Gabourey Sidibe, the acclaimed actress known for her powerful performances, is navigating the complex balance of motherhood and her return to the entertainment industry. She and her husband, Brandon Frankel, recently welcomed their first child. Their twins, Cooper and Maya, just celebrated their first birthday in April 2025! Sidibe, fiercely protective of her children, aims to shield them from the chaos of Hollywood while cherishing the consuming experience of motherhood.
With the birth of Sidibe’s twins in April 2024, a whole new chapter began. Even during their first year, she has made known her wish to shelter them from the spotlight. “First of all, my babies don’t have screen time,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to providing a normal upbringing for Cooper and Maya.
As a continuing process to protect her life and space, Sidibe has decided to put up the wall of silence around her artistry. Secondly, I’m going to continue to flat out deceive them as long as possible about what I do for a living. I’m not going to say that I’m a teacher, and how about this, our household is super average,” she said. This determination reflects her intention to create a grounded environment for her family amidst the often tumultuous nature of celebrity life.
Sidibe’s acting comeback was nothing short of a powerful homecoming after embracing motherhood. Next, she’ll be seen starring in Lifetime’s highly anticipated thriller, Give Me Back My Daughter. She remembered that shift as challenging yet fulfilling, appreciating the sense of structure it brought. An innate trait she deeply valued. “All I needed to do every single day was just focus on my lines, focus on my work, hit my marks, and drink water and mind my business,” she explained.
Sidibe’s journey has certainly not been an easy one. Juggling her professional endeavors with the responsibilities of being a mother takes some serious planning and commitment. She takes comfort in being with her children. By knowing they are safe it gives her the peace of mind that she needs so that she can efficiently pursue her career.
Frankel posted some emotional tributes to their twins’ first birthday. “HAPPY HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY COOPER & MAYA!!! It’s been an honor to get to know you both and help you grow into the little miniature people you are—walking, talking, dancing, hugging, kissing, demanding songs, calling every animal ‘CAT!’, eating big people food—just the absolute best,” he expressed joyfully.
As she enters this next chapter of life, Sidibe emphasizes the importance of self-care. Juggling her duties as a parent and a performer, she makes her health a priority. She makes sure to fill her cup first, so she is in a good place to serve others. This allows her to spend quality time with her kids, as well as follow her dreams.