Donna Mills Defends Personal Style Against Critic

Donna Mills, famed for her role in “Knot’s Landing,” recently gained attention with a bold response to a critique of her appearance. At 85, Mills addressed an Instagram user who commented on her makeup.

In a video that quickly went viral, Mills initially appeared fully made-up, then transformed into a stereotypical elderly look with gray hair and wire-rimmed glasses. Laughing, she asked, “Did you want me to look like this?” before returning to her glamorous style, affirming, “I like the way I look. This is my style, and style doesn’t have an expiration date.” The video resonated, amassing over 125,000 likes, with endorsements from celebrities such as Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, and Nancy Sinatra.

Mills discussed her video on the Tamron Hall Show, noting the 1.8 million views it received. She emphasized the broader issue, questioning societal views on women’s appearances. Mills explained her response targeted not just personal criticism but a wider commentary on women’s self-perception.

Mills said, “It’s not just about me. It’s about women in general and the way women feel about themselves.”

Her message of confidence in aging struck a chord. She expressed gratitude, saying, “I was just grateful that people were hearing because I have something to say to women.” On societal pressures, Mills said people are conditioned to judge women’s appearances, but emphasized a shift as people live longer and healthier lives.

“We don’t hit 70 or 75 or 80 and it’s over,” she stated. “It’s a new time.”

Mills, known for enduring self-confidence, acknowledged moments of doubt. On maintaining confidence in an unforgiving industry, she admitted to seeing flaws in herself. Her solution was simple: “Well, I fix it,” she added, prompting laughter.

Reflecting on her newfound internet fame, Mills wrote on Instagram, “If you told me at 85 I’d be going viral on social media, I wouldn’t have believed you…but here we are.” She expressed satisfaction in her impact, stating her belief in delivering messages with a “wink, not a jab.”

Donna Mills gained fame on “Knots Landing,” portraying Abby Cunningham, known for her makeup and style. She will appear in “Abused,” an upcoming thriller addressing trauma and abuse, set for release this summer.