'I might slip up and have another child!'

Comedian Katherine Ryan on the challenges of being a busy mum and why her son might follow in her footsteps

- KENZI DEVINE

As Katherine Ryan juggles parenthood and a booming career, she is the first to admit that life can be hectic. But chatting with new, the Canadian-born comic explains why she’s taking the time to really enjoy being with her brood. “I’ve realised that life is so fleeting, which has made me appreciate those little moments with my kids so much more. Because those moments will be gone so quickly,” she says.

Katherine has children, Fred, two, and 15-month-old Fenna, with her husband and high school sweetheart Bobby Kootstra, who she married in 2019. Bobby was previously in broadcasting, but is now a proud stay-at-home dad. She’s also mum to 14-yearold Violet, who she raised on her own for almost a decade before reconnecting with Bobby.

Here, the 40-year-old shares how “bittersweet” it is watching your kids grow up, reveals why Bobby is the head chef at home — and opens up on whether more little ones are on the horizon…

Hi, Katherine! How are you juggling parenthood and a busy work life right now?

It’s so busy, my weeks go by too fast! I have no plans ever in my life for anything, I just panic, get it done, and panic again! Luckily I’m very calm but I’m also very disorganised with the babies and work. It’s fine though, we’re rolling with it. 

Are you starting to see Fred and Fenna’s personalities develop?