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Jane Fonda Says She Expected to Die by 30, Shares Late-Life Outlook on Michelle Obama’s Podcast

Her remarks on The Look trace a path from early trauma to a late-life focus on intentional, regret‑free living.

Overview

  • During the Nov. 19 episode of The Look hosted by Michelle Obama, Fonda said an unhappy youth and her mother's death at 12 fueled a belief she would die young from "drugs and loneliness."
  • Now 87 and turning 88 on Dec. 21, she said she is "astonished" to have lived this long and feels more centered, whole, and content being single.
  • She said she does not fear aging or death, but fears dying with regrets after watching her father, Henry Fonda, face the end of his life with unfinished business.
  • Turning 60 marked a pivot she calls the start of her "final act," which led her to prioritize forgiveness, close relationships, and living deliberately.
  • She linked a regret‑free life to steady self‑care and ongoing work, noting she still follows a consistent workout routine and was honored with the 2025 SAG Lifetime Achievement Award.