Tori Spelling Reflects on Her Teen Years and Shares Her Journey to Self-Acceptance

Tori Spelling Graces iHeartRadio Music Awards Red Carpet, Embraces Confidence at 52

Actress Tori Spelling made a striking appearance at the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2026, showcasing her renewed confidence in a bold red Walter Mendez Atelier dress that featured a sheer corset and thigh-high slit.

Reflecting on her journey, Spelling noted, “I don’t know if a year ago I would’ve been ready for this dress. The last three years, there’s been a lot of change in my life.” She shared that her previous style had leaned towards more casual outfits, primarily sneakers and jeans.

“I’m feeling like I’m in my power era. Glamour was my jam back in the day — you can be 50 and glamorous,” she declared, playfully revealing her age into the microphone. “It’s not as comfortable, but damn, is it confident when you put that on. It’s like Cinderella.”

While Spelling is now feeling comfortable in her skin, she also addressed the criticism that has followed her since her teenage years. She recounted a painful memory from when she was 17, following a tabloid’s speculation about her appearance and alleged plastic surgeries. Although she confirmed having a nose job at 16, she described the backlash as heartbreaking, especially during her first year on Beverly Hills, 90210.

“I was a 17-year-old girl, first year of [‘Beverly Hills] 90210,’ last year of high school in real life,” she recalled. After reaching out to her father, Aaron Spelling, in tears, he reassured her that the public would move on in a week. Nevertheless, she noted that the focus on her looks has been “perpetuated” throughout her career.

Spelling acknowledged that the scrutiny has impacted her choices regarding cosmetic work. “I do less [cosmetic work] than anyone else because I’m so scared of what people will say — and they still say it!” she explained. Her candidness extended to her responses on social media, where she frequently addresses comments about her appearance.

“Every week, ‘Stop with the fillers.’ I’m like, ‘What fillers?’ Are you telling me that I look good if you think I’ve had [work done]?”

Despite her resilience, Spelling admitted that negative remarks can still sting. “I say I have thick skin — not filler skin — but we’re all human, it hurts,” she shared. “Just because you’re in the spotlight doesn’t mean you don’t have feelings.”