Bette Davis Faced Mirror After Year of Silence

Two-time Oscar winner Bette Davis, known for her intense roles, faced profound personal challenges after a series of health setbacks in her mid-70s, including breast cancer, a double mastectomy, and a stroke. For an entire year, the formidable actress refused to look at her reflection, a deeply personal struggle documented by her longtime assistant, Kathryn Sermak.

Sermak was central to Davis' recovery, guiding her through rehabilitation. Davis had to relearn to walk twice, first after initial health issues and then following a hip injury. The Hollywood industry's perception of aging and illness presented further obstacles, with fears of being written off and losing insurance.

In August 1984, after a year of intensive rehabilitation, Davis decided to host a gathering at a rented Malibu home. This event, marked as a 'Big Day' by Sermak, signaled a turning point. It was on this occasion that Davis confronted her reflection in a mirror for the first time in a year, accepting the changes her body had undergone.

The Malibu party was attended by notable figures including Robert Wagner and Jill St. John. Wagner recalled it as a 'wonderful day, memorable,' highlighting Davis' great sense of humor. While friends were surprised by her changed appearance, having not seen her for over a year, Davis's resilience and spirit were evident.

Despite initial nervousness and the challenges of a stroke, Davis eventually returned to acting. She starred in television films like 'Murder With Mirrors' in late 1984 and 'As Summers Die' in 1986, and later the film 'The Whales of August.' Bette Davis passed away on October 6, 1989, at the age of 81.