Christina Applegate Opens Up About First Signs of MS While Filming ‘Dead to Me’
In a powerful and emotional interview, Christina Applegate recently shared the struggles she faced during the filming of the popular Netflix series Dead to Me—including the first signs of multiple sclerosis (MS) that she experienced while working on the show. The revelation gives fans a new perspective on the challenges Applegate has faced while continuing to deliver her iconic performance.
The Early Signs of MS
In 2021, Christina Applegate was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, a chronic illness that affects the central nervous system and can cause a range of symptoms, from fatigue to difficulty walking. For many, an MS diagnosis is a life-altering event, and it’s one that Applegate did not see coming.
During the final season of Dead to Me, Applegate began noticing troubling symptoms that would eventually lead to her diagnosis. Initially, she attributed some of the fatigue and physical difficulties to the demanding nature of filming, especially given the intense emotional material she was tackling as Jen Harding, her character in the show. However, as the symptoms worsened, Applegate realized that something much more serious was happening.
One of the most challenging aspects of filming with undiagnosed MS was the physical toll it took on Applegate. She spoke candidly about her struggles with walking, which became more and more difficult as her symptoms progressed. Applegate’s dedication to her craft and her desire to finish the series were incredibly admirable. Despite her health challenges, she powered through the physical pain and exhaustion, determined to complete her work on Dead to Me with grace and professionalism.
Continuing to Work Through Adversity
In her emotional interviews, Applegate emphasized how much the support of her Dead to Me cast and crew meant during this difficult time. The team worked hard to accommodate her needs, ensuring she was comfortable and well-cared for while filming. She expressed gratitude for the understanding and kindness of her co-stars, particularly Linda Cardellini, with whom she shared an enduring friendship throughout the series.
Applegate also praised the production team for their efforts to make adjustments to filming schedules, allowing her to take breaks when necessary, all while keeping the momentum of the show going. This camaraderie and flexibility on set allowed Applegate to continue her work with minimal interruption, despite the challenges posed by her diagnosis.
Raising Awareness About MS
Since her diagnosis, Christina Applegate has used her platform to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis. She has been open and honest about the difficulties she has faced with MS and how it has impacted her life and career. By sharing her story, Applegate hopes to inspire others who may be going through similar health struggles, and to shed light on a condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
Christina Applegate’s courage and determination in the face of adversity are truly inspiring. Her ability to push forward with such professionalism while managing a serious health condition is a testament to her strength and resilience. Fans of Dead to Me will no doubt continue to be in awe of her remarkable talent and perseverance.
