Winona Ryder recently reflected on her infamous 2001 shoplifting scandal, revealing why the incident led her to “check out” of Hollywood for a time. In a new interview with Esquire, the “Stranger Things” star discussed the profound impact the event had on her life and career.
Ryder’s 2001 arrest for shoplifting at a California department store resulted in a conviction for grand theft and vandalism. She was sentenced to three years of probation, fined, and required to complete community service. The event caused a media frenzy, with Ryder becoming a focal point of public scrutiny.
“It’s so funny, because there’s so much lore around that story, but it really couldn’t have been more of me thinking I’m going to my car to get something…” Ryder explained in the Esquire interview, shedding light on the context of her arrest. At the time, Ryder was dealing with personal challenges, including mental health struggles and the use of prescribed painkillers for a broken arm.
When asked how she managed the intense media attention surrounding her case, Ryder candidly admitted that she “checked out” as a coping mechanism. “I think I just checked out,” she said, adding, “There was a period when I was not in season.”
Despite the fallout from the scandal, Ryder made a successful return to Hollywood years later. She is now set to reprise her role as Lydia Deetz in Tim Burton’s much-anticipated sequel to the 1988 classic “Beetlejuice,” titled “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.” The film, which also features Jenna Ortega, Michael Keaton, and Catherine O’Hara, is scheduled to hit theaters this Friday.
Jenna Ortega recently showed support for Ryder at the Venice Film Festival, where photographers were urging Ryder to remove her sunglasses for pictures. Ortega was heard saying, “No. You don’t have to,” standing by Ryder as she appeared hesitant to comply.
Ryder’s return to the screen in “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” is a significant moment in her career, demonstrating her resilience and enduring appeal in Hollywood.
