Israeli Actress Chen Amsalem Discusses Motherhood, Career, and Identity in New Interview
Israeli actress Chen Amsalem recently shared insights into her life as a mother of three and her career in an interview with LaIsha magazine. Three months ago, she gave birth to her youngest son, Troy, joining her older children, Lav, age seven, and Hiro, age four. Amsalem described the challenges and joys of motherhood, emphasizing the constant demands on a mother despite available help, and the unique strength it requires. She credited her partner Maor for supporting her by taking the older children to activities while she cares for the baby.
Amsalem explained her choice of the name Troy, inspired by the ancient city and symbolizing bravery, despite some public criticism and jokes linking it to a local event hall. She expressed frustration over negative comments about her children’s names, which she feels sometimes affect her emotionally. She also reflected on her upbringing in Afula, a peripheral Israeli city, which she credits for shaping her identity, accent, and acting roles, and expressed pride in her roots despite others’ dismissive attitudes.
Discussing her children, Amsalem described Lav as her mirror and noted the challenge of balancing the mother-daughter relationship with appropriate boundaries. She revealed that Hiro helped her overcome postpartum depression and become the mother she aspired to be. Professionally, she is preparing for an August theatrical production of "Around the World in 80 Days" at the toMix Theater, playing an Indian princess. She balances her acting career with motherhood through support from babysitters and family.
Amsalem also spoke about her attachment to Israel, stating she cannot imagine living abroad and feels safest and most at home in her country. She acknowledged the reality of military service for her sons and hopes they excel in sports. She admitted struggling to disconnect from her phone when with her children but values gratitude and protection from the "evil eye." Looking ahead, she aspires to write a TV series and develop business ventures, seeing herself as a role model beyond acting.
The full interview will appear in the latest issue of LaIsha magazine.
