Actress Rachel Ward, famed for her role in the 1983 television phenomenon 'The Thorn Birds', has delivered a poignant retort to online critics who targeted her appearance in a recent social media video.
A Viral Farm Update Sparks Unkind Comments
Ward, who is now 68 years old, shared a candid video from her Australian farm during the holiday season. In the clip, she thanked followers for their kind messages while discussing her neighbours and daily farm work. The actress, who starred opposite the late Richard Chamberlain as Meggie Cleary, appeared naturally with grey hair and no makeup.
While many appreciated her authenticity, the video—which amassed over 860,000 views—also attracted negative remarks from some who labelled her look "unkempt" and claimed she was unrecognisable.
Ward's Powerful Response to the Criticism
Addressing the controversy directly in a follow-up video posted on Friday, Ward stated she was "overwhelmed by the generosity" shown by supporters after "a few fearful trolls" attacked her pre-Christmas appearance. With characteristic dry wit, she noted in the caption, "I’m a farmer now but really should do my hair and apply some lippy before I go on social media. Apologies for frightening a few of you."
She used the platform not to apologise, but to share a profound message on ageing. "Do not fear aging," Ward urged viewers. "It’s a wonderful period of life... I'm not youthful, but I am a very happy camper. Later years are to be exalted and welcomed."
She emphasised her fulfilment, stating she has "no regrets leaving my youth and beauty behind" and that later life brings unexpected gifts. She concluded with advice: "We're all a little bit worried about losing our youth and resorting to rather drastic ways of holding on to it, but let it go."
An Outpouring of Support and a Focus on Farming
The backlash against the initial critics was swift and significant. Fans flooded the comments to praise Ward's natural beauty, with one writing, "In a world full of Kardashians, be a Rachel Ward." Another declared her "a national treasure."
Following her response video, supporters applauded her grace, with comments like, "Aging is an honor and a privilege... you are doing it with such grace," and "Your beauty shines from within."
Ward, who lives on the farm with her husband, actor Bryan Brown, also revealed she only engaged with the criticism to promote a new farm initiative, a novel scheme for purchasing food and groceries, quipping she would otherwise "crawl under a rock."
