Michelle Keegan, who was once predicted to become a Hollywood star, is feeling “torn” between focusing on being a full-time mother and taking advantage of some exciting career opportunities. Although she only gave birth to baby Palma four months ago, TV executives are already eager to work with her, according to a source, which has left her facing a tough decision.
The source explains that Michelle is known for her strong work ethic, so she’s conflicted about whether to stay home with her baby or return to acting. The entertainment industry is unpredictable since actors are usually self-employed and never sure when their next job will come. Even though it’s still early days after her maternity, Michelle is seriously considering her options because there’s high demand for her talent. Lately, everything she gets involved in seems to be very successful.
Just a few weeks ago, it was announced that Michelle, originally from Stockport, had signed a lucrative six-figure deal to become a new face for Sky, alongside Luther star Idris Elba. Recently, Michelle posted pictures of herself getting ready on set for an undisclosed project.
Wearing stylish linen pants and a top with “Copacabana” printed on it, the 38-year-old was having her hair and makeup done. This could be her first major work commitment since giving birth to her first child, Palma, with her husband Mark Wright—a former TOWIE star turned presenter—on March 6.
For Michelle, who rose to fame in 2008 playing Tina McIntyre on Coronation Street, this means temporarily stepping away from the most important role in her life: being a mother.
Parenting expert Joy Randolph told OK! that Michelle’s feelings are completely normal and very common among new mothers. She explained that it’s a natural emotional struggle between wanting to be present for every moment with your baby and also honoring the career you’ve worked hard to build. This isn’t about a lack of love or dedication—it’s just the reality many working moms face today.
Joy said Michelle’s experience represents what many women go through. She’s not choosing between her baby and her career, but trying to balance both at the same time, just like millions of other mothers. This isn’t a weakness—it’s simply what motherhood is all about.
With Michelle’s Sky comedy Brassic finishing its seventh and final season, she’s clearly keen to maintain her relationship with the network in a new role.
A source added that the deal with Sky is Michelle’s way of cautiously returning to work and figuring out what feels right for her. She understands that she can’t get this time with baby Palma back, but it’s difficult to turn down opportunities when she’s in high demand and uncertain how long that will continue.
The source added that even though Mark is a fantastic and supportive father, Michelle finds the idea of leaving her baby, even briefly, really difficult. She’s very ambitious and, after her success with Fool Me Once, it’s hard for her to imagine staying away from work for too long.
Since leaving Coronation Street, Michelle’s career has taken off. She’s starred in lead roles in the BBC military drama Our Girl, Sky’s Brassic, and the BBC Australian period drama Ten Pound Poms.
However, her status as a star was truly solidified last year with her standout performance as Maya Stern in Netflix’s thriller Fool Me Once, which became a worldwide success and led to speculation that she might be considered for roles in Hollywood.
Between work projects, Michelle will likely return to the family’s home in Essex to continue her life there. Michelle and Mark have clearly been enjoying their new roles as parents, often sharing sweet moments of baby Palma on their social media.
The family recently came back from Spain, where they stayed at the £300-a-night SO/Sotogrande Spa & Golf Resort Hotel with Mark’s extended family. This was Palma’s first trip abroad. It’s believed that Palma’s name was inspired by the Spanish island of Majorca, where the couple also owns a home.
According to our source, Mark has adapted to fatherhood naturally, “like a duck to water,” and is fully supportive of whatever choices Michelle makes. Mark, also 38, returned to work at the Heart FM studio with his friend and co-host Olly Murs just a few days after Palma was born.
Talking to Olly, who became a father for the first time last year, Mark said he planned to video call his wife and daughter during breaks in the studio.
He added, “It really makes you appreciate everything our mums did for us, and has given me even more respect for what women go through.” He also praised Michelle, calling her a “superhero.”
“Michelle has formed a strong bond with Palma, and so has Mark. Michelle is enjoying every moment of motherhood, and they both feel the wait was completely worth it. Palma is a very happy baby, and Michelle and Mark are wonderful parents—nothing seems to bother them. They’re truly thriving in their new roles.”