US actress Selma Blair has disclosed that she has multiple sclerosis (MS), sharing the news in an Instagram post. The 46-year-old, known for her role in Cruel Intentions, said she was diagnosed in August but has experienced symptoms for years.
“I am disabled. I fall sometimes. I drop things,” she wrote, describing the diagnosis as “overwhelming in the beginning”. Blair is set to appear in Netflix’s Another Life and said the support from costume designer Allisa Swanson inspired her to speak out.
Multiple sclerosis is an incurable condition affecting the brain or spinal cord, causing issues with vision, balance, and muscle control. The NHS notes it is two to three times more common in women and typically diagnosed in people in their 20s and 30s.
Blair expressed relief at finally receiving a diagnosis, writing: “My memory is foggy. And my left side is asking for directions from a broken GPS. But we are doing it.” She added: “I want to play with my son again. I want to walk down the street and ride my horse. I have MS and I am ok.”
Social media users, including those with MS, offered support. Journalist Victoria Brownworth thanked Blair for helping to demystify the condition, while actress Rose McGowan called her a “stellar being”. Others shared their own experiences, with many saying Blair’s openness encouraged them to speak out.
