Christina Applegate Shares the Honest and Funny Names She Calls Her Body Parts

Christina Applegate is still finding ways to laugh through some very hard days, and she recently shared one of the tools that helps her get through life with multiple sclerosis. In a new late-night appearance, the actress opened up about how humor plays a role in coping when her body does not do what she wants it to do.

While appearing on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Applegate explained that she has given names to different parts of her body. She said the habit started as a way to stay positive during moments when her symptoms became overwhelming. According to her, the nicknames help her separate herself from the frustration and keep things lighter.

She told the audience that the names are meant lovingly, even when they sound a little strange. She said, “They’re pretty funny, and they’re not meant to be disrespectful”, adding that joking about it makes everything feel a little less heavy.

Applegate began by talking about her hands. She shared that her right hand is named Barbara and her left hand is named Stanley. She joked that the two are married, even though Barbara mostly lives her own life. Laughing through the explanation, she added that the situation works for them and that Stanley stays loyal no matter what.

The conversation then moved to her legs, where the humor continued. Applegate revealed that her right knee goes by the name Meghan Markle. She explained that the name comes from a place of respect, and when the knee works properly, she often thanks it out loud. Her left knee has a very different name. She calls it Tootie, inspired by Kim Fields’ character from The Facts of Life.

She also admitted that she regularly talks to her body parts, especially on bad days. When symptoms flare up, she said she will argue with them and demand that they stop. She explained that since multiple sclerosis is a brain disorder, sometimes talking back actually helps interrupt the sensation.

When Kimmel asked if Meghan Markle might be upset by the nickname, Applegate laughed and said, “I think she’s probably gonna be mad about that”. Even so, she stood by her choice, saying it comes from a place of need, not mockery. She wrapped up the topic with her usual blunt humor, saying she does not really care if anyone takes offense.

Outside of late-night TV, Applegate continues to be open about her health through her podcast MeSsy. She co-hosts the show with Jamie-Lynn Sigler, who also lives with MS. The podcast focuses on honest conversations about chronic illness, daily struggles, and finding moments of joy despite limitations. The show has built a strong following for its raw and relatable tone.

Acting-wise, Applegate has stepped back from physically demanding roles after finishing Dead to Me, which she has described as the perfect way to close that chapter of her career. She remains involved in the industry through voice work, producing, and advocacy, while continuing to speak openly about disability and life after diagnosis.

Her approach has resonated with many people who see themselves reflected in her honesty and humor. By naming her body parts and laughing through the frustration, Applegate shows that even in difficult circumstances, finding small moments of light can make a real difference.

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