Linda Hamilton, the acclaimed actress known for her iconic role in the Terminator franchise, recently shared that she was contemplating retirement due to health concerns. The 69-year-old star faced challenges with her hip, which led her to consider stepping away from her career. However, an unexpected opportunity arose when the Duffer Brothers reached out to her regarding a role in the fifth and final season of the popular Netflix series Stranger Things.
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Hamilton recounted, “I was thinking very much of retirement around that time because of my hip. I was limping. Unless you want a character that’s limping… I just said, ‘I can’t do my best work or be sure that I’m gonna be fit for work every day. I gotta stop.'” Just three months later, the call from the Duffer Brothers changed her trajectory, leading to renewed excitement about her career.
Physical Challenges and Preparation
Hamilton’s physical challenges required her to work diligently to remain fit for her role. She dedicated herself to a rigorous regimen, attending the gym three times a week to stay “mobile and ready.” She acknowledged the demanding nature of her preparation, stating, “A whole calendar year of trying to stay ahead of the curve in terms of when they might need me and what the demands were going to be physically.” Despite the challenges, she found relief in successfully managing her health and performing without any hindrances during filming.
Reflecting on her stunt work, Hamilton noted, “I’m thinking those might be my last stunt rehearsals — I think I might be done with that.” Her commitment to staying fit has allowed her to continue working, and she now has multiple projects lined up, including the recently released film Osiris and upcoming titles Trust Me, I’m a Doctor and Resident Alien.
Renewed Passion for Acting
Despite her initial thoughts of retirement, Hamilton’s current workload has her busier than ever. She shared her surprise at how much she enjoys acting now, stating, “I’ve hardly ever worked back-to-back. I haven’t worked this much since I started to talk about retirement. Now, I’m working all the time.” Although she manages her career without an assistant or publicist, she has found fulfillment in her work.
Hamilton described the challenges of balancing her career with personal life, particularly as a single mother. “It’s hard being a young actress, single mother, career woman to create the time to do the work, but also to give time to your children.” She emphasized the joy she finds in dedicating time to her craft, noting, “I actually love acting more than I ever have.”
As she navigates her busy schedule, Hamilton remains grateful for the opportunities that have come her way. The actress, who once considered retirement, now relishes the chance to explore new roles and connect with her passion for acting. With her talents and dedication, she continues to inspire both fans and colleagues alike.
