Halle Berry is redefining menopause, calling for women to embrace it as a milestone rather than a dreaded phase of life. The 58-year-old Oscar winner revealed on The Tamsen Show podcast that she will officially enter menopause on March 21 and believes women should mark the occasion with a festive gathering she calls a “shiesta.”
Berry explained that society celebrates many life transitions, from birthdays to weddings, but menopause is often overlooked or stigmatized. She said women should take charge of the narrative and recognize menopause as a powerful new chapter in their lives.
“It is their duty to give that woman a ‘shiesta’ to celebrate her, like we do every other milestone in our life,” she said.
Her remarks have ignited a larger conversation about shifting cultural attitudes toward menopause and women’s health.
A Fresh Perspective on Aging and Wellness
Berry, who has been an advocate for health and wellness, also shared her initial disbelief about experiencing menopause. Having managed Type 2 diabetes successfully and leading a disciplined lifestyle, she assumed she might bypass the transition altogether.
“There was a feeling of, ‘Hey, I can do pretty much anything I want to do if I eat right and exercise, and prioritize my health and well-being,’” she said. “I thought whatever menopause is—I don’t know much about it—but I’m sure I’m going to skip it because I’m too healthy.”
Despite her initial thoughts, Berry acknowledged the importance of embracing the process rather than fearing it. Her comments resonate with a growing number of women who are pushing back against outdated perceptions of aging.
Joining Forces with Tamsen Fadal
Berry’s conversation with journalist-turned-menopause advocate Tamsen Fadal marks the launch of The Tamsen Show, a new podcast aimed at educating and empowering women about menopause. Fadal, who left her TV news career to focus on advocacy, has also produced a documentary and written a book on the subject, How to Menopause, set for release on March 25.
Berry praised the book, calling it “the menopause Bible” and encouraging women to educate themselves about this stage of life. She emphasized that understanding menopause can help women feel seen and supported rather than isolated.
“You will no longer feel alone by being 100% seen. It’s also full of ways to begin managing this new glorious phase of life,” she wrote in an Instagram post.
As more high-profile women, including Berry and Fadal, continue to speak openly about menopause, the conversation is shifting from one of secrecy and stigma to one of empowerment and celebration.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
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