When it comes to growing older, Sissy Spacek doesn’t exactly see it as a burden. In fact, the legendary actress, now 70, sees it as a time of newfound respect and confidence. "People start treating you with more respect. They open doors for you, and you’ve got the courage to speak your truth," Sissy exclusively shared with Closer Weekly in the latest issue, currently available on newsstands. "As long as you're healthy, it’s one of the best times of your life. You’ve earned it!"

A Journey Through Film: From 'Badlands' to Becoming an Icon

For Sissy, her career has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her breakout role in the 1973 film Badlands, where she starred alongside Martin Sheen, marked the beginning of her illustrious journey. "That movie changed everything for me," she recalls. "It was the moment I realized how powerful film could be as an art form. Every day on set was like stepping into a new adventure." Before landing this pivotal role, Sissy had dreams of making it as a singer, but things didn't quite work out that way. However, her passion for storytelling eventually led her to the screen, where she found her true calling.

Marriage and Motherhood: Building a Life Together

Sissy's life took another meaningful turn when she met Jack Fisk, the production designer for Badlands. The chemistry between them was undeniable, and they soon tied the knot. Together, they built a beautiful family, welcoming two daughters: Schuyler, now 37, and Madison, 31. "Jack is not only handsome but also incredibly funny and creative," Sissy gushes. "He’s the most imaginative person I’ve ever met, and our daughters inherited that same spark. Whether we’re working on a project or just hanging out, everything feels fun and inspired."

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Embracing the Empty Nest: A New Chapter Begins

As an empty nester, Sissy embraces this phase of her life with open arms. With her Oscar-winning performance as Loretta Lynn in Coal Miner’s Daughter sitting proudly at home, she reflects on her career with immense pride. "Every single movie I’ve done, I feel good about," she says. "There’s no regret because I’ve had the chance to explore so many different facets of life through my characters. From being an ingenue to portraying mothers and everything in between—it’s all been part of this incredible journey."

Throughout her career, Sissy has embraced every stage of life with grace and curiosity. "What I love about acting is that you get to reinvent yourself constantly," she explains. "You might be 14 one day, 29 the next, and 45 after that—but your heart and soul stay the same. The only difference is that you gain a deeper understanding of life as you grow older."