S Poddar
Eva Longoria is never one to shy away from speaking on issues affecting society, and Hollywood’s outdated attitude toward aging is no exception. In a candid interview with Marie Claire, the actress and director shares her refreshing perspective on aging, wellness, and embracing life at every stage.
“I’m cold-plunging; I’ve got red lights on; I strength train with weights; I meditate; I’m journaling,” Longoria detailed when asked about her wellness routine. “I wake up with the sun; I’m doing the grounding; I have an Oura ring to track deep sleep; I’m taking magnesium and other supplements; I’m doing everything.” But she clarified, “Not because I don’t want to age but because I do want to age.”
At 49, Longoria draws her inspiration from their trailblazers such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Lopez who continue to excel in their craft long past the age of 50. Still, she’s not particularly concerned with how the industry feels about women ageing within its own walls. With an array of busy projects in film and television, thriving businesses, and steady appearances on red carpets, she has no intention of retiring anytime soon.
“For me, age is just a number, but I’m excited,” she said. “I refuse to believe my greatest success is behind me.”
Longoria’s confidence remains unwavering, even when reflecting on roles that required her to bare it all on screen. She noted that she would embrace similar opportunities at this stage in her life, adding, “I’m like, ‘I would totally do that photo shoot at 50.’”
While her career is booming, her personal life has taken her far from Hollywood’s epicenter. Longoria splits her time between Spain and Mexico with her husband, José Bastón, and their six-year-old son, Santiago. This shift has given her a new perspective on life and a sense of closure with her former home in Los Angeles.
“I had my whole adult life here,” she said of Los Angeles. “But even before [the pandemic], it was changing. The vibe was different. And then Covid happened, and it pushed it over the edge. Whether it’s the homelessness or the taxes—not that I want to shit on California—it just feels like this chapter in my life is done now.”
While she acknowledges the privilege of being able to relocate, Longoria expresses deep concern for those who don’t have the same options. “I’m privileged,” she said. “I get to escape and go somewhere. Most Americans aren’t so lucky. They’re going to be stuck in this dystopian country, and my anxiety and sadness is for them.”
Longoria’s attitude toward aging in an industry in which there is a horror of getting old and experience is nothing short of refreshing. She has shown us an empowering example of holding onto her values and embracing every chapter of life.
