In a heartfelt conversation on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, legendary actress Jamie Lee Curtis delivered a poignant reflection on her evolving identity as an artist. Known for her iconic roles as the scream queen and a Hollywood mainstay, Curtis revealed a newfound sense of creative liberation that has redefined her 40-year career. At 66, after earning an Oscar and an Emmy, she’s stepping into what she calls a “creative meadow,” where vulnerability, sobriety, and self-expression reign supreme. Here’s an in-depth look at Curtis’ journey from surviving the industry to thriving as an artist, her transformative relationship with sobriety, and the childhood memory that still fuels her passion.

A Career Reimagined: From Actor to Artist

Jamie Lee Curtis has long been a household name, celebrated for her roles in films like Halloween, True Lies, and Everything Everywhere All at Once. For decades, she was the quintessential actor—a professional who delivered powerful performances while navigating the demands of Hollywood’s studio system. But in a recent interview, Curtis shared that she’s finally embracing a new title: artist. “I’m having a moment,” she told Colbert, her voice thick with emotion. “I’m having… freedom.”

This shift marks a profound turning point for Curtis. No longer driven by the need to prove herself, she’s now focused on creating work that resonates deeply with her soul. “I’m standing in this creative meadow,” she explained, painting a vivid picture of a space filled with “color, light, shape—all of it is mine to touch.” For Curtis, this meadow represents a departure from the pressures of fame and a step toward authentic self-expression. Every role, every project, and even every quiet moment now feels like an opportunity to create art.

Her recent accolades—an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 2023 and an Emmy for her work in The Bear—have solidified her status as a powerhouse. Yet, Curtis insists that her newfound freedom isn’t just about trophies. It’s about shedding the constraints of her past and embracing a creative process that feels wholly her own. “I’m not working to be seen anymore,” she said. “I’m working to express.”

Sobriety: The Key to Clarity

Central to Curtis’ transformation is her journey of sobriety, which she credits with unlocking this new chapter of her life. After years of battling addiction, she’s found clarity and purpose in recovery. “Addiction told me who I wasn’t,” she reflected. “Sobriety reminded me who I could be.” This profound shift has given her a “second version” of her life—one marked by sharper vision, a gentler rhythm, and a renewed sense of control.

Sobriety hasn’t just changed how Curtis lives; it’s reshaped how she creates. She describes her sober self as more present, more intentional, and more open to the nuances of her craft. “It’s like I’m seeing the world in high definition,” she told Colbert. This clarity has allowed her to approach roles with a depth and vulnerability that she hadn’t accessed before. Whether she’s playing a quirky IRS agent or a grieving mother, Curtis now brings an unguarded authenticity to her performances that resonates with audiences and critics alike.

Her sobriety also informs her perspective on aging. At 66, Curtis is embracing the wisdom that comes with experience. “Aging and sobriety go hand in hand,” she said. “They’ve given me the space to breathe, to think, to create without fear.” This combination has empowered her to take risks in her career, from tackling unconventional roles to producing projects that align with her values.

A Childhood Memory That Shaped Her

In a particularly moving moment, Curtis shared a memory from her childhood that continues to inspire her. At eight years old, she stood on a school stage, reciting the Gettysburg Address for a packed auditorium. Despite her young age, she delivered every word with confidence and precision. “I didn’t stumble. I didn’t flinch,” she recalled. “That was the first time I felt the power of being heard. It wasn’t fame—it was presence.”

That early experience planted a seed that would grow throughout her career. The sense of connection she felt with her audience at eight years old mirrors the resonance she now seeks in her work. “I’m still that little girl on stage,” she said, smiling. “I just want to be heard, to share something true.” This memory underscores Curtis’ belief that art is about presence, not perfection—a principle that guides her today.

Redefining Success: Art Without Permission

For much of her career, Curtis operated within the confines of Hollywood’s expectations. As a scream queen in the Halloween franchise, she became a cultural icon, but the label often overshadowed her versatility. As a studio pro, she delivered consistent performances in films like A Fish Called Wanda and Knives Out. Yet, despite her success, she felt tethered to external validation. Now, Curtis is rewriting that narrative.

“I don’t need to be the best,” she said, her eyes sparkling with conviction. “I just need to be… true.” This mantra reflects her current approach to her craft. She’s no longer chasing roles to prove her worth; instead, she’s selecting projects that allow her to explore her creativity and connect with audiences on a deeper level. Her upcoming film, Freakier Friday, set to hit theaters on August 8, 2025, is a testament to this shift. A sequel to the beloved Freaky Friday, the project blends nostalgia with fresh storytelling, offering Curtis a chance to flex her comedic and emotional range.

Curtis also views scripts differently now. “They’re invitations,” she said, emphasizing that each role is an opportunity to explore new facets of herself. This perspective has transformed her work, making every project a personal journey. Vulnerability, once a liability in the cutthroat world of Hollywood, has become her greatest asset. “Vulnerability is my currency now,” she told Colbert. “It’s what makes the work real.”

A Legacy of Resonance

Curtis’ evolution as an artist is a testament to her resilience and growth. After decades in the industry, she’s no longer defined by her past roles or the labels pinned to her. Instead, she’s carving out a legacy rooted in authenticity and impact. “I’m chasing resonance,” she said, explaining that her goal is to create work that lingers with audiences long after the credits roll.

Her recent projects reflect this commitment. In Everything Everywhere All at Once, her portrayal of Deirdre Beaubeirdre earned her critical acclaim and an Oscar, proving her ability to balance humor and heart. Her role in The Bear showcased her dramatic depth, earning her an Emmy and further cementing her versatility. These achievements, while significant, are secondary to the personal fulfillment she’s found in her craft.

Curtis’ partnership with younger creatives also highlights her forward-thinking approach. She’s passionate about mentoring the next generation, sharing her insights while learning from their fresh perspectives. “The meadow is big enough for all of us,” she said, referencing her metaphorical creative space. This collaborative spirit has made her a beloved figure in the industry, admired not just for her talent but for her generosity.

The Road Ahead: A Life of Alignment

As Curtis looks to the future, she’s focused on alignment—ensuring that her work, her values, and her personal life are in harmony. “The real reward is not applause,” she said. “It’s alignment.” This philosophy guides her choices, from the roles she takes to the stories she tells. Whether she’s producing, acting, or advocating for causes like addiction recovery, Curtis is committed to living authentically.

Her appearance on The Late Show was a powerful reminder of her journey. Choking up as she spoke about her newfound freedom, Curtis showed a side of herself that fans rarely see—a woman who’s fought hard for her place in the world and is now savoring the fruits of that labor. “I’m not done yet,” she said with a grin. “I’m just getting started.”

Conclusion: A Star Reborn

Jamie Lee Curtis’ story is one of transformation, resilience, and rediscovery. From her early days as a scream queen to her current role as an artist in full bloom, she’s navigated the highs and lows of Hollywood with grace and determination. Sobriety has given her clarity, aging has brought wisdom, and success has opened doors to creative freedom. As she steps into her “creative meadow,” Curtis is redefining what it means to be an artist—chasing resonance, embracing vulnerability, and living true to herself. With Freakier Friday on the horizon and a renewed passion for her craft, Curtis is proving that her best work is yet to come.