The year was was 1974, andSally Fieldwas at a crossroads.

When I was 28, it was the beginning of my transition into film.

Nowadays, there is no transition.

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Theyve learned that people who are successful in [TV] can be successful [movies].

But in those days, if you were were in situation comedy, you died in situation comedy.

By her 30s, Field had definitively left situation comedy behind.

Sally Field during “International Broadcasting Awards” at Century Plaza Hotel in New York City, New …

Then you might feel it.

All of a sudden, Oh my God, theyre interested!

Take me back to 1974, when you were 28.

Sally Field in ‘The Flying Nun.'

I had two little boys and I wasnt married.

That was basically my life, trying to take care of these two boys and be the breadwinner.

How were you feeling about your life and career?

Everyone was running around naked, eating granola, and doing God knows what, but they were protesting.

They were aware of the world.

They didnt want to be part of the establishment.

The world was changing because my generation was screaming and pushing at it.

But I was stuck doingTheFlying Nun.I was a joke.

I was so depressed and actually had one episode where I just couldnt go on.

She said, Theres an address there.

Its The Actors Studio.

This Tuesday night, 8 oclock, be there.

I metLee Strasbergand I began my work with him.

That went on pretty consistently for almost 10 years.

What was it about The Actors Studio that made such a colossal impact on you?

TheFlying Nunhad stopped, and I couldnt even get an audition.

So during that time, I studied with Lee relentlessly, and slowly something started to break down.

I said, You know what?

Ive done one audition in my life before this, and that was forGidget.

I had to constantly take that disregard, but thats OK.

I hadnt earned the right to own a spot.

I wasnt in yet.

If someones screaming about you in the other room, how do you stay confident and persevere?

What advice would you give to a 28-year-old in a similar situation?

But it really is about the work.

And if theyre hiring you for something other than the work, you dont want to be there.

Do you have any regrets from being 28?

I wish I could have known my father.

So, I forgive myself.

Hells bells, I wish Id learned how to play the piano, too, or speak French.

But I can tell you this, I love the fact that one of my granddaughters speaks fluent French.

Im living through her.

I love the fact that my oldest grandson is now phenomenal on the piano.

I go, Oh, my God, I feel like its happening to me!

Has there been a moment in your life or career where you felt like youve made it?

But ultimately [being there for them] feels like achievement to me.

This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

This article was originally published onDec.