Ashley Judd, 57, Announces Return to Acting After Taking Time to ‘Heal’

Ashley Judd is ready for her next act. The 57-year-old Hollywood icon announced that she’s returning to acting after taking time away for self-reflection and emotional healing. “Thank you for often sharing you want to see me make another movie!” Judd wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “I am going to make a movie and executive-produce it.”

(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Ima(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for CMT)ges for CMT)

Her upcoming project, 21Down, holds special meaning for the actress, who said the film reflects her personal beliefs. “Caden and his family’s lives are consistent with my values about kindness, what love looks and feels like, standing up for each other, and embracing all humans,” Judd shared. “I am eager to visit and connect with you with mirth and excitement about my return to acting.”

Healing Through Self-Discovery & Nature

Judd’s announcement comes after years of inner work and personal reflection. A source told Daily Mail that the actress has been on a “long journey to reconnect with herself and find joy in everyday things.”

“She wants to experience the joy she never had as a child,” the insider said. “Her hope is to lose all the drama and expectations and splash around like a silly child enveloped in light.”

Judd shared glimpses of her healing process on social media, including a trip to Greece earlier this year. “I cannot give what I do not have,” she wrote. “Trauma and deprivation I do not transform is trauma and deprivation I will transfer. Thus, I start with myself.”

A Career Rooted in Strength & Resilience

The star of “Double Jeopardy” and “A Time to Kill” has long been known for her powerful screen presence and emotional depth. After decades in the public eye, Judd chose to step away following a devastating leg injury in 2021 while in the Republic of the Congo.

She has since dedicated herself to recovery, education, and advocacy, earning degrees from the University of Kentucky, Harvard’s Kennedy School, and UC Berkeley. Yet, fans have continued to hope for her return to film, a wish she’s finally ready to fulfill.

Judd’s personal transformation follows deep grief. In 2022, her mother, country legend Naomi Judd, died by suicide. Ashley later spoke at the White House about mental health awareness and suicide prevention. “On the day she died, the disease of mental illness was lying to her and convinced her that it would never get better,” Judd said in her emotional address.

Her resilience has inspired fans around the world. And now, as she prepares for her next chapter, Judd’s message remains clear: healing, hope, and rediscovering joy are lifelong journeys.

“I’m eager to connect with you again—with mirth and excitement,” she said. “Love, Ashley.”

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