Sally Field reveals how Jack Nicholson helped her overcome post-'The Flying Nun' career struggles and get Hollywood to see her differently.
- May 10, 2026
AceShowbiz - Sally Field, a two-time Oscar-winning actress, has long expressed her frustration with her breakout role in the 1960s sitcom The Flying Nun. In a recent interview with People, she revealed that her career faced significant challenges following the show’s end, but it was fellow Actors Studio alum Jack Nicholson who played a crucial role in helping her regain momentum.
After starring in ABC’s popular fantasy sitcom from 1967 to 1970, Sally Field recalled that she "couldn't get in a room to audition" and was often excluded from casting opportunities. She explained that industry professionals "thought they already knew what I was" and were not interested in casting her for other roles, effectively limiting her options.
Reflecting on that difficult period, Sally Field shared her mindset at the time: she realized that if she wanted to change her situation, she needed to improve her craft. She emphasized that although the entertainment business can often be "rotten" and "unfair," she believed it was her responsibility to alter her path rather than surrendering control to others.
Her determination to grow as an actress, combined with support from Jack Nicholson, helped her overcome the typecasting that followed The Flying Nun. This turning point eventually led to the resurgence of her career, paving the way for the acclaimed performances that earned her multiple Academy Awards.
This article is based on reporting originally published by Deadline.