Roxy Shahidi, known for her role as Leyla Harding in Emmerdale, candidly discussed her daughter’s traumatic birth and the struggles she faced with ‘mum guilt’. She joined ITVBe’s Drama Queens, a show that gives a glimpse into soap stars’ lives as they balance demanding careers with personal life. Roxy let the cameras capture her most vulnerable moments, including discussing the loss of her father at a young age. Feeling anxious about sharing these personal segments with millions, Roxy described being authentic on the show as leaving her feeling exposed.
As a private person, Roxy admitted that committing to the new series was a big decision for her. Filming for Drama Queens was a challenge, as it required her to step out of her comfort zone and share personal aspects of her life. Despite her reservations, Roxy opened up about the challenges she faced following her daughter’s premature birth. She revealed that the traumatic experience left emotional scars that she is now addressing with therapy. Roxy, who has been part of Emmerdale since 2008, explained that part of her decision to take on new challenges like Drama Queens and Dancing On Ice was fueled by turning 40 and wanting to embrace new experiences.
While Roxy is comfortable discussing her personal struggles on Drama Queens, she remains protective of her family, particularly her six-year-old daughter whom she shares with her husband, actor Arsher Ali. The actress has always kept her daughter out of the public eye and has no plans to change that approach. Despite her family’s absence from the show, Roxy engaged in discussions with her Emmerdale co-stars, including conversations about ‘mum guilt’. She emphasized the importance of working through feelings of guilt to prioritize self-care and maintain a balanced life as a parent.
Roxy’s openness about her daughter’s traumatic birth and her own struggles with ‘mum guilt’ resonated with many mothers. She believes it is essential to address these challenges openly and seek support when needed. The actress revealed that she is currently undergoing therapy and finding it to be a healing and empowering experience. As a qualified yoga instructor, Roxy emphasized the importance of self-care and relaxation, expressing her interest in yoga sessions and a holiday to unwind. While she is considering new reality TV opportunities, Roxy has no plans to leave Emmerdale and remains enthusiastic about her role in the popular soap opera.
