Tika Sumpter is a multifaceted talent whose career extends far beyond her role as a mother. While she is best known for her standout performances in both television and film, the actress, producer, and entrepreneur is also a powerful advocate for empowering women and raising awareness about the importance of self-care. Recently, Sumpter sat down with Mother to talk motherhood, her new movie, and more, proving that she is more than “just a mom.”
“Motherhood has shown me that I’m more than ‘just a mom.’ Don’t get me wrong, being a mother is one of the most fulfilling parts of my life, but I’m also an entrepreneur, a wife, a friend, and so much more,” Sumpter tells the news outlet in her interview.
“I’ve learned that it’s okay for my identity to keep shifting. It took time to realize that I didn’t have to lose myself in motherhood. I can still pursue my dreams and honor all the parts of who I am.”
The mother-of-one continued in her interview telling the outlet that being a mother was always in the back of her head; yet, it wasn’t until she was 36, she was blessed with a pleasant surprise.
“I think the idea of being a mother was always there in the back of my mind, but I didn’t have a set timeline for it. That’s probably why I had my daughter later in life. For one, I didn’t meet someone who made me want to expand on that idea until later, and secondly, I’ve always been career-driven. My focus was on my career for a long time. Motherhood didn’t become a more tangible thought for me until later on. Honestly, Ella wasn’t planned—she was the most beautiful surprise.”
Fast-forward and eight-years-later, Sumpter has grown in her role as a parent, saying that the journey has given her the ability to see herself “more clearly,” embracing the fact that she is “an entrepreneur, a wife, a friend, and so much more.”
“Motherhood has taught me to see myself more clearly. It’s made me realize where I’ve gone wrong in the past, and how important it is to take accountability. Like, apologizing quickly when I need to. It’s also helped me slow down, take a breath, and express my feelings better. I know that if I can’t express my emotions in a healthy way, I can’t teach my daughter how to do the same.”
Sumpter continues with her exclusive interview stating that her predicted box office success with Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has made her become a role model to kids around the world.
“It means the world to me. When kids come up to me, whether it’s at the airport, at events, or even just on the street, I feel so grateful to be a part of something they love. It’s such an honor to play a role in their lives through a franchise that brings so much joy. Not everyone gets the chance to be part of a global, successful series like this, and I never take it for granted,” she said.
“What really makes it special is how innocent and pure those interactions are. Kids are just in awe, and their excitement and connection to my character is so genuine. It’s a beautiful reminder of why I do what I do, and I truly cherish those moments.”
The 44-year-old concluded, “On top of that, seeing how proud Ella is of me because of the franchise is the best feeling ever. The way she looks at me with so much admiration makes me feel like the best mom in the world. It’s all such a blessing, and I’m so thankful to be part of it.”
Tika Sumpter’s journey proves that motherhood is just one of the many facets of her dynamic life. As an actress, producer, and entrepreneur, she continues to break barriers and redefine what it means to be a modern woman balancing both personal and professional ambitions.
Sumpter shares her eight-year-old daughter, Ellen-Loren, with husband, 42-year-old actor, Nicholas James Muscarella. To read Sumpter’s interview in its entirety, click here.
Photo: Tika Sumpter Instagram