Rebel Wilson is embracing her new role as a mother both on and off-screen with her portrayal of Lady Capulet in the upcoming musical drama “Juliet & Romeo,” which premieres in theaters on May 9. In this reimagined version of Shakespeare’s classic, Wilson seeks to add depth and empathy to the character, traditionally seen as the villainous mother.
Reflecting on her journey, Wilson, 45, shared, “Seeing me in these Hollywood glossy comedies, you wouldn’t expect me to do a turn as Lady Capulet. But I was a new mother when I got offered this role, and I tried to give it a little bit more empathy.” In this film, Wilson joins a talented cast, including Jason Isaacs as Lord Montague, Clara Rugaard as Juliet, Jamie Ward as Romeo, and the esteemed Sir Derek Jacobi as the Friar. Notably, this adaptation features a more uplifting ending compared to the original tragic tale.
Having welcomed her daughter, Royce, via surrogacy in November 2022 and marrying her partner Ramona Agruma in September 2024, Wilson describes how motherhood has profoundly changed her life. She confides that her perspectives on work and priorities have shifted dramatically since becoming a parent. “I can’t just leave the house. I’ve got to be always thinking about my daughter and what’s good for her,” she explained, acknowledging the positive impact this has had on her life.
Wilson, known for her roles in films like “Bridesmaids” and “Pitch Perfect,” noted her desire to diversify her acting portfolio by taking on more complex roles. She recalled auditioning for the role of Elvis’s mother in the 2022 biopic, only to be told she appeared too young for the part. This prompted her excitement about portraying a mother figure in “Juliet & Romeo,” a role that feels particularly rewarding now that she has experienced motherhood herself.
“Sometimes as an actor, you just want to do something a little bit different,” she said, while expressing the newfound versatility she feels after her own weight loss journey in 2020. “I think people see you differently and can imagine you more easily in different roles.”
Wilson’s commitment to family and her creative endeavors reflects a heartening blend of personal growth and professional exploration, demonstrating that life experiences can enrich artistic expression. As she continues balancing motherhood with her career, Wilson’s journey serves as an inspiring example of how new roles can lead to newfound depths in both life and art.