Sally Field may be known for her iconic roles in Hollywood, but one of her earliest on-screen appearances was as Sister Bertrille in the 1960s sitcom, “The Flying Nun.” Despite the show’s popularity, Field has been vocal about her dislike for the role, citing the lack of sex appeal in playing a nun during a time of cultural revolution in the 1960s.
In a recent interview with journalist Willie Geist, Field candidly expressed her feelings about the show, stating, “I hated doing ‘The Flying Nun’ so much.” At 18-19 years old, Field struggled with the idea of portraying a nun when society was embracing counterculture and liberation.
Although “The Flying Nun” ran for three successful seasons from 1967 to 1970, Field never warmed up to the role. She admitted in a 2012 interview with Oprah that she immediately rejected the concept when it was first presented to her.
Despite her reservations, Field’s stepfather urged her to take the role after her previous show, “Gidget,” was cancelled. While she initially resisted, she ultimately accepted the part out of fear of not working again.
The success of “The Flying Nun” paved the way for Field’s illustrious career in Hollywood, leading to memorable roles in films such as “Smokey and the Bandit,” “Steel Magnolias,” and “Forrest Gump.” Her versatility as an actress has solidified her status as a Hollywood icon.
To watch Field’s early work in “The Flying Nun,” viewers can stream the entire series on platforms like Roku or Tubi for free.
Field’s candid admission about her time on “The Flying Nun” serves as a reminder of the challenges she faced as a young actress navigating the complexities of Hollywood. Her journey from disillusionment to success highlights her resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.