It is a great power to be able to steal someone’s attention by just appearing on a screen. Academy Award winners, eccentrics, bombshells — each, and every shade in between, have for decades captivated millions with their sheer presence. For nearly two decades, Esquire has asked these women — women with first names that can stand alone — Helen, Sigourney, Pam, Jodie, and Mia — for their wisdom. Below, we’ve collected their best insights.

“We’re all idiots when we’re young. We don’t think we are, but we are. So we should be.” — Helen Mirren

“All the good people are nuts.” — Carrie Fisher

“That whole generation that’s gone now, that lived through the two world wars, is a great example to all of us. They knew how to live. If something bad happened, they didn’t sit at home, eat Häagen-Dazs, and watch a movie. They got dressed up, went out, caroused, and danced their feet off.” — Sigourney Weaver

“The first time I went to therapy, I had to stop going because they were making me hate my parents.” — Chloë Sevigny

“Sex is emotional. It’s connection; it’s intimate. It’s looking into somebody’s soul. It’s naked in every sense of the word. It’s the hardest thing in the world.” — Faye Dunaway

“Someone who expects to be impressive doesn’t impress me.” — Lynda Carter

“Eventually you just have to realize that you’re living for an audience of one. I’m not here for anyone else’s approval.” — Pamela Anderson

“Sex appeal is not on purpose.” — Heather Locklear

“The hardest thing about life in your forties is that it’s heavy. You have to take responsibility for it, because you made it heavy. You’re the one who wanted to have children. You’re the one who wanted to have a big job. You’re the one who wanted to have more than one house. You’re the one, and you have to take responsibility for those choices. I wouldn’t do it any differently, but part of me will always miss being light.” — Jodie Foster

“Find things that shine and move toward them.” — Mia Farrow

For more wisdom and life lessons from world leaders, cultural icons, and athletes, head to Esquire.com.