Olivia Wilde has opened up about her experience with co-parenting her two children, Daisy and Otis, with ex-husband Jason Sudeikis. The actress and director, who separated from Sudeikis in 2020, shared her thoughts during a recent episode of the podcast *Call Her Daddy*, hosted by Alex Cooper. Wilde reflected on the way their co-parenting arrangement has impacted her perspective on motherhood and her professional life.
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Wilde expressed her appreciation for the balance that co-parenting provides. “I really value the opportunity to be completely present with them, and then to hand them off to a very capable co-parent who is very present with them when he’s with them,” she stated. This arrangement allows her the essential space to focus on her career, which she described as vital for her personal happiness. “I have this space, which is permission to then go work my f—ing ass off,” she added, suggesting that the arrangement benefits both her and the children.
The actress highlighted that she believes their children are receiving the best parenting from both parties. Wilde noted that their collaborative approach to parenting enables them to bring out the best versions of themselves, explaining, “They get the best of us.” She emphasised that the division of parenting responsibilities has actually allowed them to thrive in their roles as parents, which was less achievable when they were together.
Wilde’s remarks reflect an attitude towards co-parenting that runs counter to traditional views. “We are great f—ing co-parents,” she commented, indicating that their separation has led to a more effective parenting dynamic. In contrast to couples who stay together despite unhappiness “for the kids”, Wilde urges that such situations do more harm than good. Her perspective raises important questions about the modern family structure and the potential benefits of positive separation.
Beyond her thoughts on co-parenting, Wilde addressed the scrutiny she faced following her divorce. She discussed the apparent double standards in how her personal life was perceived, particularly during her relationship with Harry Styles. Wilde explained how the media painted a starkly unfavourable picture of her as a mother compared to her ex-husband, noting, “That hurt.”
Recalling one specific incident, she described a Thanksgiving where she was spending time with her children while Sudeikis was photographed on the beach with his new girlfriend. The press reaction to their respective situations underlined the disparity of judgement; while Sudeikis was celebrated, Wilde faced intense criticism. “If I was away from my children on a national holiday frolicking on a beach, it’d be like, literally, just burn her at the stake now,” she said, highlighting the societal bias that often comes into play against women.
Wilde continued by stating that the way the media scrutinised her parenting choices seemed irrational. She recounted instances when she was away from her children and faced accusations of neglect. “And then I would, on my weeks when I wasn’t [with the kids], and I would be somewhere, people would be like, ‘Well, my, my, my. Oh, she forgot her kids,’” she lamented. This portrayal only added to the challenges of navigating her public persona while managing her private life.
As Wilde discusses the complexities of her co-parenting experience, her reflections contribute to ongoing conversations about the modern family dynamics in the spotlight. While facing media ridicule, she emphasises the importance of mutual respect and collaboration in parenting roles, advocating for a scenario where both parents offer their best to their children.
Wilde’s candid comments resonate with many parents navigating similar challenges. Her insights shed light on the potential for separate but collaborative parenting to thrive and provide a fulfilling environment for children. As societal attitudes towards divorce and co-parenting evolve, Wilde serves as a prominent example of adapting to change while prioritising children’s well-being.