In an intimate private screening of the new biographical film I Am Woman, which chronicles the meteoric rise of 1970s singing sensation Helen Reddy, the legendary artist herself, now 78 years old, was surrounded by her loved ones as her life story unfolded on the big screen.
Helen's granddaughter, Lily Donat, shared her experience with Closer Weekly, currently available on newsstands. "She was completely captivated," Donat revealed. "I sat next to her, and we held hands as we watched her life come to life on the screen. She shared little stories and anecdotes, reliving those moments as if they were happening all over again. By the end, we were all in tears — it was such a deeply emotional and heartwarming experience."
The film, starring the talented Tilda Cobham-Hervey as Helen, takes viewers on a journey through the life of the native Australian singer who arrived in New York City in 1966. It highlights her marriage to manager Jeff Wald, played by Evan Peters, and her rise to fame with a string of iconic hits, including "Delta Dawn" and the unforgettable "I Am Woman," which became a rallying cry for the feminist movement.
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Her Message to Women: Confidence and Empowerment
Helen was always driven by a desire to connect with women and empower them. "I’m trying to find a way to reach women," she once said, "to give them a confidence in themselves that they’ve never had." Her music wasn't just entertainment; it was a powerful tool for change, inspiring countless women to embrace their strength and potential.
Facing Challenges with Grace
Even in the face of adversity, Helen's spirit remains unbroken. In 2015, she was diagnosed with dementia, but she continues to live her life with grace and dignity in a Los Angeles retirement home for performers. Despite her condition, her granddaughter Lily Donat shares, "She’s happy. She’s still singing. She’s in a more relaxed, peaceful phase of her life." Helen's resilience and positivity are truly remarkable, and she continues to inspire those around her.
A Journey Fueled by Determination
Helen's journey to success was anything but easy. When she first moved to the U.S. from Melbourne in 1966, she was a 25-year-old single mother with little money but immense determination. She had been performing since the age of four under the guidance of her entertainer parents, who instilled in her the belief that she was destined for greatness. Yet, as Donat explains, "She faced immense challenges, coming to a new city with a young child, being the sole breadwinner, and chasing her dreams while dealing with rejection after rejection. But Helen never gave up."
A Love Story Amid Hardship
In 1968, Helen met Jeff Wald, a 22-year-old secretary at the William Morris Agency. It was love at first sight, but life didn't get easier for the couple. "When we did eat, it was spaghetti," Helen recalled with a laugh. "And we spent what little money we had on cockroach spray." Despite the struggles, their love and partnership fueled their drive to succeed.
