Taylor Frankie Paul is publicly expressing gratitude for the support she has received during challenging times, crediting her therapist for her impressive transformation over the past year. Recognized as one of PEOPLE's 2024 Creators of the Year, Paul, star of Hulu's hit reality series The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, shared how the stresses of motherhood and newfound fame pushed her to seek help.
"She was sent to me very Specifically," Paul told PEOPLE about her therapist. Reflecting on her turbulent past year, Paul revealed, "I was really struggling this year, [and I] feel like I've been through a lot." The pressures of being pregnant, combined with the demands of her show, made for quite the rollercoaster ride for the 30-year-old influencer. "I prayed for help because I was really struggling... I feel like I prayed for help and it was [helped] through [my therapist]."
Paul emphasized the instrumental role her therapist played, detailing how she often stayed up late ensuring Paul felt supported. "The effort she has put to help me — late nights and making sure I'm okay as a person — she really cared..."
Alongside her therapist's contributions, Paul, together with her castmate Whitney Leavitt, also discussed the shock of their show's incredible success. "I had no idea it would hit number one on Hulu, and so soon," she shared. Paul noted how the variety of viewers, including many men, added to the surprise. "That was my biggest surprise, a thousand percent."
The film Unstoppable bears significance for another celebrated artist, Jennifer Lopez, who draws on her own experiences as she portrays Judy Robles, the mother of champion wrestler Anthony Robles, who was born with only one leg. Lopez, 55, shared how her role resonates with her life as she raises twins Max and Emme, 16, with ex-husband Marc Anthony.
Opening up about her character, Lopez explained, "I've been a single mom at times in my life, and [I've asked,] 'Am I enough for them?'" She continued, "And the truth is, all you need is really one good parent to love you." This sentiment echoes throughout the film, projecting the powerful message of resilience and love.
The real-life Judy Robles commended Lopez's portrayal, stating, "She was able to really take on how I felt — the highs and the lows... We long to be loved, and we want something impossible to work out... there's always a little bit of hope."
During her time off this summer, following the cancellation of her This Is Me... Live tour, Lopez found the experience transformative. "I decided to take this summer off and be home with the kids, and it was the best thing I think I’ve ever done," she recalled. Her words speak to the balance many working parents strive to achieve.
Both women exemplify the power of support systems, whether through therapy or family connections, as they navigate their complex roles in the public spotlight. From the highs of personal achievements to the highs of family love, their stories resonate deeply with anyone juggling the demands of career and parenthood.
