‘What we go through as actors in the industry, our parents also go through it': Jacqueline Fernandez on how parents' support important for child's career

Indian Express

25-05-2025

Jacqueline Fernandez recently represented India at the Red Sea Film Festival at Cannes. During her time at the French Riviera, The Hollywood Reporter caught up with her for a quick interview, where the Gentleman actor recalled the time when her family supported her during her Hollywood debut.
During the shooting of Kill 'Em All 2, her entire family flew down to Italy while she was shooting. 'I just couldn't believe. I was doing lines with him (Jean-Claude Van Damme), working with him. He was my icon. I think my entire family. We had this laser disc. My dad was hellbent that if we have to watch Jean Claude, we have to watch him on a laser disc. And cut to, I am on a set with him in Italy. We helped each other with lines. My parents came down and they were like, 'We love our daughter. She made us proud.' Life came full circle. At moments like this you feel it was all worth it–the struggle, the challenges, everything,' she told the publication.
Sharing her two cents about the struggle actors face in the industry, Fernandez added: ''What we go through as actors in the industry, our parents also go through it. Everything, it's out there. It takes so much for parents to still support you through everything. My mother was always proud of me and she would always want me to keep striving and dreaming. '
Rima Bhandekar, Psychologist Mpower Aditya Birla Education Trust, told indian express.com that supportive parenting is about asking your child what they want to be, without adding 'you should' right after. Supportive parenting is one of the predictors of a child confidently choosing their own career, even if it is far from parental legacy and societal expectations.
'Such parents provide the space needed to choose what feels right for the child, such as resources, encouragement, and emotional stability while giving them the choice to choose their own path without judgement of tradition, societal status, prestige, and money,' she explained.
By doing so, Bhandekar said that children know their self-worth isn't connected tightly to fulfilling someone else's dream; but their own passion, they're better prepared to handle setbacks on their own. They are more likely to stand firm in their choices due to nurturing space provided by parents who value who they are, not just what they achieve.
According to Banerjee, supportive parenting is about being there for your children without controlling every decision. It involves encouraging independence, and respecting their right to choose. She shared 3 valuable tips to help children flourish:
Let kids try different activities—like sports, arts, coding, or volunteering. These varied experiences help them understand what sparks their interest. Children learn best when they're allowed to explore without feeling forced into a choice.
Share your own career stories and lessons without telling them what to do. Your advice as a conversation starter can help them to get a direction. For example, say, 'I did this when I faced a tough decision,' instead of 'You must do this.' It keeps the door open for them to choose their path.
Create a safe space where your kids can share fears and ambitions. Check in regularly and listen actively. When children feel heard, they're more likely to share doubts and seek advice. Trust and understanding strengthen their ability to make confident choices.