Victoria Beckham Opens Up About Smiling Struggles in Netflix Docuseries

Former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham has shared the surprising reason behind her well-known stoic expression, revealing that her husband, David Beckham, played a significant role in shaping her public persona. In her self-titled docuseries on Netflix, Beckham explained her trademark pout and why she is rarely seen smiling in photographs.

In a candid moment, the 51-year-old fashion designer and singer disclosed that her position on the red carpet often dictated her facial expression. She stated, “Here’s a fact, I’ve looked miserable for all these years because when we stand on the red carpet, this guy has always [stood] on the left.” Beckham further explained that she smiles from the left side of her face, and when she angles herself to the right, her smile does not convey the same warmth. “So I’m smiling on the inside, but no one ever sees it—so that’s why I look so moody,” she added.

Struggles with Confidence and Public Perception

Beckham’s revelation sheds light on a deeper issue concerning her self-confidence, particularly after the disbandment of the Spice Girls in 2000. As she transitioned to a solo career, she faced challenges that affected her mental well-being. “I’d be lying if I said I was the best singer or dancer,” she admitted. The negative perceptions and criticisms she encountered took a toll on her psyche. “When people are mean and you’re hearing things and you’re seeing things, it really hurts. I became so self-conscious.”

This struggle with self-image extends beyond the red carpet. Beckham described how her demeanor changes in front of the camera, saying, “The minute I see a camera, I change. The barrier goes up, my armour goes on, and that’s when the miserable cow who doesn’t smile comes out.” She expressed a longing for the confidence to smile freely in social settings, stating, “I’d love to have the confidence to walk out of a restaurant and smile, but I just can’t do it.”

Addressing Past Challenges

David Beckham also noted the transformation in Victoria’s personality over the years, observing a decline in her confidence and bubbly nature. In addition to her struggles with public perception, Victoria opened up about her battle with an eating disorder, revealing that she had learned to hide her condition effectively. “When you have an eating disorder, you become very good at lying,” she said, reflecting on how she concealed her struggles from her parents.

Victoria explained that her eating disorder stemmed from an overwhelming desire to control how others perceived her during her rise to fame. “I could control it with the clothing, I could control it with my weight, and I was controlling it in an extremely unhealthy way,” she noted. Her journey highlights the often-hidden challenges faced by public figures, emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness.

Victoria Beckham’s docuseries is now available for streaming on Netflix, offering fans a more intimate look into her life and the complexities that have shaped her as both an artist and a person.