logo
Hayley Mills | Hayley Mills | Source: Getty Images
Hayley Mills | Hayley Mills | Source: Getty Images

'Pollyanna' Star Hayley Mills Looks Happy on 77th Birthday – She Is a Doting Granny with Her 20-Years-Younger Partner

Bettina Dizon
Apr 24, 2023
08:45 A.M.
Share this pen
FacebookFacebookTwitterTwitterLinkedInLinkedInEmailEmail
  • Hayley Mills, with her gray hair, recently marked her 77th birthday.
  • Best known for her roles in "Pollyanna" and "Summer Magic," Mills now enjoys a quiet life as a devoted grandmother.
  • Her partner, who is 20 years her junior, has been supportive during a private illness she experienced.
Advertisement

Hayley Mills, a British actress, gained recognition at an early age after starring in the highly acclaimed 1960 film "Pollyanna." In 1961, Mills further showcased her talent in "The Parent Trap," captivating audiences once more.

However, as she entered her teenage years, the actress began to fear for the longevity of her career, recognizing that her fame relied on her youthful image.

Hayley Mills in "Summer Magic,"in 1963  | Source: Getty Images

Hayley Mills in "Summer Magic,"in 1963 | Source: Getty Images

This uncertainty about her future and the pressures of growing up in the public eye contributed to her development of bulimia, a struggle that persisted for many years.

In her 2021 memoir, "Forever Young," Mills candidly shares her experiences growing up in Hollywood, including her relationship with Walt Disney, who served as a parental figure.

Hayley Mills in "Pollyanna," in 1960 | Source: Getty Images

Hayley Mills in "Pollyanna," in 1960 | Source: Getty Images

Advertisement

Throughout her career, she earned a substantial income, but by the time she gained access to her accounts, the British government had seized 91% of her earnings as tax in the aftermath of World War II. She mused:

"I never saw it. I knew it was there and one day I would have it, but it was just sort of a dream, and then one day the dream was gone."

Hayley Mills circa 1965 | Source: Getty Images

Hayley Mills circa 1965 | Source: Getty Images

Advertisement

Continuing to work in film and on stage, Mills overcame the challenges of being an aging child star. She built a family with her partner, Firduos Bamji, who is 22 years younger than her. Today, at 56, the actress balances her career with her role as a doting grandmother.

Hayley Mills, circa 1960 | Source: Getty Images

Hayley Mills, circa 1960 | Source: Getty Images

Advertisement

At 77, Hayley Mills Prioritizes Grandkids Following Challenging Motherhood Experiences

Hayley Mills, who has built a life with her partner Firduos Bamji, experienced several ups and downs in her dating history. She was previously married to film producer Ray Boulting, with whom she shares a son, Crispian Mills.

The actress was also involved with actor Leigh Lawson, and the couple had a son named Jason Lawson.

Hayley Mills on July 15, 1986 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Hayley Mills on July 15, 1986 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Advertisement

As her children grew up, Mills focused on her career, and in retrospect, she has expressed regret for not spending more time with them. She advises others to prioritize family over work when faced with a choice, sharing her personal experience:

"If there's ever any doubt about taking a job or spending time with your children — do the latter. Looking back now — I didn't. I spent too much time away. They've survived, and they're both wonderful men who I'm incredibly proud of, but they didn't have an easy time."

 Hayley Mills and Jason Lawson on March 17, 2011 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Hayley Mills and Jason Lawson on March 17, 2011 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Advertisement

Having turned 77 on April 18, Mills is grateful for the opportunity to spend her golden years with her family. She admits to being a better grandmother than she was a mother, embracing her second chance with her grandchildren. She said, "I'm a much better grandmother than I was as a mother."

Mills has three grandsons and welcomed her first granddaughter in 2018. The actress finds joy in seeing a part of her children in these new family members.

Hayley Mills and Family on October 03, 2021 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

Hayley Mills and Family on October 03, 2021 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

Advertisement

Similar to Ricki Lake, Mills proudly sports her natural gray hair. She celebrated her birthday surrounded by loved ones and shared a glimpse of the festivities with her fans. Mills posted a photo of herself waving to the camera on Instagram, thanking everyone for their kind birthday wishes:

"Thank you all so much for your sweet and thoughtful birthday wishes! Much love, Hayley xx ❤️."

Hayley Mills' journey highlights the importance of balancing family and career, as well as the value of learning from past experiences. Her candid reflections offer insight into her personal growth and the significance of cherishing time with loved ones.

Advertisement

Her Partner, 20 Years Younger, Provided Support during Her Battle with Cancer

In 2008, actress Hayley Mills was diagnosed with breast cancer on her 62nd birthday while spending a peaceful day by the Hudson River. The diagnosis came as a surprise, as she had recently undergone a routine checkup without any concerns.

 Firdous Bamji and Hayley Mills on September 29, 2015 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

Firdous Bamji and Hayley Mills on September 29, 2015 in London, England | Source: Getty Images

Advertisement

The unexpected news interrupted her tranquil day, and a team of doctors conducted several tests to determine the extent of the cancer. It was discovered that it had affected both of her breasts, leading to immediate surgery.

Mills decided to keep her diagnosis private to avoid a media frenzy and focus on her health. She informed only her immediate family and long-time partner, Firduos Bamji, who were all extremely supportive of her decisions.

The actress later opened up about her treatments, expressing her dislike for chemotherapy, which made her feel gravely ill. She said, "I could feel it draining me and killing me. I felt I was dying." Instead, Mills chose alternative treatments.

Advertisement
Advertisement

While acknowledging that her chosen path might not be suitable for everyone, Mills was content with the results. Following a challenging battle, she was declared cancer-free, similar to actress Jaclyn Smith. She emphasized that her fight would have been much more difficult without the support of her family and Bamji.

Mills and Bamji first met while working together on "The King and I" and began their relationship in 1997. They have been together for over two decades, attributing the longevity of their partnership to "respect, being able to fight and get over it. We don't take each other for granted!"

Hayley Mills' experience highlights the importance of support and understanding when facing a severe health issue like cancer. By sharing her story, she offers insight into the challenges she faced and the choices she made during her battle, emphasizing the significance of a strong support system in overcoming such obstacles.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Related posts

'My Goodness!': Grandma Marlo Thomas Amazes with Her Body at 85 & Said 'Nothing' Slows Her Down

April 21, 2023

Marcia from ‘The Brady Bunch’ Is ‘Still a Stunner’ at 66 — She Met Spouse in Church & Didn’t Hide 'Monsters' from Him

April 18, 2023

Rarely-Seen Sophia Loren Stuns with Her Beauty at 88 — She Has the 'Most Beautiful' Grandkids with Carlo Ponti

April 18, 2023

Ricky Nelson's Daughter Stuns at 59 & Shows Off Her Kids Years after She Dreamed Dad Asked Her to See a Doctor

April 12, 2023

'I Thought It Was Grandma': Hugh Jackman’s Wife Blasted on Their Beach Pics Yet He Loves Her 'With All My Heart'

April 21, 2023

Son of 'Superman's Christopher Reeve Beams with Girlfriend in 1st Couple Pic after Orphaned Life since 13

April 19, 2023

Mom Rebel Wilson Is 'Gaining Weight' - She Was Asked Not to Trust Fiancée Who Is 'Using' Her after Engagement

April 12, 2023

Jan From ‘The Brady Bunch’ Is 'Phenomenal' With Pixie Cut at 64 & Loves Spouse Who Set Rule Before Proposal

April 12, 2023

Ron Howard's Daughter Beams with Husband of 16 Years on Date - They Learned She Was 12 Weeks Pregnant by Accident

April 20, 2023

Michael Landon’s Gay Son Shows Lookalike Kids After ‘Painful’ Childhood & Losing Dad at 16

April 12, 2023

‘She’s Definitely Struggling’: Suzanne Somers Looks ‘Lifeless’ at 76 as Fans Worry about Her Health

April 21, 2023

Bailey from 'WKRP in Cincinnati' Stuns at 73 despite Wrinkles — She Left Career for Daughter Who Calls James Brolin 'Daddy'

April 14, 2023

'Very Sad': Sandra Bullock Blasted for Being 'Barely Recognizable' Yet Partner Accepts Her the Way She Is

April 07, 2023

Rod Stewart's Wife Taunted after Gaining Weight & Wearing Bikini Yet He Said She's 'Most Gorgeous Woman Ever'

April 13, 2023

logo

WomanlyLive participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.

Facebook
© 2023 AmoMama Media Limited