Jennie Garth, the former star of the iconic television series *Beverly Hills, 90210*, has unveiled a deeply personal side of herself in her new memoir, *I Choose Me: Chasing Joy, Finding Purpose, and Embracing Reinvention*. The memoir, which is part of Garth’s evolving “I Choose Me” movement, sheds light on her life after the show, touching upon her struggles with mental health, personal relationships, and ultimately, her journey towards self-acceptance.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/jennie-garth-people-cover-2-972de0a4cac84c85beb4f4d4d436fbd8.jpg)
In her book and a cover feature for *People* magazine, Garth recalls the pressures of youth stardom, stating that the experience was akin to being thrust into the whirlwind of fame without any preparation. Reflecting on her character Kelly Taylor’s memorable declaration, “I choose me,” Garth admits that as a younger woman, she didn’t fully grasp the pivotal nature of that choice. It is only after years of personal trials, including a painful divorce, that she has begun to understand the importance of prioritising oneself.
Garth’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Following her marriage to actor Peter Facinelli, which ended in 2012 after 17 years, Garth encountered spiralling anxiety and depression. Her struggles reached a peak during this tumultuous period, marked by unhealthy coping mechanisms, including alcohol and medication. At one particularly low point, she sought help at the Canyon Ranch rehabilitation centre, a decision that would be pivotal in her battle against self-destructive behaviours.
Despite the glittering exterior associated with fame, Garth describes a life overshadowed by an oppressive loneliness. She often felt undeserving of the attention and accolades, leading her to adopt behaviours aimed at avoiding the spotlight. This self-imposed isolation compounded her feelings of unworthiness, prompting her to restrict her diet and pursue cosmetic surgery in a desperate attempt to meet perceived beauty standards.
The aftermath of her divorce only deepened these challenges, as Garth found herself facing the daunting task of redefining her identity beyond her role as a spouse and mother. “I was my own worst critic,” she reflects, recalling the internal battles she fought long after her marriage ended. Recognising this destructive narrative became a turning point, opening the door to forgiveness, not only of others but also of herself.
Garth has since forged a healthier relationship with Facinelli, arising from her commitment to co-parent their three daughters amicably. This newfound camaraderie is a testament to Garth’s growth, reinforcing her belief that letting go of past grievances is critical for personal healing. “I noticed my light really dimming,” she recalls, alluding to her transformation as she began to prioritise her own wellbeing.
In her personal life, Garth is back on solid ground, having married actor Dave Abrams. However, even this relationship faced its hurdles, particularly with the pressures surrounding in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) and challenging pregnancy journeys that resulted in multiple miscarriages. The couple briefly separated, but the time apart offered Garth invaluable lessons in communication and resilience. “It all comes down to people-pleasing,” she reflects, emphasizing the importance of aligning one’s life with personal desires rather than external expectations.
As Garth approaches the next chapter of her life, she does so with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity. The resonance of her memoir’s title, *I Choose Me*, reverberates throughout her experiences, highlighting the liberating power of self-prioritisation. “Even though it took a while, I’m finally at a place comfortable choosing myself,” she affirms, embodying the message she hopes to share with others.
*I Choose Me: Chasing Joy, Finding Purpose, and Embracing Reinvention* is set for release on April 14 and is already available for pre-order. With this memoir, Garth aims to inspire readers who may be navigating their own struggles, illustrating the transformative journey of self-acceptance and personal growth. Her story is a reminder that it is never too late to embrace one’s own identity and fill life with joy and purpose.