Michelle Yeoh Says She “Felt Like a Failure” Amid Fertility Struggles

Michelle Yeoh Says She "Felt Like a Failure" Amid Fertility Struggles

As I reflect on Michelle Yeoh‘s heartfelt confession about her struggle with infertility and its impact on her personal life, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of empathy for this remarkable woman. Her journey is one that resonates deeply with me, as we both have walked the same path, albeit in different shoes.


Michelle Yeoh is reflecting on a difficult chapter in her life.

The actress from “Everything Everywhere All at Once” spoke candidly about her struggles with infertility and how it shaped her life experiences.

Michelle mentioned during the BBC Radio 4 podcast on Woman’s Hour, Nov. 19, that she has long desired to have children. She underwent fertility treatments to facilitate this dream, but admitted that the most challenging experience was enduring monthly disappointments, feeling like a failure each time.

It was a realization that she ultimately had to come to terms with after trying to conceive. 

At a certain stage, self-blame ceases,” she clarified. “There are aspects within your body that may not work as expected. That’s the reality. You need to release control and progress. I believe it’s essential to reach a point where you no longer blame yourself.

The Oscar-winning individual, who was wedded to Dickson Poon from 1988 to 1992, disclosed that the primary reason their first marriage ended was due to complications with her fertility.

Michelle, who married Jean Todt in 2023 following an 19-year long engagement, made it clear that she could sympathize with the perspective of her former spouse as well.

As a lifestyle expert, I’d put it this way: “It’s crucial to engage in some sincere self-talk, peering into the future and asking yourself, ‘Are we deeply connected now? Yet, can I provide him with the family he longs for in the next 10 or even 20 years?’ It’s all about fairness.

Michelle Yeoh Says She "Felt Like a Failure" Amid Fertility Struggles

This conversation between them is crucial,” she emphasized. “If one person desires children while the other does not, it’s a matter that needs to be addressed upfront. The journey ahead may bring pain and hardships. I believe it took great courage for us to acknowledge this early on and say, ‘Let’s not prolong this, as we have been doing.’

Michelle and Dickson, although no longer married, continue to have a strong relationship. Remarkably, Michelle was chosen as the godmother for Dickson’s oldest daughter, Dee Poon.

And while she has accepted this reality, it’s still been hard to grapple with at times.

Michelle Yeoh Says She "Felt Like a Failure" Amid Fertility Struggles

In a conversation with The Times on November 17th, she shared, “Perhaps the greatest sorrow in my life is not being able to have children of my own. Yet, the joy lies in having six godchildren, as well as numerous nephews and nieces.

She went on to say, “I avoid living with regrets as I’ve always given my absolute best, one hundred twenty percent. I put every effort into making things succeed, but unfortunately, that isn’t always enough.

However, she pointed out that there are times when “Relinquishing control can be beneficial, as it often propels you towards advancement.

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2024-11-19 17:50