Lily Collins has opened up about the challenges of balancing new motherhood with her work on the hit series Emily in Paris. The 36-year-old actress became a mother for the first time in January, welcoming her daughter, Tuve Jane McDowell, with her husband, director Charlie McDowell. Due to Collins’ busy schedule, the baby was born via surrogate, but the actress has taken on most of the parenting responsibilities herself.
Collins has starred as the lead in Emily in Paris since 2020. She recently presented the fifth season of the popular show and admitted that managing both her role as a new mother and filming the latest season was a struggle. Production began in May, and the team moved to Paris during the summer. The actress said she felt like any other new parent trying to juggle work and care for a newborn.
“You have a different goal, and it’s really hard… It’s a struggle, and I’m just grateful I can do both. This year I told everyone, ‘I know my lines, I know my role, but please be patient with me.’ I didn’t sleep, I was exhausted, and maybe not in the best shape,” Collins told The Sun.
In the fifth season, Collins’ character Emily adapts to life in Rome with Marcello, played by Édouard Francesco. Now leading the Grateau agency, Emily faces professional and romantic challenges. As the story unfolds, her ambitious ideas backfire, leading to heartbreak and career setbacks. In search of stability, she immerses herself in the French lifestyle until one of her closest relationships is threatened by a major secret.
The show also saw the departure of 31-year-old French actress Camille Razat. “After an incredible journey, I decided to leave Emily in Paris. It was a truly wonderful experience filled with growth, creativity, and unforgettable memories. I’m deeply grateful to the team for their trust. This character meant a lot to me, and her storyline naturally reached its conclusion,” Razat shared. Collins responded warmly to her co-star: “Love you, sister. It’s been a crazy journey, and I had so much fun. You’re a rock star. I’m so proud of you.”
With her demanding schedule and new role as a mom, Lily Collins’ honesty gives fans a glimpse into the challenges behind the glamorous world of filming Emily in Paris.
