‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ star Nia Vardalos talks parenting, more
The MOMS with Nia Vardalos and Elena Kampouris at "My Big Fat Wedding 2" Mamarazzi event in New York City. Credit: Jonathan Breton
Nia Vardalos knows a thing or two about the importance of family.
Besides starring in “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2,” which recently hit theaters, Vardalos and her husband, Ian Gomez, are also parents to an almost 11-year-old daughter, Illaria.
The 53-year-old actress and writer was recently in Manhattan promoting her new movie, a sequel to the beloved “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,’’ at a special Mamarazzi event hosted by The Moms. “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2” follows the Portokalos family as Toula (Vardalos) and her husband Ian (John Corbett) deal with a rebellious teenager who challenges many of the Greek traditions. A family secret brings the entire family together for an even bigger wedding than before.
When asked why it took so long for a sequel to the original movie, Vardalos said she was waiting for motherhood.
“At the end of the first movie I wrote that I was a mom, and so I knew if I was going to take the story into the next generation that I would have to know these feelings,” she said. “Now I’m a mother, and my daughter is almost 11 years old, so I began writing again.”
As a mother in the movie, Vardalos tackles many issues parents of teenagers face, including sending them off to college.
“I became a mom recently, you know I’m still getting used to it,” said Vardalos. “I can’t process the thought that my daughter might go away to college. It’s my biggest fear and also so interesting for me to get a second degree.”
Her daughter, Illaria, weighed in on the movie.
“When I read her the script, her only advice was to get rid of the kissing scenes because ‘Mom, nobody likes kissing in movies,’” said Vardalos.
Vardalos’ advice for moms?
“I just think it’s important to make time for yourself, period,” she said. “I think that we’re in a time where we forget to just go for a walk and look up at a tree. We’re all on our phones a lot. What I found when I became a mom is that I forgot about myself. I definitely think it’s about balance in all aspects about your life.”
