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Jennette McCurdy, the protagonist and narrator of I’m Glad My Mom Died, starts out as an isolated, homeschooled child whose relationship with her domineering mother forms the center of her existence. Since she has no peers, Jennette looks to Mom not just for parental guidance but also for friendship and company. Ever since Mom’s bout with cancer turned her into a compulsive hoarder, their home has been an uncomfortable place for Jennette, both literally and psychologically. Her dislike of being at home leads her to depend on their sporadic visits to church for a sense of tranquility and comfort in her life. One of the most striking aspects of Jennette’s character is her deep-seated need for approval and validation, particularly from Mom, who controls every aspect of her life, even showering Jennette until the age of 16. When Jennette agrees to pursue a career in acting, she only does so to appease Mom. Jennette’s driving inner need for approval leads to inevitable self-esteem issues as she enters an industry characterized by judgment and rejection.

Despite her outward success as a child actor, Jennette’s inner turmoil is palpable. She grapples with feelings of guilt, shame, and inadequacy, often turning to destructive behaviors such as anorexia, bulimia, and alcohol abuse as coping mechanisms. Mom has coached her to feel disgusted by her body’s transition from childhood to womanhood, and she is as uncomfortable with her own sexuality as she is with her growing curves. Her struggles with body image and self-esteem stem directly from Mom’s influence, but they also reflect the damaging effects of the unrealistic standards imposed on young women in the entertainment industry. Jennette is all too aware of her face and body as marketable assets, and she resorts to eating disorders not just to please Mom but also to remain bankable.

As the memoir progresses, Jennette undergoes a significant transformation. This transformation is not passive. It is an active process fueled by introspection and professional guidance. Mom’s illness and death mark the beginning of Jennette’s gradual healing process as she allows herself to recognize that Mom was an abusive figure rather than a loving parent . Although Mom’s death doesn’t immediately end Jennette’s approval-seeking behaviors, she begins to confront her painful memories and reassess her past. Her journey from blind admiration to critical evaluation is a testament to the complexity of human relationships. Through therapy and self-reflection, she begins to assert her independence and reclaim control over her life. Her decision to leave acting and pursue a healthier, more fulfilling path demonstrates her resilience and courage in the face of adversity. This decision also symbolizes her refusal to be defined solely by external validation. Overall, Jennette McCurdy is a flawed yet relatable figure whose journey towards self-acceptance and healing serves as a testament to the possibility of overcoming even the most challenging circumstances.

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