Katherine Heigl, best known for her roles in “27 Dresses” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” says she cannot imagine leaving her family life behind for a full return to Hollywood. The 46-year-old actress, who now lives in Utah, explained that raising her children is her top priority.
In an interview with E! News, Heigl shared that her three children — Naleigh, 15, Adalaide, 13, and Joshua, 8 — need her more than ever now that they are growing up. Because of this, she feels unable to take on long-term acting projects that would require her to travel far from home.
Raising Teens Takes Priority for Katherine Heigl
Heigl spoke openly about how parenting has shifted as her children have grown older.
“When they’re little, that’s the most delicious and exciting time for you as a parent,” Heigl said. “But when they’re teenagers is when they need you the most, and that’s where I’m at.”
The actress explained that many acting jobs require several months of filming. Since most productions are not based in Utah, she would have to leave home for extended periods. Right now, she simply cannot see herself doing that.
“I just don’t see how I could go off and make a movie for three months or a television series for nine months,” she said. “Nothing shoots in Utah, so I have to go on location, and it’s just not something right now that I can fathom doing successfully.”
Heigl added that she would feel divided between her work and her family if she accepted a major role. Her focus remains on her children and making sure she is there for them during important years of their lives.
Katherine Heigl’s Recent Acting Projects
Although Heigl has taken a step back from Hollywood, she has not completely left acting. Her last movie role was in the 2021 psychological drama “Fear of Rain.” She also appeared in the popular Netflix series “Firefly Lane,” with the second part of season two airing in 2023.
Looking ahead, Heigl is set to appear in a new musical romantic comedy called “That’s Amore!” where she will play a character named Patty Amore. However, no official filming start date has been announced yet.
Despite these projects, Heigl made it clear that she is not rushing to re-enter the hustle and bustle of Hollywood life.
A New Chapter of Peace and Contentment
After many busy years building her career, Heigl has found peace in her new lifestyle. She described feeling a deep sense of joy and clarity since moving to Utah and slowing down her work life.
“Sometimes I ask myself if I should be in the game, if I should be hustling, if I should be more ambitious,” Heigl said. “And I just think I really don’t want to.”
Heigl stressed that she feels no pressure to meet outside expectations. She believes it is important to follow what feels right personally, not what society expects.
“If you don’t want that, then don’t do it, just because you think that’s what you’re supposed to do,” she said.
Reflecting on Past Choices and Future Hopes
Even though Heigl is grateful for her successful acting career, she admits she has some regrets. She wishes she had spent more time with her children when they were younger.
“My children were younger, and though I will always regret so much of the time I missed with them while I was hustling, while I was working, I am grateful to be here now,” she said.
Today, Heigl enjoys a slower-paced life where she can be fully present with her family. She often shares glimpses of her life on social media, giving fans a look into her home life in Utah.
Her story highlights the challenges many parents face when trying to balance career goals and family responsibilities. Katherine Heigl’s choice to focus on her children over her career sends a strong message about the value of being present for loved ones.
