At 72, Jeff Bridges, the beloved Hollywood veteran, opens up about his challenging mornings which are a lingering effect from his recent battles with lymphatic cancer and a severe case of COVID-19.
Diagnosed two years ago with a large tumor, followed by a tough COVID-19 infection during chemotherapy, Bridges describes waking up as a significant effort, saying, “I really have to drag myself out of bed.”
Once up, Bridges engages in a rigorous daily routine involving stretching and intense breathing exercises, which he claims leave him trembling. He then enjoys making coffee and reading, before heading down to his garage turned creative studio in his Santa Barbara home. This space is equipped with cozy rugs, a plethora of books, various musical instruments, and his own ceramic and painting creations. Family photos, including those of his wife Sue, brother Beau, and his children and grandchildren, adorn the walls.
Bridges’ garage also serves as a recuperative space where he was brought directly from the hospital. Equipped with portable fencing, screen doors, and a water fountain, it was transformed by his wife into an indoor-outdoor healing area during his health battles. Here, Bridges spends his time painting, playing music, and reflecting on life’s unexpected gifts.
In a recent interview, Bridges shared insights into his philosophy on life, influenced heavily by his health struggles. He recounts the last gift from his late father, Lloyd Bridges, as a poignant lesson in appreciating unexpected gifts. Instead of the electric golf cart he desired, he received a motorized dump truck, which he later found invaluable.
This experience taught him to see the hidden value in life’s surprises, including his illnesses, which he now views as gifts that have deepened his appreciation for life.
Bridges reminisced about his upbringing, marked by unique family traditions like the “Time” his mother dedicated to each child, fostering a lifelong love of playful creativity. This foundation in creativity undoubtedly shaped his storied acting career, which spans from his early Oscar-nominated role in “The Last Picture Show” to his iconic portrayal of “The Dude” in “The Big Lebowski.”
Despite his achievements and the humorous persona he is known for, Bridges also opened up about the more challenging aspects of aging. He admits to struggles with memory and the physical limitations that have come with age and illness. Yet, his return to acting in “The Old Man,” a series on FX about a retired CIA agent, has been a triumphant affirmation of his enduring talent and resilience.
Bridges’ life, marked by both comedic and tragic turns, mirrors the depth of the characters he portrays. His ability to find humor and joy in adversity, his profound connections with family, and his philosophical outlook on life’s gifts offer a compelling narrative of a man who deeply values love, creativity, and resilience.
As he contemplates his journey, the actor finds solace in the simple routines with his wife, from watching TV together to the comfort of going to sleep beside her, surrounded by their dogs. For Jeff Bridges, every day is a blend of challenge and triumph, an ongoing testament to the enduring power of positivity and the profound impact of love.
