Kristen Bell Opens Up About Her Role as Natalie Suleman and the Power of Motherhood

A Shared Bond Through Motherhood

Kristen Bell, who recently welcomed her first child, a son, in June 2023, has opened up about her connection with Natalie Suleman, the woman she portrays in the upcoming film I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story. Kristen revealed that her ability to relate to Natalie stemmed largely from their shared experience of motherhood. "She’s a human being who, at the end of the day, is a mother and seemingly a really good mother," Kristen said, highlighting Natalie’s dedication to her 14 children, who are described as thriving, lovely, smart, and beautiful. This bond between the two women allowed them to connect on a deep level, often discussing the challenges and joys of motherhood.

Kristen emphasized that becoming a mother herself was a pivotal experience that helped her understand Natalie’s story on a deeper level. While she believes that one doesn’t necessarily need to be a mother to play a mother, she admitted that her recent journey into parenthood gave her a newfound perspective. "I feel like I wouldn’t have been able to play this role had I not become a mother recently," she shared. "I’ve played moms before, and I could understand in my nurturing instincts a way to tap into the role. However, something about it really helped me understand her." This personal connection undoubtedly enriched her performance and added authenticity to her portrayal of Natalie.

Beyond the Headlines: A Look Into Natalie’s Life

Kristen hopes that the film will humanize Natalie Suleman, a woman often defined by headlines and public perception. "Everybody is a whole human, and there’s so much more to every person than what is in the headlines," Kristen said, urging viewers to look beyond the media narrative. Natalie, who also became a grandmother last year, has lived a life filled with complexities and challenges that aren’t always captured in the public eye. The film offers a glimpse into her personal struggles, decisions, and experiences, showcasing a side of her that audiences may not be familiar with.

By sharing Natalie’s story, Kristen and the filmmakers aim to remind people that everyone has a deeper, untold story. "There’s more to everybody than probably shared in the media," Kristen noted, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding. The film not only explores Natalie’s life as a mother of 14 but also delves into her resilience and the role of family in overcoming adversity. It’s a powerful reminder that behind every headline is a real person with real struggles, triumphs, and emotions.

I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story Premieres on Lifetime

The highly anticipated film I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story is set to premiere on Lifetime on March 8 at 8 p.m. EST. The movie promises to offer an intimate and nuanced look at Natalie’s life, exploring her journey as a mother, her public persona, and the challenges she has faced. Kristen Bell’s performance is expected to bring depth and empathy to the role, thanks to her own experiences as a mother and her connection with Natalie.

Following the movie, Lifetime will air the docuseries Confessions of Octomom on March 10, which will provide an even deeper dive into Natalie’s life and experiences. These two projects aim to shed light on the real Natalie Suleman, beyond the sensationalized stories that have often dominated the media. For fans of the film and those curious about Natalie’s life, the docuseries will offer additional insights and personal reflections from Natalie herself.

Family and Resilience: A Central Theme

Central to both the film and the docuseries is the theme of family and resilience. Natalie’s story is one of overcoming incredible odds, and her ability to raise 14 children while navigating public scrutiny is a testament to her strength and determination. Kristen Bell hopes that audiences will take away a sense of hope and the importance of family from the film. "We can overcome anything, and family is such a wonderful thing to push us through," she said, reflecting on the power of love and support in the face of adversity.

By focusing on these themes, the film and docuseries aim to inspire viewers to reevaluate their assumptions about Natalie and other public figures. Too often, people are reduced to headlines or sensationalized stories, but Natalie’s journey reminds us that there is always more to the story. Her resilience, love for her children, and ability to persevere in the face of challenges are at the heart of this project.

Celebrating the Suleman Family Through the Years

In addition to the film and docuseries, Natalie has shared photos of her family over the years, giving fans a glimpse into her life outside of the spotlight. These photos showcase the love, joy, and connection that define her family, offering a more personal and intimate look at her journey as a mother. From milestones to everyday moments, these images highlight the beauty of family and the importance of cherishing life’s simple pleasures.

As the premiere of I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story approaches, audiences are invited to see Natalie in a new light—one that goes beyond the headlines and into the heart of her story. Through Kristen Bell’s performance and the upcoming docuseries, viewers will have the opportunity to understand Natalie not just as "Octomom," but as a multidimensional person with a rich and compelling life.

In the end, this project is not just about Natalie Suleman; it’s about the universal themes of motherhood, family, and resilience that resonate with people from all walks of life. By sharing her story, Natalie and Kristen hope to inspire others to embrace their own journeys with courage, love, and hope.