Imagine defying the hands of time at 84, radiating timeless beauty amidst a galaxy of stars at a glamorous event – that's the captivating reality of Donna Mills, the iconic Knots Landing actress who continues to inspire us all!
But here's where it gets intriguing: Recently, Donna dazzled at the Farrah Fawcett Foundation's 2025 Tex-Mex Fiesta in Dallas, Texas, alongside her cherished pals and fellow Hollywood legends Alana Stewart, Morgan Fairchild, and Jaclyn Smith. These trailblazing women, all veterans of the silver screen, turned heads in their stunning ensembles, and Donna stood out in a vibrant turquoise outfit adorned with playful fringe and a sleek black belt that accentuated her trim waist. Her blonde locks were styled in a flawless blowout, complemented by sultry eye makeup that captured the essence of her legendary character, Abby Fairgate.
For those new to her story, Donna is a powerhouse talent who brought the scheming yet unforgettable Abby to life on Knots Landing from 1980 to 1989. Before that breakout role, she dipped her toes into the acting world with a film debut in 1967's The Incident, followed by a three-year stint on the soap opera Love Is a Many Splendored Thing. Her career truly soared when she starred opposite the legendary Clint Eastwood in the 1971 thriller Play Misty for Me, showcasing her versatility and charisma.
Now, at 84, Donna graciously shared her secrets to maintaining that youthful glow in a chat with First For Women. She swears by clean eating, explaining that while she adores bread, desserts, ice cream, and all those indulgent treats, carbs are her nemesis when it comes to weight gain, so she steers clear of them as much as possible. Drawing from her past as a dancer, she emphasizes protein-packed meals to fuel her active lifestyle – a smart approach that's easy for beginners to grasp, as protein helps build and repair muscles, keeping you strong and satisfied longer.
And this is the part most people miss: Donna discovered a fantastic Keto cookbook and started whipping up low- and no-sugar desserts that are surprisingly scrumptious. For those unfamiliar, Keto is a diet focusing on high fats, moderate proteins, and very low carbs to encourage your body to burn fat for fuel instead of sugars – think creamy avocado-based treats or almond flour goodies that mimic your favorite sweets without the carb overload. She also stresses the importance of hydration for boundless energy, admitting she once neglected to drink water throughout the day but now realizes its vital role in keeping skin plump, digestion smooth, and overall vitality high.
When it comes to staying fit, Donna opened up to AARP about her go-to routines. She hits the tennis court five times a week for two-hour sessions, lucky enough to play on a clay surface that's gentler on the joints compared to harsh concrete. At home, she maintains a mini gym where she lifts light weights, pedals on her Peloton for cardio fun, and stretches extensively on her ballet barre – a balanced regimen that combines cardio, strength, and flexibility, perfect for anyone looking to stay agile without overdoing it.
But here's where it gets real and a tad controversial: Despite her disciplined routine, Donna deals with arthritis like many in her age group, and it can be painful. Yet, she pushes through with sheer willpower, reminding us she's no superhero but always keeps the long-term rewards in sight. This raises an interesting debate: Is it worth enduring discomfort for that youthful edge, or should we embrace aging gracefully without the grind? What do you think – is discipline the key to eternal vitality, or are there healthier ways to age?
On skincare, Donna's advice is straightforward and refreshingly candid: 'Avoid the sun at all costs!' She insists it wreaks havoc on the skin, accelerating wrinkles and damage – a tip that's backed by dermatologists who warn that UV rays are the top culprit for premature aging. And when asked about cosmetic procedures, she firmly declines, saying she'd rather embrace her natural lines than risk looking unnatural. This stance might spark controversy among those who swear by fillers and lifts, but Donna prefers authenticity over alterations. It's a bold choice in an industry obsessed with perfection – do you agree with her 'no enhancements' philosophy, or do you see value in modern beauty boosts? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Lastly, Donna remains deeply connected to her Knots Landing family, particularly co-stars Joan Van Ark and Michele Lee. 'We're still close buddies after 40 years,' she told AARP, even reuniting for fans and laughing at sightings of people sporting her character's dramatic eye makeup. It's a heartwarming testament to enduring friendships forged on set.
What are your secrets to staying youthful at any age? Do Donna's tips resonate with you, or do you disagree with her sun-avoidance or anti-enhancement views? We'd love to hear your opinions – join the conversation below!
