on approach led her to create a successful makeup tutorial video, "The Eyes Have It," which was distributed by Universal Pictures and became a hit.

Challenging Age-Related Stereotypes

Mills' response to the criticism has resonated with many, sparking discussions about age-related stereotypes in beauty and fashion. Her statement, "Style doesn’t have an expiration date," has been widely shared online, inspiring others to embrace their personal style regardless of age. Supporters have commented on her confidence, with remarks such as, "This is what true confidence looks like," reflecting a growing movement against ageism in the beauty industry.

Conclusion: A Message of Empowerment

Through her humorous and confident response to criticism, Donna Mills has not only defended her personal style but also sent a powerful message about self-acceptance and the celebration of individuality at any age. As she continues to inspire others, Mills exemplifies the idea that beauty and style are not confined by age, encouraging a more inclusive perspective on aging in the public eye.