Are Defensive Stocks Worth the Hype?

I've been reading a lot about defensive stocks lately, especially with all this market volatility. It's tempting to put some money into these safer bets, but I’m curious about others' experiences. Have you had any success with defensive stocks during downturns, or did they not perform as expected?

I understand the premise—companies that provide essential goods and services, like utilities or consumer staples, tend to hold up better when things get rocky. But with inflation and rising interest rates, I wonder if that still holds true. Are there any specific stocks you've invested in that you’d recommend? Just trying to weigh the pros and cons and figure out if they’re a smart move right now. Would love to hear your thoughts!