From Blossom to The Big Bang Theory with a not-so-shabby Ph.D in neuroscience on the side, Mayim Bialik is back in our homes every Thursday night via her latest leading role in FOX’s Call Me Kat. We recently caught up with the primetime player to talk aging in the public eye, why being cruelty free is so important to her character, and her new mental health–focused podcast, which launches today.
I’m sure you’re asked to do TV a lot; why this project?
Jim Parsons brought me this project after The Big Bang Theory. I love Jim and trust him so much as a performer and producer and I jumped at the opportunity to play a multi-faceted, goofy, fun, awkward, funny lady!
All of your character’s accessories on the show are cruelty-free. Is this something that’s important to you in real life as well?
Absolutely! I’ve been cruelty-free for a long time and I love that we are bringing some of that to my character. Our designer, Beth Morgan, is super on board with finding creative ways to create a look for Kat, which is consistent with her animal-loving ways. For me (and her!) that includes no leather, wool or fur.
You became very well-known when you were young; what is the hardest thing about aging in the public eye?
Everyone examining your wrinkles! Haha. Having evidence of my youth on video is sobering for sure. I see me at my “best” and then compare that to the mirror—I can’t help it! I am a human! Also, there is a lot of pressure in Hollywood to have procedures done and that can be hard.
What have you been doing for yourself wellness-wise during COVID?
Well, I started a mental health podcast because I think we all need some comfort right now. Understanding what this year has brought up for us is important. Destigmatizing mental health is also critical. We launch this week (on January 12th) and our website is Bialikbreakdown.com. I’ve tried to keep up with yoga (online) and Taekwondo (through Zoom). I take walks because nature is like medicine for me. I also have kept up meditating with the free app I use as much as I can. Even 10 minutes a day helps.
You are trained as a neuroscientist and you have your podcast—what advice do you have for anyone who may be struggling with their overall well-being during this time?
You are not alone. We are all in an unprecedented time—don’t hope things get better, get help now!
