In the world of acting, where careers can be demanding and schedules are often unpredictable, finding a balance between work and family life is no easy feat. But for Jack Ashton, the star of 'Call the Midwife' and father to two young daughters, Ivy and Wren, it's a delicate dance he's learned to master. In an exclusive interview, Jack opens up about the challenges and rewards of co-parenting with his ex-partner and fellow actor, Helen George, while navigating the demanding world of theatre.
A Rule for the Road
One of the key strategies Jack and Helen have employed is setting clear boundaries for their careers. They've established a golden rule: every other job must be based near home. This approach ensures that their daughters are never left out in the cold, and it allows them to maintain a strong presence in their children's lives. Jack explains, "I won't be going on tour for a little bit; that's basically the rule. After a play or after a tour, the next will be something that allows me to be at home and then travel from home."
This rule is not just about convenience; it's about making sure that their daughters are always a priority. Jack emphasizes, "Every decision has to be weighed up. If it's going to cause too much stress, then you have to say no, because at the end of the day, the kids come first."
The Feasibility of Feasting and Faming
Co-parenting in the acting industry is a unique challenge. Jack notes that when one parent is working, the other must step up to the plate, and vice versa. "Helen and I co-parent; we both do it, as in we both work in the industry, for the girls, it's feast or famine when you're working; it's full-on. But there are periods in between jobs, and they get a lot of you; you're there, you're there for everything, and that's great."
This dynamic can be difficult to manage, but Jack believes that the industry is changing. "I think the industry is changing quite a bit, you know, people are a bit more, I've noticed it in theatre. They are a lot more accommodating."
The Joys and Challenges of Fatherhood
For Jack, fatherhood is the most important role he's ever played. "[Being a dad] it's been the best thing that's ever happened to me. I don't wanna be too cliché, but before kids, most days you're thinking: 'What have I got to do, what do I need to achieve? What's on my agenda? And then you have children, and your agenda is firmly out the window, and their agenda is the most important thing."
Jack's love for his daughters is evident in his words. "It helps you to grow as a human being, and I love being a dad. I can't tell you how much I enjoy it. Of course, it's exhausting sometimes or whatever, but I just love nurturing two little people and trying my best to give them everything, and that's including the things that I wish I had."
Looking Ahead
As Jack embarks on his latest role in the UK tour of 'Our Man in Havana', he's mindful of the impact it will have on his daughters. "I'm hoping that they do seem to enjoy hanging around backstage, and they help out, and they help the stage managers. Hopefully, it will be nice memories for them."
In the end, Jack's journey is a testament to the power of love and commitment. By setting clear boundaries, co-parenting with his ex-partner, and prioritizing his daughters, he's found a way to balance his career and family life. As he continues to navigate the challenges and rewards of fatherhood, Jack's story serves as an inspiration to all those who strive to find harmony between work and family.
