Gabrielle Union is opening up about how menopause forced her to confront deeply ingrained ideas about womanhood, aging, and self-worth—and how she ultimately came out on the other side feeling more grounded than ever.
In a recent People in 10 interview, the 53-year-old actor reflected on how menopause initially hit her emotionally before she found a new sense of confidence. While the physical symptoms were challenging, it was the psychological impact that caught her off guard.
“It challenges you to look at life differently,” Union explained, describing menopause not as a closing chapter but “as a beginning.”
Still, that shift didn’t come easily. She admitted that early on, she struggled with feelings of shame and isolation. “I felt like my value as a woman was diminishing,” she said, adding that the experience made her feel alone in ways she hadn’t expected.
Union has been candid about the unpredictability of menopause symptoms, noting that no two experiences are the same. “When you’re dealing with hot flashes—whether it’s the first time or the hundredth—everyone is different,” she shared.
That reality became very public in 2025, when she revealed she had a particularly intense hot flash at the Met Gala, prompting Bad Bunny to check on her mid-event.
Over time, however, Union said her perspective changed. The feelings of shame didn’t last, and she began to see menopause as something worth talking about openly. “Now, I feel empowered,” she said. “I’m going to talk about it, and I’m not going to lose a thing.”
Union also said she’s excited to help normalize discussions between patients and doctors, emphasizing that people don’t have to suffer in silence.
“I want to encourage people to talk to their health care providers so they can figure out what best options are for them,” Union explained. “Because there are options.”