British actress Mia McKenna-Bruce has opened up about the sexist remarks she encountered after resuming her career when her newborn son was merely six weeks old. The 28-year-old star, who welcomed Leo with partner Tom Leach in 2023, returned to work shortly after to promote her drama film How To Have Sex, but found the experience marred by outdated attitudes.
A Stark Reality for Working Mothers
Speaking on Josh Smith’s Great Chat Show podcast, McKenna-Bruce candidly stated that the world is not cut out for working mums, as society continues to grapple with balancing motherhood and professional life. She expressed how she naturally connects with other working mothers on set, sharing a sense of camaraderie over the immense challenges they face.
The Burden of Mum Guilt
The actress detailed the intense mum guilt that accompanies her dual roles, torn between her passion for acting and her love for her child. I'm doing something I love so much and I never want to stop, but I love my child, she explained, highlighting the internal conflict many mothers endure. McKenna-Bruce emphasised that she aims to teach her son the value of pursuing dreams, yet acknowledges the harsh reality where mothers often struggle to even see their children due to work demands.
Sexist Encounters in the Workplace
Upon her early return, McKenna-Bruce faced intrusive questions from colleagues and peers. So many people were like, 'Oh God, where is he, where's the baby?' she recalled. When she responded that her son was with his father, the reactions underscored a double standard: They go, 'Oh, you're so lucky he can have him.' If it was the other way around, no one would say that. She pointed out that society often assumes mothers should be the primary caregivers, leading to unfair scrutiny when they are not.
Mental Well-Being and Professional Identity
McKenna-Bruce also shared that returning to work was crucial for her maternal mental well-being. After giving birth, she felt lost and overwhelmed, stating, I don't know how to be me and how to take care of a baby. Going back to her career helped her regain a sense of self, proving that work can be a vital part of postpartum recovery for some women.
Her story sheds light on broader issues in the UK entertainment industry and beyond, where working mothers navigate sexism, guilt, and societal expectations. As McKenna-Bruce advocates for greater understanding, her experiences resonate with many facing similar battles in balancing parenthood and profession.
