Jennette McCurdy, known for her role on iCarly, revealed on her podcast Empty Inside in February 2021 that she decided to stop acting a few years ago. She shared that she feels ashamed of the roles she played in the past and is now focusing on writing, directing, and hosting her podcast. In her 2022 memoir, I’m Glad My Mom Died, she opened up about her feelings of resentment towards her acting career, describing it as unfulfilling and embarrassing. Despite her negative experiences with acting, she hasn’t ruled out a potential return to the industry, mentioning that writing the book has given her a new perspective on exploring acting again in the future.
McCurdy explained that her discomfort with her acting career began at a young age, feeling embarrassed by the roles she played on Nickelodeon shows from the ages of 13 to 21. She mentioned that by the age of 15, she was already feeling the embarrassment and how her friends did not see her acting career as something to be proud of. This sense of shame and unfulfillment has been a significant factor in her decision to move away from acting and focus on other creative endeavors. However, she hinted at the possibility of returning to acting in a different capacity, such as writing roles for herself that do not carry the same negative baggage.
In an interview with E! News in October 2022, McCurdy elaborated on her thoughts on potentially exploring acting again. She expressed that writing her memoir has allowed her to see a new perspective on acting, suggesting that writing her own roles may be a way to overcome the baggage she has carried for so long. By taking control of her acting career and creating characters that resonate with her, she believes that she could find a way to enjoy acting again without the feelings of shame and embarrassment that have plagued her in the past. This shift in mindset reflects a potential new chapter in her relationship with acting.
McCurdy’s candid revelations about her past experiences in acting and her decision to step away from the industry shed light on the challenges and pressures faced by child actors in Hollywood. Her honesty about feeling unfulfilled and embarrassed by her roles serves as a reminder of the complexities of fame and the impact it can have on an individual’s self-esteem and sense of identity. While she may have struggled with her acting career in the past, McCurdy’s openness to exploring new opportunities and potentially returning to acting in a more fulfilling capacity showcases her resilience and determination to overcome her past challenges.
Overall, Jennette McCurdy’s journey from child actor to writer, director, and podcaster highlights the importance of self-reflection and finding fulfilling creative outlets. Her decision to move away from acting and focus on writing and directing demonstrates her desire to explore new avenues of expression and personal growth. By sharing her struggles with her acting career and her hopes for the future, McCurdy offers a nuanced perspective on the complexities of fame and the pursuit of authenticity in the entertainment industry. Her openness and vulnerability in discussing her past experiences and future aspirations serve as an inspiration to others navigating similar challenges in their own creative pursuits.
