Gabriella Wilde, once the epitome of the 'It Girl' era, is making a triumphant return to the silver screen with a new film, 'Mother's Pride'. But her journey back to acting hasn't been a straightforward one.
Ten years ago, Gabriella, then known as Gabriella Gough-Calthorpe, was a rising star with her striking looks and an aristocratic background. She graced our screens in various roles, from the posh and privileged to the lovelorn teen. However, her path took an unexpected turn when she became a mother to her third son in 2019.
"It's a challenging balance to strike," Gabriella shares, reflecting on her decision to step away from acting. "Being an actress and a mother is not an easy feat, but it's not impossible either. It requires an incredible amount of dedication and resilience from women who choose this path."
What makes Gabriella's story particularly intriguing is her unique perspective. She's not alone in this challenge; her 'unofficial' stepsister, Cressida Bonas, can relate. Cressida, who has also pursued an acting career, has taken a step back since becoming a mother. It's a testament to the difficulties many women face in balancing their careers and motherhood.
Gabriella's break from acting wasn't just about motherhood; it was also an opportunity to explore another passion. She delved into the world of grief and palliative care, a field she found fascinating. Her personal interest in grief and mortality led her to work in this space for five years, and she plans to launch a podcast on the subject soon.
"I believe engaging with these topics can bring us back to the present and enrich our lives," Gabriella explains. "It's about finding our place in the cycle of life and death, and nature plays a significant role in that process."
Her new film, 'Mother's Pride', explores similar themes. It follows a grieving family's journey to save their pub, and Gabriella's character, Abi, resonates deeply with her. Abi, a teacher and a mother, embodies a simple yet fulfilling life, something Gabriella aspires to.
"Nature is my sanctuary," Gabriella reveals. "Being in the countryside, surrounded by the seasons and cycles, brings me immense joy and perspective. It's a reminder of the beauty and simplicity in life."
As Gabriella returns to acting, she emphasizes that her role as a mother takes precedence. "Motherhood has taught me so much about life and myself. I'm still learning, but it's an incredible journey."
Looking ahead, Gabriella is excited about the future. She's eager to take on more complex roles as she ages, moving beyond the ingénue typecasting. "I'm open to whatever comes my way. I don't know what's around the corner, but I'm ready to embrace it."
'Mother's Pride' hits cinemas on March 6th, marking Gabriella Wilde's return to the spotlight and a new chapter in her career.
