Broadcaster Stacey Dooley, known for her extensive documentary work, has opened up about the profound impact of motherhood, describing it as an experience for which she was 'so unprepared'. The 37-year-old gave birth to her daughter Minnie in January 2023 and has since chronicled her journey in a new book, 'Dear Minnie'.
Dooley admitted that before becoming a mother, she underestimated the challenges, saying, 'I used to see mums finding it tough and I’d think, “It can’t be that hard.” ... I owe all of those women an apology.' She cited sleep deprivation as particularly overwhelming, noting, 'I’ve never in my life been that tired.'
The documentary maker revealed that her partner, dancer Kevin Clifton, took two weeks of paternity leave before returning to his role in the 'Chicago' UK tour. Dooley recalled feeling 'jealous' that he would be sleeping through the night while she coped alone, supported by her mother and Clifton's parents.
Dooley, who once prided herself on being level-headed, admitted that Minnie has become her 'Achilles heel'. When her daughter contracted bronchiolitis, she found it 'difficult not to catastrophise' despite reassurances from nurses. She described a new, unrecognisable love that has 'made me love everyone'.
Reflecting on her career, Dooley acknowledged that her identity was previously wrapped up in work, but motherhood has shifted her priorities. 'The priority now is trying to be a really fucking good mum,' she said, adding that while proud of her documentaries, 'I wasn’t radically changing things.'
