Erin Moriarty, best known for her role as Starlight in the hit series *The Boys*, recently revealed that she has been diagnosed with Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid. The 30-year-old actress took to Instagram on June 14 to share her journey and encourage others to prioritize their health.
In her candid post, Moriarty explained that autoimmune diseases manifest differently in everyone. She urged her followers not to dismiss their symptoms, stating, “If I hadn’t chalked it all up to stress and fatigue, I would’ve caught this sooner.” Her message resonates with many, as she emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention when experiencing unusual health issues.
Graves’ disease causes the thyroid to produce an excess of thyroid hormones, leading to a range of symptoms including irritability, mood swings, rapid weight loss, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. According to the Mayo Clinic, this condition is more common in women and typically affects individuals over the age of 30. Moriarty’s experience highlights the need for awareness around such health concerns.
Since beginning treatment a month ago, Moriarty has reported significant improvements in her condition. “Within 24 hours of beginning treatment, I felt the light coming back on,” she shared. Her message to those who may be struggling with similar symptoms is clear: “If yours is dimming, even slightly, go get checked. Don’t ‘suck it up’ and transcend suffering; you deserve to be comfy. S***’s hard enough as is.”
In her post, Moriarty included text messages exchanged with her family during her struggle with the disease. One particularly poignant message to her mother expressed her desperation for relief: “I feel nauseated tonight. I feel so s*** and removed from who I am, I can’t live like this forever.” This raw honesty about her struggles has resonated deeply with fans and followers.
On a brighter note, Moriarty shared another message sent to her father after starting treatment, where she expressed her newfound sense of well-being: “I already feel a world of a difference, primary thought (as of now): ‘Damn, this is how I’m supposed to feel? I’ve been missing out.’” This contrast between her struggles and her recovery highlights the importance of addressing health issues head-on.
The response to Moriarty’s announcement has been overwhelmingly supportive. Co-stars from *The Boys*, including Susan Heyward and Nesta Cooper, sent their well-wishes and encouragement through social media, further emphasizing the strong sense of community within the cast.
Moriarty’s journey into the spotlight began with her breakout role in the 2016 film *Captain Fantastic*, which earned her a Screen Actors Guild Award nomination. She continued to gain recognition with her role as Hope Shlottman in *Jessica Jones* and starred alongside Jason Sudeikis in the 2018 film *Driven*. However, it is her portrayal of Starlight in *The Boys* that has solidified her status as a prominent figure in Hollywood.
As *The Boys* gears up for its fifth and final season, slated to premiere in 2026, fans can look forward to seeing more of Moriarty’s compelling performance. The show’s creator, Eric Kripke, has been vocal about his support for Moriarty, particularly in light of the online harassment she has faced from a segment of the fandom. He has consistently defended her, urging trolls to “f*** off” and stand behind the actress as she navigates both her professional and personal challenges.
Moriarty’s openness about her health struggles serves as a reminder of the importance of mental and physical well-being, especially in the demanding world of Hollywood. By sharing her story, she not only raises awareness about Graves’ disease but also encourages her fans to prioritize their health and seek help when needed.
In a world where celebrities often face immense pressure to maintain a perfect image, Moriarty’s vulnerability is refreshing and inspiring. Her journey underscores the reality that even those in the spotlight are human and face their own battles.
As fans continue to rally around her, Erin Moriarty’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, the importance of self-care, and the strength found in vulnerability. Whether through her performances on screen or her candid discussions about health, Moriarty is making a significant impact, reminding us all to take care of ourselves and each other.
