Christina Applegate reveals her unusual coping mechanism on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live'. ABC
Christina Applegate has discovered an unexpectedly effective way to manage her multiple sclerosis symptoms: giving her body parts celebrity names and treating them like quirky roommates. In a hilarious and surprisingly therapeutic revelation on Jimmy Kimmel Live, the actress shared how this bizarre strategy helps her cope with the neurological condition.
"Meet Barbara and Stanley," Applegate announced, introducing her right and left hands. "Barbara's married to Stanley, but she's gay and lives with a close friend. Stanley knows and adores her—they're doing just fine!" The audience erupted as she explained this unconventional domestic arrangement between her own limbs.
But the real showstopper came when she revealed her knees' identities. "This is Meghan Markle," she said, pointing to her right knee. "And this is Tootie," she added about her left, named after Kim Fields' character from Facts of Life. "When they act up, I tell them, 'Meghan, thank you! Tootie, cut it out!' It actually helps interrupt the symptoms."
Christina Applegate at the 28th Annual Critics Choice Awards in 2023. Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty
Kimmel pressed her about Meghan Markle's potential reaction to having a knee named after her. "She might get upset," Applegate admitted with a laugh. "But it's not insulting! It's more like, 'Meghan, can you lend a hand here!' If she minds, that's her issue. I couldn't care less."
What makes this story viral-worthy isn't just the humor—it's the genuine therapeutic benefit. Applegate explained that personifying her body parts creates a psychological interruption that helps manage MS symptoms. "Since it's a neurological condition, this strange method actually works," she confirmed. "No one suggested it—I'm just absolutely brilliant."
The clip has sparked conversations about unconventional coping mechanisms and mental health strategies. Viewers are both laughing at the absurdity and marveling at the creativity of turning a serious health challenge into something manageable through humor and imagination.
Watch the full segment above to see Applegate's hilarious and heartwarming approach to living with MS—and decide what you'd name your own body parts!
