Halle Bailey recently shared insights into her decision to keep her pregnancy and the birth of her first child, son Halo, away from the public eye.
At the 2024 Black Women in Hollywood Awards, Bailey, honored among other notable figures, delivered a heartfelt speech explaining her choice to shield her personal life from public scrutiny. She emphasized the intensified spotlight on Black women in entertainment, acknowledging the challenges it entails. Bailey expressed, “We are Black women in entertainment, and although we signed up for the challenges of the spotlight, in this current climate, that spotlight burns brighter, hotter, and uninterrupted, whereas the scrutiny of its magnification leaves no concealment.”
Bailey’s decision to keep her pregnancy private became evident when she shared the news of Halo’s arrival on Instagram in January, introducing him to the world with a tender caption alongside a photo of his hand. Reflecting on her journey, Bailey acknowledged the transformative impact of her role in “The Little Mermaid” on her career but emphasized that motherhood surpassed any professional achievement. She affirmed, “Even though we’re a few days into the new year, the greatest thing that 2023 could have done for me, was bring me my son. Welcome to the world my halo.”
During her acceptance speech at the 2024 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood awards, Bailey delved deeper into her decision, sharing personal convictions and societal concerns. She spoke of the immense joy of motherhood and the necessity to protect her family from relentless public scrutiny. Bailey stated, “What was one of the biggest highlights of my life, and to be real one of the biggest challenges too, cannot compare to the biggest joy of my life. And that was becoming a mom to my perfect little angel Halo.”
The actress highlighted the criticism she faced but remained resolute in her decision, particularly in light of the ongoing challenges to women’s reproductive rights. She asserted, “With the state of the world and the place it is in with men trying to force their will on our bodies, no one on social media, and for damn sure, no one on the planet, was going to tell me what to do with my body or what to share with the world.”
Bailey expressed gratitude to Black women for their unwavering support throughout her career and pregnancy journey. She acknowledged their role in providing strength and solidarity, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective empowerment. Bailey concluded, “So standing here today with all of you, not just as an actress but as a woman and now as a mom—I am clearer now more than ever what it means to be in this room.” She expressed her appreciation for the love and support within the community, affirming, “The colossal love and support in this room held me up and continues to give me strength. You have my back. You told the world ‘she is ours and we are hers. Don’t mess with us.’ And I am so grateful for that.”