Jackson White, known for his role in “Tell Me Rise,” recently spoke about his mother, Katey Sagal, the “Married with Children” star, highlighting her resilience. He shared insights into her struggles with alcohol, noting how they impacted his upbringing.
Reflecting on his childhood, White mentioned his divorced parents and past experiences of drinking with his father. He acknowledged how anger and resentment shaped his relationships, but he realized this was a harmful path.
“My mother helped me,” he said on the show. “She showed me that you can pull yourself together after tough times. I really looked up to her as a role model. I have a lot of desires in life; I think we all do.”
White emphasized that nothing should deter you from pursuing your aspirations, whether they relate to family or career. “If you feel blocked from achieving those dreams, whether it’s missing opportunities or poor communication, you need to stay focused. Self-awareness is key,” he explained.
“The outcomes motivate us,” he continued, speaking with the host, Alexandra Cooper. “Without any consequences, things can stagnate indefinitely.”
Sagal played White’s mother on “Tell Me Rise,” and initially, he was hesitant to share the limelight with her, a sentiment many can relate to. “You know that childlike feeling of wanting everything to yourself? But ultimately, I realized it was a great opportunity,” he remarked.
White also collaborated with his real-life girlfriend, Grace Van Patten, in a complex drama that explored toxic relationships. He noted the challenge of separating their professional and personal lives.
“It’s crucial to keep them distinct, but I think the boundaries often blur,” he said. “You invest your emotions into your work, and at times, that can feel overwhelming.”
Sagal, now 72, gained fame for her role in “Married with Children” and later won a Golden Globe for her performance as Gemma Teller in “Sons of Anarchy.” She has since appeared in various successful series, including “8 Simple Rules,” “The Conners,” “Shameless,” and “Rebel.”
