EastEnders Star Jac Jossa Opens Up on Life After 30: “I Don’t Have to Prove Myself to Anyone”
Embracing Motherhood and Family Life
EastEnders actress Jacqueline Jossa, 32, is embracing life like never before. A mum to two daughters, Ella, nine, and Mia, six, with husband Dan Osbourne, the star credits her “village” of family and friends for helping her juggle the daily demands of parenthood.
“It really takes a village to raise a family, and I have a village around me,” says Jac. “My husband is incredible. He also works and is very busy, so when we’re juggling, we’re usually juggling together. Luckily my mum is incredible too, and so is Dan’s dad, so we have a lot of help and support.”
After a turbulent year, including selling their £2 million Essex home amid split rumours, Jac and Dan appear to have found stability. In April, they shared a “make or break” holiday in Mexico, and in June, they celebrated their eighth wedding anniversary, marking a fresh chapter for the family.
Nurturing Her Children’s Passions
Jac says her daughters have very distinct personalities. Mia has inherited her father’s love of sports, especially football, while Ella combines athletic ability with Dan’s “quick and dry” sense of humour. “Mia has been asking me for ages about joining football sessions. Obviously, her dad loves it, and so does Teddy [Dan’s son],” Jac smiles.
When asked whether she’d support her children following in her acting footsteps, Jac is clear: she wants them to pursue their passions. “I started acting at 17 and had an incredible time, but I would help them and protect them if they wanted to go into the business. At the same time, if one of them wants to be a dentist, we’ll support that too!”
Balancing Work and Parenting
Despite the demands of EastEnders, where Jac plays Lauren Branning, she prioritizes family time. Last month, the family enjoyed a sun-soaked holiday in Spain, offering a rare period of respite. Jac explains that her children remain mostly unfazed by her celebrity status.
“They don’t know anything – and they don’t know any different. Everything goes over their heads in a really beautiful way,” she says. Jac also ensures her daughters understand gratitude, with small tasks and pocket money teaching responsibility.
Health, Fitness, and Self-Love
Turning 30 has profoundly changed Jac’s outlook. She has embraced exercise as a “fun part of life” and shifted her focus from vanity to well-being. “It’s not totally about vanity for me. Now, it’s about staying happy and healthy,” she explains.
Having previously struggled with body image and social media negativity, Jac says she now maintains a healthier balance. “I feel like I’m the best version of myself. I’m confident and I just want that for my kids as well.”
Living for Herself
Jac credits her milestone birthday with inspiring a new mindset. “I hit 30 and just stopped living for other people. I love myself now – and I don’t have to prove myself to anyone,” she shares. This self-assured perspective underpins her approach to parenting, work, and personal life.
Her advice to anyone struggling with balance or self-doubt? Build a supportive network, focus on health, and prioritize what truly matters. For Jac Jossa, life after 30 is about family, confidence, and enjoying the present moment – on her own terms.