Hollywood has long pressured women to maintain a youthful appearance, with constant discussion about cosmetic procedures and anti-aging routines. But some stars choose a different path — including actress, director, and writer Justine Bateman, best known for playing Mallory on Family Ties. Now 57, Bateman has decided to embrace natural aging and refuses to get plastic surgery, despite the pressure placed on women in the industry. In an interview with 60 Minutes Australia, she explained why:
“I think I look rad. My face represents who I am. I like it.” Bateman says her face tells the story of her life, and altering it would erase the authority and growth she has earned. But her decision hasn’t come without criticism. She began receiving harsh comments about her appearance in her 40s, with online trolls comparing her to a “sea hag” or “meth addict.”
The negativity made her briefly question herself, leading to feelings of shame about her natural aging. After some reflection, Bateman realized the real issue wasn’t her face — it was the fear created by unrealistic beauty standards. “You’re not going to make that fear go away by changing your face,” she said. “Getting plastic surgery is just people pleasing.”
Bateman, who wrote Face: One Square Foot of Skin about society’s obsession with youth, says she feels sad for women who feel pressured to “fix” themselves instead of enjoying life. She hopes her message encourages others to embrace their natural beauty. Justine Bateman looks confident and authentic — and she’s inspiring many to rethink what aging beautifully really means.