The ‘Pigeon Lady’ From ‘Home Alone’ Looks Unrecognizable Years After The Holiday Film

Brenda Fricker was 47 when she appeared on Home Alone 2: Lost In New York in 1992. The Irish actress played the role of “pigeon lady,” a homeless woman in New York City’s Central Park surrounded by a flock of birds. Now 78, fans are surprised by her appearance after three decades.

Brenda has been away from the spotlight and battled depression following her work in the Christmas classic. She was a guest on The Tommy Tiernan Show in January 2021, where she discussed her career, personal life, and mental health.

What happened to Brenda Fricker?

Brenda revealed that she lives “a very quiet life well under the radar.” “I drive a tiny car, own a cottage, that’s about it,” she said. “Nothing different than anybody else does, except being alone so much can make you talk to the wall a bit more than most people.”

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She also shared how she spent Christmas “home alone” in 2020 on Ray Darcy’s Radio 1 show. “I’m 75 now, and I would be lying if I said it would be a nice and happy Christmas because I’m one of those people. I am old, and I live alone, and it can be very dark,” she said. “The bells are ringing, and there is no one to turn around to and hug and smile, and I can’t get away from the bells; there are churches everywhere.”

Brenda Fricker reveals her battle with depression and getting help

Brenda also confessed to struggling with depression, which makes it difficult for her to go out. “Only yesterday, I went to the doctor, and he said, ‘We’re going to put you on stronger antidepressants.’ Because I am a bit of a recluse,” she explained to Irish comedian Tommy Tiernan.

Brenda also thanked her “wonderful doctor,” Anthony Clare, for helping her “feel good” at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Dublin. “It was very difficult…he saved my life. He really got me out of the mire. Just wonderful, just a wonderful brain, just knowing you and just getting to you. I just walked out happy when I was in his company,” she gushed.