Daisy Ridley Opens Up About Graves' Disease and The Challenges of Filming 'Young Woman And The Sea'

In an exclusive interview, actress Daisy Ridley has shared her journey of embodying the role of a record-breaking swimmer in the upcoming movie 'Young Woman And The Sea' and how a surprise health issue led her to prioritize her well-being. Ridley, known for her roles in the Star Wars franchise, revealed that she has been diagnosed with Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid.

The 32-year-old actress, who executive-produced the movie, dedicated herself to training for the physically demanding role of real-life athlete Gertrude "Trudy" Ederle, the first woman to swim the English Channel. Ridley trained under the guidance of Olympian Siobhan-Marie O'Connor, spending hours in the pool multiple times a week to prepare for the rigorous filming schedule.

Despite the challenges she faced during training, including moments of doubt and panic, Ridley pushed through and successfully completed her scenes in the cold and harsh waters of the Bulgarian set. On the last day of filming, she surprised even herself by swimming for an extended period, leaving her trainer in awe.

While Ridley has always been open about her health struggles, including her previous diagnoses of endometriosis and polycystic ovaries, her recent Graves' disease diagnosis came as a surprise. Following symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue, and irritability, Ridley sought medical advice, leading to the diagnosis in September 2023.

The actress admits that the diagnosis brought about mixed emotions, including sadness and frustration. However, it also prompted her to make lifestyle changes, including medication management and adopting a more mindful diet. Ridley decided to go gluten-free, which she believes has contributed to reducing inflammation and improving her overall well-being.

Through this experience, Ridley has gained a renewed sense of body awareness and a deeper understanding of the importance of listening to one's body. She now prioritizes rest, implements holistic practices such as infrared saunas and acupuncture, and carries rose quartz for emotional balance and self-love.

In discussing her health journey, Ridley acknowledges the common tendency among women to downplay or ignore their own well-being. She emphasizes the need for women to listen to their bodies and advocate for their own health, urging others not to dismiss their symptoms.

Despite the challenges she has faced, Ridley maintains a positive perspective. She recognizes that her health issues, although impactful, are less severe compared to what some others endure. However, she firmly believes that no one should have to suffer in silence and supports raising awareness about undiagnosed or underdiagnosed conditions.

As Ridley continues to find balance and prioritize her well-being, she remains dedicated to her physical fitness. Working with personal trainer Matt Bevan, she follows a tailored exercise routine that focuses on functionality and coordination. Through a combination of mobility exercises, bodyweight movements, and coordination drills, Ridley continues to stay active and resilient.

In sharing her story, Daisy Ridley serves as an inspiration, encouraging others to prioritize their health and advocate for themselves. Her determination and resilience in both her career and personal life are a testament to her incredible strength. 'Young Woman And The Sea' showcasing her captivating performance is set to be a powerful tribute to the groundbreaking achievements of athletes like Gertrude Ederle.