In an upcoming episode of Amanda Hirsch’s podcast, Not Skinny But Not Fat, Mandy Moore provides a heartfelt account of her friendship with fellow actress Hilary Duff, highlighting how the latter supported her during her first pregnancy. The discussion comes as Moore, known for her role in the hit series This Is Us, reflects on the challenges and experiences of motherhood amidst the uncertainties of the pandemic.
Moore, who is a mother to three children—August “Gus,” 5, Oscar “Ozzie,” 3, and Louise “Lou,” 21 months—shares in a clip obtained by PEOPLE that her bond with Duff, who is raising four children, has been particularly significant in navigating her early motherhood journey. The two actresses, who became close friends after meeting in 2018, found themselves in parallel situations, as Duff was experiencing her third pregnancy around the same time Moore was expecting her first child.
“I was able to immediately lean on her,” Moore recalls. “You’ve done this twice before; you’re on your third. Tell me all the things.” This candid exchange reflects the understanding and camaraderie that comes from shared experiences, especially during transformative life events like pregnancy.
Moore goes on to express her admiration for Duff’s nurturing nature, noting that the singer and actress opened her home to other new mothers during the pandemic. Duff’s initiative led to the formation of baby classes where mothers could come together, fostering a supportive community. Moore describes the early days of these gatherings as filled with joy and fun, where, as she describes it, their babies were merely “little blobs lying on the grass” during music classes.
The actress emphasises how Duff’s kindness created a welcoming environment during such a tumultuous time. “She was the one that welcomed in all these other new moms,” Moore says, underscoring the importance of their shared moments during the isolation of the pandemic. “I have become a mom with her and she’s the best,” she adds, testament to the strong bond they built while raising their children.
The ongoing pandemic presented a unique set of challenges for expectant and new parents alike, and Moore poignantly describes the experience as “incredibly confusing and scary.” Her comments resonate with many who felt particularly vulnerable during those uncertain times. Friendship and community became essential lifelines, something both women seemed to find in each other.
In a previous interview with Glamour, Moore elaborated further on her relationship with Duff. She expressed her gratitude for the chance to raise their children around families who share similar values. “I feel exceedingly lucky that my kids happen to spend time with people that I feel like our values are aligned with,” she remarked, highlighting a new depth to her friendships forged through motherhood.
The strong connection between the two actresses is a reminder of the importance of having a solid support network while navigating parenthood, especially during challenging times. As Moore continues to embrace her role as a mother, she acknowledges the unexpected yet rewarding friendships that have blossomed through this shared journey.
Overall, Moore’s reflection on her friendship with Duff offers a poignant insight into the complexities of motherhood, the support of friendships, and the ways in which they can help individuals become stronger during adversity. As the podcast episode approaches, listeners can look forward to more in-depth discussions about these experiences, illuminating the often unseen challenges faced by new parents.