Molly Shannon Talks Women Being Proactive About Health

In a little bit of the “behind the scenes” of the bright lights of the 77th Emmy Awards last night, GSK’s THRIVE@50+ campaign brought a powerful message to the spotlight—celebrating the vitality, beauty and resilience of actors over 50 during the Emmys Governors Gala. With elegance and authenticity, the campaign highlighted the personal journeys that have shaped several stars, while raising awareness about the often-overlooked impact of shingles on life’s most meaningful moments. We caught up with multi-Emmy nominated actress and comedian Molly Shannon at the party to talk the partnership, post-show plans and why sleep is her go-to on big nights.

Why this campaign?

“Well, I really like the messaging. And now, as a women over 50, I’m feeling I’m at a point in my life where I worked so hard in my career and as a mom to have created this beautiful life that I want to be here to enjoy it. I feel like I’m stepping into my power, and I feel like I would not want anything to keep me from being my best self. I think it’s so important to, as a women, be proactive about your health and to educate yourself—for this campaign in particular, speak to your doctor or pharmacist about your risk for shingles.”

A big part of the messaging is around “thriving.” What does that word mean to you? 

“I would say it is just being present in your life and being able to enjoy the moment. And, of course, that includes taking care of yourself. I think as a busy working woman and mother, you can give to a lot of people—but you also have to really take care of yourself and be proactive about your health.”

For the Emmys: What are you most excited for? 

“Oh! Well, I’m so excited to celebrate my peers. I have so many friends nominated, and it’s just fun to dress up, get your hair and makeup done. I work with wonderful people, so it feels like a party—like you are getting ready with your friends. And then I’m so excited to be part of the campaign about raising awareness about shingles. GSK is doing a great THRIVE@50+ campaign to raise awareness about shingles and educating as a woman who wants to enjoy these moments in life…like today, on the red carpet, I want to be able to show up and be my best.”

You mentioned hair and makeup, there’s a lot of prep work involved for these big shows, and you have all these people around with you. What are some of your day-of wellness tips?

“I would say sleep is important. If you can try to sleep, that’s really important. I love saunas because I think they help you sleep. And, I think attitude is very important—come in with a positive attitude, and I always try to remember that sometimes the red carpet part of show business has nothing to do with acting. I always have to remind myself they’re different kinds of things, but just to try to enjoy that part of it, too, because it’s fun.”

After the red carpet, and after the show, what is your post ritual?

“Honestly, sometimes it’s hard to eat during the day because you’re so busy. I will probably go home and relax and eat dinner, order something. Kick off the shoes, take off the dress, take a nice bath, wash my face, pull out the extensions. You forget, it’s tiring! I think it would be no more talking—just quiet.”