Brenda Song Had Imposter Syndrome as She Became a Mom — Now She’s Embracing This ‘Next Phase’ of Life (Exclusive)

Brenda Song Embraces Motherhood and Career Evolution

Brenda Song, known for her roles in various movies and TV shows, including the popular Disney series “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody,” recently opened up about her evolving role as a mother and actress. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 36-year-old actress shared her experiences of grappling with imposter syndrome and finding a new phase in life after becoming a mother of two children with her partner, Macaulay Culkin.

Reflecting on her journey in the entertainment industry and her recent role in Netflix’s “Running Point,” Song candidly admitted to struggling with self-doubt about her place in the industry despite her long-standing career. “I feel like I still have imposter syndrome,” she shared. “It’s so hard because I think for me, having grown up in this industry, it’s like you’re always going to go through phases. You understand evolution and changing and always trying to figure out who you are on top of just growing up and being a human.”

The actress revealed that the past five years have been particularly transformative for her, with motherhood significantly impacting her perspective on life and career. Song expressed how finding fulfillment as a mom has marked a new chapter in her life, causing a shift in priorities. She acknowledged the challenges of balancing societal expectations with personal aspirations, especially as a working mother navigating Hollywood’s demands.

While discussing her recent projects like “The Last Showgirl” and “Running Point,” Song highlighted the importance of working with empowering women like director Gia Coppola and actress Kate Hudson. She described how these collaborations inspired and reignited her passion for her craft, pushing her creatively in ways she had not experienced before.

Amidst what fans have dubbed a “Brendaissance,” Song expressed gratitude for the opportunities to work on projects she is proud of and with individuals she admires. Despite the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry, she remains thankful for the consistent work and the chance to pursue her lifelong dreams for over three decades.

Acknowledging the vital role of her support system, Song credited her parents, siblings, and fiancé for enabling her to navigate the challenges of both her professional and personal life. She emphasised the importance of their unwavering support in her journey, from managing child stardom to embracing the complexities of motherhood while pursuing her career.

Regarding her own children, Song and Culkin have intentionally shielded them from the spotlight, valuing their privacy and autonomy. While she acknowledges the unique challenges of growing up in the industry today, she expressed willingness to support her children if they choose to pursue acting in the future, highlighting the rich experiences and opportunities she gained from her own acting career.

As fans await the premiere of “Running Point” on Netflix, Brenda Song’s narrative reflects the evolving landscape of motherhood, career evolution, and personal growth in the entertainment industry. Her candid reflections offer a glimpse into the complexities of balancing professional aspirations with the joys and challenges of parenthood, resonating with many who navigate similar journeys of self-discovery and fulfilment in various aspects of life.