Academy Award-winning actress and producer Viola Davis says she feels “younger, happier, and more grateful than ever” as she steps into her 60s.
The How to Get Away with Murder star shared her thoughts during an appearance at The Television Academy Hall of Fame in Los Angeles, weeks after her milestone birthday on August 11.
“I feel fabulous. I’m alive. I’m breathing. I’m about to have a cocktail and some food. I feel happier than I’ve ever been,” Davis said in a conversation reported by People.
“I Found Home, I Found My Ruby Slippers”
Reflecting on her personal growth, Davis revealed that her happiness comes from doing the emotional work of self-discovery.
“I’ve been curious enough about myself to do the work, and now that I’m at 60, I can honestly say I found home. I found my ruby slippers. That, for me, has been extremely freeing,” she explained.
Davis added that without this inner work, she might have felt older. Instead, she feels youthful, empowered, and grateful.
Advice to Her Daughter: “Be the Love of Your Life”
Davis, who is also a mother to 15-year-old Genesis, emphasized the importance of self-love. At the 76th Cannes Film Festival in 2023, she shared the life lesson she has passed on to her daughter:
“I told my daughter this morning that she has to have a love affair with herself. She is the love of her life. At the end of the day, you can’t disappoint yourself. You have to show up for her.”
Davis explained that self-love isn’t just about pampering with spa treatments or wine—it’s about creating boundaries, standing up for yourself, and showing resilience in the face of hurt.
“No one ever taught me that,” she said. “I used to think loving myself was conceited, but no, that’s absolutely right.”
