Allison Janney, 66, has opened up about her feelings of regret regarding never having children, revealing that she learned it was too late to conceive when she visited a fertility specialist in her forties. The West Wing star made the confession on the podcast "Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky."
Janney explained that at the time she was in her forties, she had believed women could have children until around age 50. Upon visiting a specialist, she was informed that "the odds are not in your favor." The doctor also inquired about a partner, which Janney felt was "a sign" as the man she was with did not accompany her to the appointment.
Medical professionals define pregnancy at age 35 or older as being at advanced maternal age. Fertility levels and egg quality typically decline after this point, and the risks associated with pregnancy and childbirth increase, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Reflections on Marriage and Loneliness
Janney, who has never married, also discussed feelings of loneliness within relationships, even when with a partner. "I always thought I would get married just because at the time I was growing up that's what you did," she stated. She described the feeling of being in a relationship that she knew was not right and being unable to leave as "the most lonely feeling in the world."
Throughout her life, Janney has been romantically linked to three men. She was with computer programmer Dennis Gagomiros from 1994 to 2001. Following that, she was engaged to her "Our Very Own" co-star Richard Jenik, but they ended their relationship in 2006. More recently, she dated production manager Philip Joncas from 2012 to 2017.
Current Projects and Companionship
Despite not having children, Janney expressed a deep love for dogs, stating, "I could not love dogs more." She shared a desire to own a farm with at least 10 rescue dogs.
Professionally, Janney is preparing for a role in the Broadway revival of "Other Desert Cities," alongside Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Ed Harris, Joe Keery, and Lily Rabe. Previews for the play are set to begin on September 29 at the Hudson Theatre in New York City. She is also slated to appear in Ridley Scott's upcoming sci-fi film "The Dog Stars," scheduled for release on August 28, which also features Jacob Elordi, Margaret Qualley, and Josh Brolin. Janney will also reprise her role as the American president in the new season of Netflix's "The Diplomat."