In her candid new memoir, "Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed To Get Old," actress Brooke Shields reveals the profound impact her mother Teri Shields' alcoholism had on her life. Teri, who also served as Brooke's manager from a young age, passed away in 2012 after battling dementia.
Shields describes a constant feeling of unease and apprehension growing up, always anticipating trouble or disapproval. She attributes this to the unpredictable nature of living with an alcoholic parent. While she found stability and structure on film sets, her home life was often chaotic, with shifting plans and moods.
This stark contrast between the predictable world of work and the turbulent environment at home significantly shaped Shields' perspective. She sought refuge in the established rules and schedules of film sets, finding a sense of freedom within their boundaries.
Shields also reflects on how her mother's self-proclaimed non-judgmental stance didn't align with her daughter's lived experience. She frequently felt scrutinized and worried about impending criticism. This, Shields acknowledges, is a common experience for children of alcoholics.
Determined to break the cycle, Shields prioritized creating a stable and supportive environment for her own children with husband Chris Henchy. She emphasized open communication, encouraging her daughters to express their opinions without fear of judgment. While consequences for actions existed, discussions about the reasons behind those actions were central to their parenting approach.
Despite the difficulties, Shields acknowledges the complexity of her relationship with her mother. While fear and guilt were present, a powerful love and connection remained. This complicated dynamic is further explored in the 2023 documentary "Pretty Baby," which examines Shields' career and the controversies surrounding her early work as a child model and actress.
