At 85, Jane Fonda isn’t slowing down.In fact, she’s more in demand than ever.

Recently, Fonda shared with PEOPLE in an exclusive interview that not only has she triumphed over cancer—now in remission—but she also feels more alive than ever, attributing her vitality to living a life of authenticity and purpose.

This incredible journey of resilience, activism, and reinvention has made Fonda one of the most influential figures in Hollywood and beyond, and it’s clear that the world still can’t get enough of her.

While many might attribute Fonda’s youthful energy and spirit to genetics or a strict fitness routine, the actress and activist believes the true secret lies in living authentically.

Throughout her career and personal life, Fonda has consistently spoken her truth, whether it was about her experiences with beauty standards, her mental health struggles, or her relentless advocacy for climate justice.

In the PEOPLE interview, Fonda emphasized that authenticity has been her key to staying energized and engaged in the world.

“I’ve found that the older I get, the more I realize how important it is to live a life of authenticity,” Fonda shared.

“The world can sometimes feel so artificial, but when you can embrace who you are, flaws and all, that’s when you really feel like you’re living fully.”

Her openness about her struggles and triumphs—especially her recent battle with cancer—has not only empowered her but also inspired a legion of fans.

After facing a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Fonda has been in remission and continues to encourage others with her personal story of survival and strength.

One of the highlights of Fonda’s recent career has been the long-awaited reunion with her close friends and fellow acting icons Candice Bergen, Mary Steenburgen, and Diane Keaton for Book Club: The Next Chapter.

The sequel to the hit 2018 comedy Book Club sees these four talented women once again lighting up the screen as a group of friends who come together to experience life’s ups and downs with humor, heart, and friendship.

For Fonda, this reunion was more than just a professional opportunity—it was a “dream come true.

” The actress fondly recalled the joy of reuniting with her friends on set, sharing that their strong bond has only deepened over the years.

“I’ve been blessed to work with some of the best, but there’s something truly special about the friendship we share,” Fonda said.

“We’ve been through so much together, and getting to do this again with Candice, Mary, and Diane was a gift. It felt like we were picking up right where we left off.”

The film not only marks a joyful return to the big screen for Fonda and her co-stars but also highlights the enduring strength of female friendships—a theme that resonates deeply with the actress.

As much as Fonda continues to captivate audiences with her acting, it’s her activism that has shaped her legacy.

For decades, she has been at the forefront of the fight against climate change, tirelessly using her platform to raise awareness and push for meaningful action.

In the PEOPLE interview, Fonda reaffirmed that tackling the climate crisis remains her main focus.

“I’ve always believed that the most important thing we can do is fight for the planet,” Fonda said.

“The climate crisis is real, and it’s only getting worse.

We need to act now, and we need to do it together.”

Fonda’s commitment to environmental justice has led her to lead numerous initiatives, including Fire Drill Fridays, a weekly climate protest aimed at pressuring politicians to take stronger action on climate change.

Despite the challenges and setbacks, Fonda remains determined to continue her work in this space, stating, “It’s the fight of our lifetime, and I won’t stop until we make a real difference.”

Looking back on her iconic career, Fonda reflected on the lessons she’s learned over the years.

For young actors and anyone navigating a career in the spotlight, Fonda’s advice is simple yet powerful: “Don’t give up.Keep going.It’ll get better.”

Fonda shared that early on in her career, she often struggled with self-doubt and fear of failure.

But through the highs and lows, she realized that perseverance and staying true to oneself were the keys to success.

“It’s easy to get discouraged, especially in this industry where people are quick to judge.

But I wish someone had told me to trust the process.

It’s not always going to be smooth, but if you keep going, it will get better.”

At 85, Jane Fonda is more than just an award-winning actress—she’s a symbol of resilience, authenticity, and commitment to causes greater than herself.

Whether it’s through her roles on-screen or her relentless advocacy for the environment, Fonda continues to inspire generations with her wisdom and determination.

As she embarks on this new chapter of her life and career, Fonda’s journey serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, fight for what you believe in, and live authentically.

The world may change, but Jane Fonda’s unwavering dedication to her truth and causes remains as strong as ever.