Susan Sarandon, one of the most iconic actresses of her generation, has built a reputation not only for her incredible work on screen but also for her fearless attitude off-screen, never one to hold back or shy away from expressing herself, and when people recently began criticizing her clothing choices, she decided to respond in a way that was unmistakably bold and true to who she is.

Sarandon’s career has been nothing short of remarkable, with her breakout role as Janet Weiss in the 1975 cult classic musical The Rocky Horror Picture Show firmly establishing her as a talented actress capable of taking on any role, and from there, she starred in numerous acclaimed films, including the beloved Thelma & Louise, which earned her a nomination for Best Actress at the Academy Awards, and she ultimately won an Academy Award for her powerful performance in Dead Man Walking, solidifying her place as one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses.

Throughout her career, Sarandon has been a strong advocate for body positivity and self-expression, never one to conform to societal expectations, and her unapologetic nature has extended not just to her acting but also to the way she presents herself in the public eye, making it clear that she lives life on her own terms.

During a red carpet event, Sarandon wore a striking outfit consisting of a white jacket paired with a black bra, a look that some found daring, and while it certainly turned heads, it also drew criticism, with one journalist even going so far as to call her ensemble “totally inappropriate,” but instead of responding with words or feeling the need to justify her fashion choices, Sarandon let a single image do all the talking. She posted a throwback picture of herself confidently posing in her underwear, proudly displaying her figure, proving once again that a picture is worth a thousand words, and with that move, she effectively silenced anyone questioning what was or wasn’t appropriate for her, reinforcing the message that no one else has the right to dictate how she chooses to dress or present herself.

Sarandon has always made it clear that she is not concerned with aging in the traditional sense and instead chooses to focus her energy on what truly matters to her, sharing in an interview that when you realize your time is finite and precious, you naturally stop wasting energy on trivial things and prioritize surrounding yourself with people who are vital, curious, brave, and adventurous, a mindset that has clearly guided her through both her personal life and her career. When asked about how she maintains her beauty, Sarandon offered a refreshingly down-to-earth response, saying that aging gracefully comes down to laughing a lot, getting a normal amount of exercise, eating well, and staying out of the sun, emphasizing that these simple habits are far more effective than chasing unattainable standards of beauty, although she did add with a smile that having an amazing makeup and hair team certainly doesn’t hurt. Sarandon’s approach to life, aging, and self-expression is a powerful reminder that confidence, authenticity, and a refusal to conform to narrow expectations are truly what keep a person vibrant and beautiful, and her fearless response to criticism serves as inspiration to countless fans who admire her not just for her incredible talent but also for her unwavering spirit. In an industry that often pressures women to fit a certain mold, Susan Sarandon stands out as someone who refuses to shrink herself to make others comfortable, continuing to live her life boldly, unapologetically, and with a grace that comes from knowing exactly who she is and what she stands for, reminding all of us that real beauty has nothing to do with age or appearance and everything to do with attitude, authenticity, and the courage to be unapologetically yourself.