'The Thorn Birds' actress, Rachel Ward, left Hollywood in 1983 after getting married and allegedly receiving negative reviews for a project.
The majority of Hollywood is obsessed with conversations around youth, filters, and flawless faces. Everywhere, from red carpets to social media feeds, celebrities are constantly ranked based on how well they continue to maintain their looks. But the actress, Rachel Ward, who starred in The Thorn Birds, holds a different view. Recently, the 68-year-old came under the spotlight after one of her unexpected viral moments prompted fans to compare her present-day looks with her glamorous 1980s screen persona. Now, Rachel has finally reacted to it.
Rachel Ward now lives far from Hollywood. She now runs a regenerative beef cattle farm in New South Wales with her husband, actor Bryan Brown. The actress had recently shared a promotional video for their farm, which quickly went viral during the holiday season. Although many fans praised her natural beauty, others made unkind comments questioning why she did not do much to maintain her youthful appearance.
According to People, Rachel was surprised by the online reaction, and she discussed it. She shared another video on January 15, 2026, to express her gratitude to those who gently shut down critics. The former actress encouraged everyone to accept aging and to let go of unrealistic beauty standards. The 68-year-old revealed that, even though she is no longer youthful, it has not taken away her happiness. In her words:
"Do not fear aging. It's a wonderful period of life. I am more fulfilled than ever, and I have no regrets leaving my youth and beauty behind. Later years are to be exalted and welcomed. They have so many other gifts to bestow. "
Rachel Ward's life today is a complete contrast to her days as one of the most recognisable faces of the 1980s. She and her husband, Bryan, run their farm together, and they are passionate advocates of regenerative farming. Back in 2023, she even released a documentary titled Rachel's Farm, chronicling her journey from actress to environmental farmer. Despite stepping back from Hollywood flame, Rachel remains active on social and environmental causes while sharing her heart on the issues.
Rachel Ward was born on September 12, 1957, in England and rose to global fame after playing 'Meggie Cleary' in the legendary 1983 miniseries, The Thorn Birds. Her role earned her a Golden Globe nomination and turned her into a global heartthrob. She went on to work in more films, including Against All Odds, Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid, and Sharky's Machine. In the late 1980s, the actress shifted her focus to directing and screenwriting, helming acclaimed projects such as Beautiful Kate and Palm Beach.
On the other hand, in her personal life, Rachel is married to an Australian actor. Bryan Brown for over four decades. The couple met while filming The Thorn Birds in 1983, where Bryan played her on-screen husband, 'Luke O'Neil ’. Their on-screen chemistry soon turned into real-life romance, and they married the same year. They welcomed three children, Rosie, Matilda, and Joe, and have built a quiet, grounded life together in Australia.
What do you think about Rachel Wards' views on aging?
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