
Call Her Daddy
"Everyone has their scent. And the notes in the scent help me kind of figure out personality type. So if she's soft, tough, strong, vulnerable, you know she smells a certain way." — Priyanka Chopra Jonas
"I think circumstances or your environment can dictate how you feel. They can contribute to it. And it's up to you to decide how much you're taking in and how much you're leaving out." — Priyanka Chopra Jonas
"We have to break actually the narratives that we set up of, you know, a long time ago, what beauty is. We have to have healthy conversation about the female body, the male body and aging and the reality of that." — Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Priyanka Chopra Jonas shared insights into her upbringing, which was characterized by frequent moves due to her parents' military doctor careers. This nomadic lifestyle, initially met with childhood distress, was reframed by her father as an opportunity for reinvention and adventure, fostering a sense of resilience and a lack of material attachment. She recalled the cultural shock of moving from India to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, during her high school years, noting the vast differences in school size and social dynamics compared to her experiences in India.
The conversation delved into the profound impact of bullying, particularly racial slurs, experienced during her high school years. Chopra Jonas described how these experiences made her feel inferior and dim her shine, but her parents' encouragement of confidence helped her navigate these challenges. She detailed her return to India, which unexpectedly kickstarted her career, leading to her winning Miss World at 18. This period was marked by a strong sense of self-invention and a proactive approach to shaping her identity and career path.
Chopra Jonas also discussed navigating the complexities of Hollywood, including societal pressures related to beauty standards and body image, and the scrutiny that comes with a public career. She recounted a distressing experience with a nose reconstruction surgery that impacted her early career, leading to lost roles. Her parents' unwavering support and emphasis on her education provided a fallback, ultimately allowing her to persevere and rebuild her career. The discussion highlighted the importance of self-reliance, the power of community, and the necessity of open communication in relationships. She emphasized that while she has a strong sense of self-management for her emotional well-being, seeking external support, like therapy, could be beneficial.