Jennifer Aniston is speaking out about her long and private journey with fertility. In a new interview with Harper’s Bazaar, the 56-year-old actress shared why she wrote her powerful 2016 op-ed for The Huffington Post, where she pushed back against media pressure and rumors about her having children.
“For 20 years, I was trying to start a family,” Aniston said. “But the media didn’t know my story. I don’t go out there and tell them my medical issues — that’s nobody’s business.” She explained that constant headlines speculating about her being pregnant or choosing not to have kids were hurtful. “There comes a point when you can’t ignore it — the idea that I’m selfish or a workaholic because I don’t have children. It does affect me. I’m just a human being.”
Aniston said she decided to speak up not just for herself, but for other women going through similar struggles. “It felt like it was bigger than me. I know so many women dealing with IVF and fertility issues. I wanted them to feel seen.”
Back in 2016, she told PEOPLE that questions about children often came up during interviews or red carpet events. “It’s not something that’s part of our everyday life,” she said. “And it’s not fair. There are many reasons why someone may or may not have kids — and maybe it’s something they don’t want to talk about.”
Aniston’s close friend Jason Bateman also praised her deep connection with his daughters, Francesca and Maple. In a recent Vanity Fair interview, Bateman said Aniston is more like a “co-mom” than just an aunt. “She’s incredibly attentive and warm. She’s the first to call or text about important dates in their lives.”
He added, “She’s been part of their lives since birth. It’s strange for them to even understand the public version of Jennifer Aniston.”
Through her honesty and compassion, Aniston continues to inspire others — showing that behind the fame is a woman who has faced real challenges and chosen to speak up for herself and others.