Being a true badass means embodying a blend of qualities that may seem contradictory but harmonize seamlessly.

Despite her aversion to violence and horror movies, Jamie Lee Curtis has made a name for herself in these genres.

Surprisingly, she admits to being easily frightened and even sheds tears at commercials, showcasing a softer side beneath her tough exterior.

Known for her portrayal of Laurie Strode in the Halloween series, Curtis’s character is hailed as one of the quintessential badass heroines in horror cinema.

Laurie is a mix of dreams and innocence, forced into a battle for survival due to terrifying circumstances.

After 43 years of intermittently playing this role, Curtis reveals that elements of the original character’s kind nature still shine through, albeit transformed as she now fights for her daughter and granddaughter.

Her fierce protective instincts mirror her real-life persona – mess with her, and she’ll go into warrior mode for her loved ones.

Reflecting on her career, Curtis highlights a standout moment during the filming of True Lies.

In a scene where her character, Helen Tasker, awkwardly performs a striptease for her husband, Curtis felt an unparalleled sense of empowerment.

Despite minimal preparation and no choreography, she immersed herself in the moment, dancing to the tune of John Hiatt’s “Alone in the Dark.”

The silence that followed her performance underscored its impact, with Curtis crediting the raw intensity to the synergy between herself, the music, three cameras, and a sizable crew.

During the striptease sequence, Curtis recalls a humorous interaction with director James Cameron, who jokingly nudged her to release her grip on the bedpost when things veered a bit too seductive.

This lighthearted exchange served as a reminder that the scene, though daring, was meant to evoke laughter, emphasizing the film’s comedic undertones.

For Curtis, it remains a cherished memory, capturing a rare moment of unfiltered joy in her professional journey.

Navigating the pitfalls of show business, Curtis emphasizes the importance of staying grounded, avoiding ego traps, and embracing diverse opportunities.

From major film projects to quirky commercial gigs, she has embraced every challenge that came her way, unfazed by critics who questioned her choices.

Her philosophy of seizing the moment and staying open to new experiences has propelled her forward, leading to a flourishing career even decades into the industry.

As Curtis embraces a new chapter in her life, she lives by the motto, “If not now, when?

If not me, who?”

This mantra inspires her daily, propelling her to seize each opportunity with vigor.

With over four decades in Hollywood, she finds herself busier than ever, with her latest project, Everything Everywhere All at Once, set for release on March 25.

For more captivating stories, grab a copy of the February 2022 edition of InStyle, hitting newsstands, Amazon, and digital platforms on January 14th.