After being honored with an inclusion in People's "Sexiest Man Alive" issue, Bradley Whitford, 62, revealed he recognizes that he benefits from double-standards when it comes to aging in our society.
“We get celebrated for aging,” the former “West Wing” star admitted in a chat with People. “It's unfair and it's crazy. I remember my mom, who had absolutely nothing to do with show business, would talk about how unfair that is, that men become distinguished, and women become invisible. I have siblings and my sisters talk about that a lot. It's unfair. I have been celebrated for aging, which is bizarre."
The actor takes a sense of humor along with his astute observations. Asked about how he feels being in the “Sexiest Man Alive” list, Whitford groans, “I’m just aching for my children, because it’s gotta be uncomfortable. If my father was in this shoe like this it would’ve been extremely painful.”
Seeing as the People interview clip is titled “Redefining the Dad Bod,” one can see where the embarrassment might come in for the kids.
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"The Handmaid's Tale" actor also explained how he stays in shape, noting that he goes for regular walks around his L.A. neighborhood with his wife Amy Landecker. “I started walking a lot [during the pandemic], which I love to do. It's sort of an anti-anxiety, anti-depressant," he revealed.
However, his doctors told him to watch his knees: “I’m doing a play right now, so I’ve been going to a gym and sort of pathetically lifting weights... And just getting up and down counts as a squat.”
All aging jokes aside, Whitford says he's "never been happier in my life.”
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His secrets for aging gracefully? He credits parents who were “weirdly happy about the aging process,” adding that if you’re “lucky to be with someone who loves you and who you love,” that helps.
The Emmy winner has recently executive produced a documentary, “Not Going Quietly,” and is currently starring in a touring production of “A Christmas Carol.”
“Not Going Quietly,” about the inspiring life of activist Ady Barkan, is now available on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, iTunes, and more.
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