Christina Applegate believes next awards show could be her last 'as an actor'

Christina Applegate has opened up about how the upcoming 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards could 'probably' be her last as an actor.

In 2021, Applegate - who most recently starred in hit Netflix series Dead to Me - revealed she had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

The 51-year-old has spoken openly about how the autoimmune condition has impacted her career, even admitting that she believes her portrayal of Jen Harding in Dead to Me will likely be her last acting job.

Ahead of the 29th Annual Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, set to be held on 26 February, 2023, the actor has spoken out about why the awards ceremony means so much to her.

In an interview with the Los Angeles Times, Applegate - who first rose to fame in sitcom Married... with Children - explained the awards will be her sixth time attending the show.

She said: "When you go to that particular event, it’s all your people - you don’t have anybody but the actors there. And despite the reputation actors have, everyone is really lovely.

"It’s my last awards show as an actor probably, so it’s kind of a big deal.

"Right now, I couldn’t imagine getting up at 5:00 a.m. and spending 12 to 14 hours on a set; I don’t have that in me at this moment."

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Applegate has been nominated for the SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series as a result of her role in Dead to Me.

Applegate has been nominated for the award five times in previous years, and in 2021 was also nominated as part of The Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast (or Ensemble) in a Comedy Series.

As well as the upcoming awards ceremony holding a particularly special place in Applegate's heart, her nomination for her role in Dead to Me holds great significance too.

Netflix

Applegate played the hot-headed character of real estate agent Jen Harding, a recent widow and mum to two boys who forms an unlikely friendship with Judy Hale (Linda Cardellini).

The pair's meeting descends into a chaotic and hilarious journey, but one which ultimately demonstrates a relationship of complete and utter love and acceptance.

This love was also felt on the set of the Netflix series, with Applegate noting how 'incredible' the cast and crew were at adapting in light of her diagnosis.

The Anchorman actor reflected: "I was a wreck every day, but most of that wreck would take place in my trailer by myself. But there were times I’d break down on set and be like, ‘I can’t, we have to take a break, I need a half-hour,’ and everyone was so loving that it was OK."

If you’re living with MS and need emotional support or information about the disorder, call MS Society’s Helpline for free Monday to Friday 9am to 7pm (except bank holidays) on 0808 800 8000 or visit their website.