In her new memoir You With the Sad Eyes, actress Christina Applegate shares that she harbored a deep childhood crush on Johnny Depp during her teenage years. The book, recently released, combines personal journal entries from her youth with reflections on her life, including her 2021 multiple sclerosis diagnosis. Applegate’s candid writings spotlight Depp as a recurring figure of affection during her adolescence.
Insight into Applegate’s Teenage Journals and Early Hollywood Connections
Applegate reveals that the detailed journals she kept from age 13 carried many mentions of Depp, capturing her evolving feelings. At 15, she describes being “madly in love” with him and recalls working on the 1987 TV series 21 Jump Street, where Depp had a starring role. Depp, now 62, was part of a close social circle she grew up with, which also included her longtime friend Sam Sarkar. Applegate’s memoir acknowledges the complexity of her youthful emotions toward Depp, as her journals reflect the ups and downs of her infatuation.
Memorable Journal Entries Highlight Emotional Turmoil and Connection
One of the entries included in the book illustrates her fascination with Depp:
“I’ve been having really strange dreams about Johnny of all people. I can’t really analyze them because I don’t remember what they are once I wake up. I can only remember who’s in them … Johnny.”
She adds,
“I can’t sit here and wish he was something that he’s not. I can’t change him. But yet I wish I could get through to him.”
These words express a mixture of longing and acceptance during adolescence.
Recollections of Time Spent with Depp During Filming and Friendship
Applegate recalls that Depp would invite her to visit Vancouver while filming 21 Jump Street, noting,
“There are lots of entries about my trips to Canada in my journals; mostly, I loved it up there with the guys.”
This glimpse reveals the warmth of their youthful friendship and the environment surrounding their early Hollywood experiences.
Applegate’s Broader Life Experiences and Advocacy
Beyond her reflections on Depp, Applegate has shared her journey living with MS through various platforms. Alongside friend and fellow actress Jamie-Lynn Sigler, she hosts the podcast MeSsy and is launching Next in MS, an online community for people affected by the disease to share their stories. Her memoir and public work aim to raise awareness and offer support to others facing similar challenges.
The Release and Wider Impact of You With the Sad Eyes
You With the Sad Eyes is available now at all major booksellers, offering readers an intimate view into Applegate’s life, early Hollywood connections, and her resilience. Her detailed accounts, especially of her childhood crush on Johnny Depp, enrich her narrative and invite reflection on the complexities of youthful emotions intertwined with stardom.
