Jamie Lee Curtis, an American actress, author, and activist, has carved a unique and enduring place in both the film industry and the hearts of audiences worldwide. Born on November 22, 1958, in Santa Monica, California, she hails from a family of Hollywood royalty. Her parents, Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh, were both celebrated actors, but Jamie Lee Curtis has forged her own path, becoming an icon in her own right.

Curtis’ breakthrough role came in 1978 with the horror classic “Halloween,” where she played Laurie Strode. Her performance in this film not only set a new standard for horror film heroines but also earned her the title of “scream queen.” However, her talent and versatility quickly transcended this genre. Over the years, Curtis has demonstrated a remarkable range, excelling in various genres including comedy, drama, and action. Her performances in films like “Trading Places” (1983), “A Fish Called Wanda” (1988), and “True Lies” (1994) received critical acclaim and showcased her ability to tackle diverse roles with ease.

As an activist, Curtis is known for her candidness and advocacy on various issues. She has been open about her struggles with addiction and recovery, using her experience to help others facing similar challenges. Her work in this field and her advocacy for children’s hospitals and human rights causes further highlight her commitment to making a positive impact off-screen.

Jamie Lee Curtis, the beloved actress known for her incredible talent, opens up about the challenges that have shaped her journey. In a candid interview, she reveals the personal struggles that have touched her life.

A Complex Family Legacy

Growing up, Curtis was deeply influenced by her father, Tony Curtis, a Hollywood legend with a troubled past. Reflecting on her father’s legacy, she acknowledges, “My father leaves me with a legacy of having been in a lot of pain in his life.” This glimpse into her family’s complexities sheds light on the hardships she has faced.

A Profound Loss

At the age of 19, Curtis experienced a devastating loss when her brother, Nicholas Curtis, passed away due to addiction. She shares, “I was 19 when my brother died of a heroin overdose.” This tragic event marked a turning point in her life and left a lasting impact on her journey.

Overcoming Personal Battles

Bravely confronting her own struggles, Curtis has triumphed over addiction. She admits, “I’m breaking the cycle that has basically destroyed the lives of generations in my family.” Her determination to rise above the challenges she has faced is truly inspiring.

Jamie Lee Curtis hilariously calls out Oscars on live TV: ‘Am I presenting?’

The reigning Best Supporting Actress winner said the Academy hasn’t asked her to present at the upcoming ceremony: “Would you please call?”

From The Bear to Haunted Mansion, Jamie Lee Curtis has seemingly been everywhere all at once since her Best Supporting Actress victory at the 2023 Oscars — that is, except in the planning stages for the upcoming Academy Awards.

The 65-year-old made a hilarious public plea to the Academy on Tuesday’s episode of Today, after claiming that the organization hasn’t contacted her to fulfill the traditional duty of presiding category champions presenting Oscars to their successors during the telecast.

“I’m going to ask them!” Curtis told Hoda Kotb after the host asked if she’s ready to take the Oscars stage on March 10, turning to the camera to make her case. “Oscar people, am I presenting? It’s usually a tradition that last year’s winner presents this year, but they haven’t called yet. Would you please call? I’d like to get a dress, and I’d like to arrange things.”

EW has reached out to the Academy for more information.

Curtis gave one of the year’s most memorable Oscars speeches after winning Best Supporting Actress for her role in the Best Picture-winning epic Everything Everywhere All at Once, tearfully dedicating her triumph to her famous parents Janet Leigh and Tony Curtis.

“My mother and my father were both nominated for Oscars in different categories,” she told the crowd before crying. “And I just won an Oscar!”

We’re catching up with @jamieleecurtis about her new children’s book ‘Just One More Sleep,’ how 65 is a ‘moment of reflection and excitement,’ reflects on 25 years of sobriety, shares what she learned in recovery in last year and more. pic.twitter.com/x9ElEAcg4h

— TODAY (@TODAYshow) January 16, 2024

Elsewhere on Today, Curtis spoke about her new children’s book, Just One More Sleep, and coming into a new sense of maturity at this stage of her life.

“When you have children, when you have books for children, it’s all about the future. The present is very hard because they’re growing,” she told Kotb. “When you’re my age, you’re not thinking about the future because the future means you’re going to be dead. I mean it. You’re very much more in the present moment.”

Curtis discuss her new book and the Oscars in the Today clip above.