After years away from the red carpet, beloved Hollywood actress Meg Ryan has stepped back into the public eye—and her appearance is stirring both admiration and debate. Making a rare and elegant appearance at the 2025 Oscars, Ryan reminded fans of her iconic legacy while also igniting conversation about her recent look, leaving the internet split with praise, speculation, and nostalgia.

At 63, Meg Ryan remains a symbol of classic romantic comedy charm, known for unforgettable roles in When Harry Met Sally, You’ve Got Mail, and Sleepless in Seattle. But with her recent reemergence, fans are asking the question: how much has really changed?

A Stunning Oscars Comeback

Appearing at the Oscars for the first time in nearly three decades, Ryan took to the red carpet wearing a chic and sophisticated ensemble that combined timeless grace with modern flair. Instead of the minimal black outfit she wore at her last Oscars appearance, this time she embraced a rosy, feminine aesthetic. With softly flushed cheeks and a glossy berry lip, she radiated the kind of effortless beauty fans have long associated with her.

Her hair, styled in soft, romantic waves, echoed the iconic looks of the rom-com characters that defined her early career. From the first glimpse, it was clear that Ryan intended her comeback to reflect her signature charm—elevated with a touch of Hollywood glamour.

Video: Oscars 2025: Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal recreate cute moment from ‘When Harry Met Sally

Fans React: Praise, Nostalgia, and Criticism

Social media quickly exploded with reactions. Many fans applauded her timeless beauty and were thrilled to see her on such a major stage again. “She looks radiant and graceful. It’s great to see her back!” wrote one admirer. Others commented on her appearance, noting a shift that they found refreshing. “She definitely looks more natural now—less filler. She’s glowing!”

But the praise wasn’t universal. Some viewers expressed concern or confusion, noting changes in her appearance. “That’s not Meg Ryan!” one comment read. Others pointed out her walk during the ceremony, with some questioning if she was unwell. These remarks prompted speculation about her health and physical well-being.

Health Concerns Addressed

As fans debated the reasons behind her different appearance and noticeable limp, longtime followers pointed out a past interview in which Ryan herself discussed her ongoing hip issues. She revealed that she walks with a slight limp due to a condition that affects her mobility. That context helped shift the conversation, with many people expressing empathy and support instead of critique.

“She’s still beautiful and strong,” one fan wrote. “It’s unfair how much pressure is put on women in Hollywood to stay unchanged.”

Reuniting With Billy Crystal and Revisiting Her Legacy

Adding to the buzz was Ryan’s onstage reunion with Billy Crystal, her co-star from the classic 1989 film When Harry Met Sally. The duo shared the spotlight once again when Ryan presented the Best Picture award to Anora. The nostalgic moment thrilled fans, bringing back memories of one of cinema’s most beloved on-screen pairings.

This emotional highlight reminded audiences of the enormous impact Ryan had during the peak of her career and underscored how deeply embedded she remains in pop culture history.

A Spotlight on Aging in Hollywood

Video: Meg Ryan Addresses Rumors About Her Changing Face

Meg Ryan’s return is also reigniting a broader conversation about aging in the public eye. In an industry that often glorifies youth, women over 50, especially those who were once considered America’s sweethearts, face intense scrutiny. The reactions to Ryan’s appearance highlight the unrealistic standards placed on celebrities, particularly actresses, and the pressure to maintain a “timeless” image.

Yet, Ryan’s willingness to reappear, despite knowing the kind of attention and judgment it could invite, sends a powerful message about embracing oneself through all of life’s stages. Her return is not just a personal statement—it’s a moment of cultural relevance in the ongoing conversation around beauty, identity, and aging.

What’s Next for Meg Ryan?

After her recent appearance, fans are wondering whether this signals a larger return for Ryan to the spotlight. In recent years, she’s maintained a low profile, occasionally engaging with fans on social media and pursuing personal projects behind the scenes.

While she hasn’t officially announced any new films or television roles, her Oscars moment may mark the beginning of a new chapter—one that doesn’t necessarily mean a full return to Hollywood but suggests that she’s choosing how, when, and where to show up on her own terms.

Final Thoughts: A Return That Reflects Grace and Courage

Meg Ryan’s return to the public stage was more than just a red carpet moment. It was a reflection of strength, grace, and the complexities that come with fame, aging, and evolving under the spotlight. Whether admired or questioned, her presence sparked a wave of emotional responses—reminding everyone of the love and respect she still commands from millions.

While the internet may remain divided, one thing is clear: Meg Ryan is back, and she’s doing it her way.