Chrissy Metz Breaks Free From the Script to Own Her Narrative
The ‘This Is Us’ actress opens up about overcoming impostor syndrome, bidding farewell to Kate Pearson, and striving for harmonious Libra-inspired balance.
Cathy Cassata is a journalist focused on health, mental wellness, medical breakthroughs, and inspiring individuals.
As the beloved series "This Is Us" wrapped up on May 24, Chrissy Metz reflects on closing the chapter with the show’s storyline, her fellow cast members, and the iconic character Kate Pearson, whom she portrayed over six impactful years.
“I see myself in Kate, and she reflects parts of who I once was. Portraying her evolution into a strong, assertive woman has inspired me to embrace my own voice in new ways,” Metz shares.
Metz openly acknowledges that playing Kate has empowered her vulnerability, which in turn has bolstered her confidence and self-assurance. “This role has been instrumental in helping me become the person I’m striving to fully embody.”
Fans often blur the lines between Chrissy and Kate, frequently addressing her as the character in public. “I always clarify, ‘I’m Chrissy, not Kate,’ but it’s touching that people connect with her so deeply.”
Still, Metz admits that detaching from Kate healthily poses challenges. “When your fame is tied to a particular role, moving beyond it can make you question your identity. It’s a complex transition.”
Her faith and ongoing therapy provide essential support through this change, tools she’s relied on during previous life challenges. “I’m grateful to have access to mental health care and therapy, which have been pivotal in my journey,” she explains.
Therapy became especially crucial after a panic attack on her 30th birthday, a period when she was married and working over 70 hours weekly as a talent agent.
“I was in a career that didn’t align with my true self. My body and mind were signaling distress,” Metz recalls.
During a movie night with loved ones, she suddenly felt overwhelmed, fearing for her life. “I envisioned the tragic scene of an aspiring actor’s final moments—this was the panic gripping me,” she recounts.
Though anxiety had been a lifelong companion, this was her first panic attack. Reflecting, she attributes it to resisting emotional comfort through food.
“Food was never the root issue; it’s a symptom. Removing it forces suppressed feelings to surface, which can be daunting,” Metz explains.
Seeking healing, she joined a 12-Step Program and recognized that despite love, her marriage wasn’t fostering mutual happiness. “Like Kate and Toby, love isn’t always enough if you’re growing apart,” she notes.
Though the panic attack was frightening and anxiety lingered, Metz values the wake-up call. “It pushed me to confront why I was harming myself with food and to address deep-rooted trauma and family issues that surfaced at 30.”
Her upbringing involved emotional and physical abuse from a stepfather who criticized her weight, leaving lasting scars.
Therapy offered the validation and tools she longed for, supplemented by journaling, meditation, and gratitude practices.
“I began making progress toward the life I envisioned,” she reflects.
Embracing Growth Amidst Challenges
At 22, Metz relocated from Florida to Los Angeles, encouraged by an agent impressed by her singing. Pursuing acting and music dreams, she initially worked as a talent agent representing notable artists.
“That experience gave me invaluable insight into the industry, unlike most actors,” she says. Yet after nine years, she felt stuck on the sidelines.
“It’s tough when your passion feels just out of reach. I loved supporting others but wondered if I’d ever step into the spotlight myself.”
Post-30, she reignited her artistic pursuits and sought healthier work-life balance.
“Balance isn’t widely taught; society often glorifies relentless hustle. I hope that mindset is evolving,” she remarks.
Her perseverance paid off with a role in "American Horror Story" in 2011, but "This Is Us" marked her true breakthrough, offering career stability.
“This role felt like a real job, one that could sustain me,” she states.
Beyond career success, Metz values how the show thoughtfully portrays mental health topics, breaking stigmas through its storytelling.
“Educating through entertainment reduces fear and shame, which is vital for mental health journeys,” she emphasizes.
Kate’s struggles with eating disorders provide nuanced perspectives on a complex issue, informed by Metz’s own experiences.
“Food was a coping mechanism for me, a way to numb emotions,” she reveals.
Prioritizing Self-Care and Harmony
As a Libra, Metz feels a natural pull toward equilibrium. “I’m always striving for balance, though it can be elusive,” she admits.
Despite demanding schedules, she maintains rituals like evening baths, inspired by her therapist’s advice to ‘wash the day away.’
Music, meditation, and gratitude journaling also support her emotional wellbeing.
Saying “no” remains challenging, especially as a newer actress navigating industry expectations. Metz evaluates opportunities by their alignment with her joy and intentions.
“Sometimes I accept things out of obligation, but that energy isn’t genuine balance,” she reflects.
Despite growing acclaim, impostor syndrome lingers. “I often feel like the new kid, doubting my wit and worth compared to seasoned peers,” she confides.
Her 2018 memoir reveals her hesitance to engage fully with her castmates due to self-doubt.
“I’ve learned it’s okay to be at different life stages and to honor my feelings,” she says.
Her insecurity stems from childhood experiences of feeling unheard. “I hesitate to take up space, fearing intrusion,” Metz explains.
To combat impostor feelings, she reminds herself that self-judgment is harsher than external critique and that confidence grows from embracing vulnerability.
“Confidence is trusting yourself enough to face challenges, whether it’s a simple text or asking for what you deserve,” she says.
She separates confidence from ego, focusing on gratitude and the belief that everyone deserves good things.
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
Six years on "This Is Us" forged deep friendships Metz cherishes.
“We spent more time together than with anyone else, sharing vulnerabilities and daily experiences. That bond is rare and precious,” she says.
Though they’ll remain connected, she’ll miss their regular presence and the camaraderie on set.
Her favorite memory is winning the SAG Award for Best Ensemble, a milestone validating their collective talent.
“Being recognized alongside cable and streaming giants was incredibly special,” Metz recalls.
She allows herself moments of emotion over the show’s end, acknowledging the weight of six years of family, friendship, and professional identity.
“It’s about finding purpose beyond a role and embracing new chapters,” she reflects.
Looking forward, she aims to stay present, trusting that opportunities will come when ready.
Her upcoming projects include completing an album developed during breaks from filming, following her vocal feature on the Oscar-nominated "I’m Standing With You."
Expanding her horizons, Metz launched Joyful Heart Wine Company in 2021, emphasizing community and joy.
She also aspires to create a TV show and pursue Broadway performances or playwriting, lifelong dreams she’s determined to realize.
“Dreams remain intangible until realized, but I’m committed to staying creative and balanced,” she concludes.
Credits
- Talent: Chrissy Metz
- Photographer: Ryan Pfluger
- Creative Director: Liz Brown
- Hair Stylist: Hailey Adickes
- Makeup Artist: Motoko Honjo Clayton
- Fashion Stylist: Jessica Paster
- Producer: Lisa Sheldon
- Production Coordinator: Ellie Stills
- Production Assistant: Gabe Niles
- Photography Assistant: Amanda Yanez
- Videography: Micah Hamilton and WesFilms
- Clothing and Shoes: Eloquii, Lane Bryant, and Torrid
- Jewelry: Anita Ko, Margo Siegel, and Chrissy's own
- Editorial Director: Nick Ingalls
- Casting Director: Samantha Kane
By Cathy Cassata
Cathy Cassata specializes in health, mental health, medical news, and inspirational stories.
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