Sally Field, the accomplished actress who has claimed prestigious awards such as the Academy, Emmy, and Golden Globe, has captivated audiences with her unforgettable performances in films like “Forrest Gump,” “Brothers and Sisters,” “Lincoln,” and “Steel Magnolias.” At 76 years young, this remarkable actress began her dazzling career back in 1965 when she took on the lead role in “Gidget.” Since then, she has graced the screens of both TV and cinema, as well as the stages of Broadway, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Field has also courageously shared her personal struggles, including the heart-wrenching experiences of childhood abuse, battles with depression, self-doubt, and the poignancy of solitude, which she unflinchingly detailed in her captivating 2018 memoir, “In Pieces.”
On November 6, 1946, Sally Field was born in the vibrant city of Pasadena, California. Her mother, Margaret Field (née Morlan), was an actress, and her father, Richard Dryden Field, worked as a salesman. Following her parents’ divorce, Sally’s mother found love again with actor and stuntman Jock Mahoney. Sally Field also has a cherished brother, Richard Field, and a half-sister, Princess O’Mahoney, both of whom are still part of her loving life.
Her Personal Journey
Sally Field embarked on her lifelong journey of love when she married Steven Craig in 1968. Together, they welcomed two wonderful sons into the world, Peter and Eli. Unfortunately, their marriage ended in divorce in 1975. In 1984, she found love again, this time with Alan Greisman, and they had a son named Samuel. However, their union also came to an end in 1994. It was during this time that Sally Field courageously faced the challenges of a complicated relationship with the charismatic actor Burt Reynolds, a story she openly shares in her memoir.
In her book, Field recounts the painful memories of Reynolds’ controlling behavior and the deep regret of missing the Emmy ceremony, wherein she emerged victorious in the category of “Sybil.” Tragically, Reynolds passed away shortly before the release of her memoir. In his own memoir, he candidly admitted, “the biggest regret of my life.” Remarkably, Field and Reynolds had not spoken for three decades prior to his passing. One of Hollywood’s most revered leading ladies, she explained, “He was just not good for me in any way.”
A Legacy that Shines Brightly Today
Today, Sally Field cherishes her well-deserved Oscars and Emmys, displayed in a TV room where she joyfully indulges in video games with her adored grandchildren. With her unyielding spirit, this acting legend shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, her upcoming film “Spoiler Alert” is set to be released next week, and audiences eagerly anticipate the arrival of “80 for Brady” in 2023.
As her friend and acclaimed director Steven Spielberg aptly stated, “As an actor, she defied expectations, breaking through every barrier to forge her own path. And it’s not about chasing stardom, which I believe she would dismiss, but rather about embracing extraordinary roles in remarkable films and television shows.” Through her unwavering determination and impeccable taste, Sally Field has not only endured the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry but has also left an indelible mark that will truly stand the test of time.
