Lindsay Lohan Says ‘Terrifying Moments’ as a Young Star Influence How She Raises Son Luai, 2: ‘I Have PTSD to the Extreme’

Lindsay Lohan Shares Childhood Trauma from Paparazzi that Influences Parenting Approach

Lindsay Lohan, the renowned actress, recently unfolded her profound reflections on past distressing encounters with the paparazzi during her adolescence and how these experiences have significantly influenced her parenting methods for her two-year-old son, Luai. In an exclusive interview with The Sunday Times, Lohan candidly discussed the challenges of growing up under the constant scrutiny of unrestricted paparazzi access and relentless tabloid attention. The actress, now 39 years old, delved into the haunting memories of being relentlessly pursued by the paparazzi, leading to extreme post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that still affects her today, emphasizing her determination to shield her family from similar ordeals. Lohan expressed, “I don’t ever want my family to experience being chased by the paparazzi the way I was. They were terrifying moments I had in my life — I have PTSD to the extreme from those things. The most invasive situations. Really scary. And I pray stuff like that never comes back. It’s not safe. It’s not fair.”

Furthermore, Lohan highlighted her ongoing discussions with her spouse, Bader Shammas, on safeguarding Luai’s privacy and assessing the extent of media exposure he should receive to ensure a secure and balanced upbringing. The couple, who commenced their relationship in 2020 and later tied the knot in July 2022, welcomed their son into the world in July 2023. The actress emphasized the pivotal role of social media in empowering young celebrities to narrate their stories on their own terms, which Lohan believes has aided in reclaiming control over personal narratives. She noted, “I feel that it [the paparazzi’s invasion of personal privacy] doesn’t happen as badly now as it did. It was way worse when I was younger, but now, because of social media, people can tell their own story in the way that you want it to be told. It has reclaimed the ownership of your life.”

Reflecting on her personal journey in the spotlight, Lohan acknowledged the challenges of delineating between her private and public life, a skill she had to acquire over time without formal guidance. Despite her celebrity status, Lohan expressed discomfort with fans covertly filming her in public spaces and emphasized her preference for direct interactions, such as requesting a photograph. The actress underlined that such actions as surreptitious filming can be unsettling and invasive, underscoring the importance of clear communication and respect for personal boundaries. Lohan’s upcoming project includes starring in the family comedy ‘Freakier Friday,’ a sequel to the beloved 2003 film ‘Freaky Friday,’ alongside Jamie Lee Curtis. Despite a significant time gap since their last collaboration, Lohan disclosed that she and Curtis, aged 66, have maintained a consistent connection over the years, with Curtis serving as a trusted confidante during Lohan’s turbulent public episodes.

The decision to reprise her role in the sequel was initially proposed by Curtis during Lohan’s pregnancy, a moment that Lohan deemed unsuitable for the project’s commencement. However, with the passage of time, the opportunity aligned perfectly with Lohan’s personal and professional development, marking her first on-screen portrayal of a mother. As the release date for ‘Freakier Friday’ approaches, scheduled for August 8, Lohan reminisced about the positive influence of timing in her career trajectory, enabling her to undertake new roles that resonate with her present life stage. The actress’s journey from a young star navigating the perils of fame to a mindful parent and seasoned actor reflects a profound evolution shaped by personal growth and resilience.

In conclusion, Lindsay Lohan’s poignant narrative underscores the enduring impact of childhood trauma on adult experiences and choices, underscoring the importance of self-awareness and proactive measures in overcoming adversity. Her candid reflections offer a poignant reminder of the complexities of fame and the imperative of setting boundaries to safeguard one’s well-being and relationships. As Lohan continues to navigate the nuances of fame and parenthood, her journey serves as a testament to the resilience and transformative power of self-reflection and personal growth in overcoming past traumas.

Let us remember that Lindsay Lohan’s journey is a testament to the resilience and transformative power of self-reflection and personal growth in overcoming past traumas while simultaneously balancing the demands of fame and parenthood.