Jenna Dewan Balances Mom Life and TV Fame: 'We Just Stay Calm and Carry On'

The 'Rookie' star opens up about finding calm in the chaos of raising three kids while starring on a hit TV show.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:55pm

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An extreme close-up photograph showcasing the luxurious, shimmering textures of high-end fabrics in deep, jewel-toned colors, conceptually representing the glamour and style of Hollywood celebrity.The vibrant textures and high-fashion glamour of Jenna Dewan's acting career provide a striking contrast to the down-to-earth realities of her busy family life.Chicago Today

Actress Jenna Dewan, star of the hit ABC series 'The Rookie', gets candid about the challenges of balancing her busy career and family life. Between filming, raising her three children, and planning a wedding, Dewan relies on staying positive and leaning on her fiancé Steve Kazee to get through the chaos. She shares how she's learned to prioritize her family while also pursuing her acting dreams.

Why it matters

Dewan's story resonates with many working parents who struggle to juggle the demands of their careers and home life. Her openness about the realities of motherhood in Hollywood provides an inspiring example of how to find balance and stay grounded amidst the pressures of fame.

The details

Dewan, 45, is mom to three kids - daughter Everly, 12, from her previous marriage to Channing Tatum, and son Callum, 6, and daughter Rhiannon, 22 months, with her fiancé Steve Kazee. Despite her busy schedule filming 'The Rookie', Dewan makes her family her 'number one priority.' She frequently shares glimpses into her home life on social media, posting about her kids' activities like cheerleading and Irish dance. Dewan jokes that she and Kazee 'did it a little backwards' by having kids before marriage, but she wouldn't change a thing. The actress credits Kazee's 'grounding' presence as key to helping her manage the chaos. When unexpected challenges arise, like a recent wardrobe mishap in New York, Dewan tries to stay calm and positive, telling herself 'it's all going to work out.' She's grateful to be starring on 'The Rookie', which films in her hometown of Los Angeles, after previously having to travel back and forth to Chicago for another show, which was 'really hard' with the kids.

  • Dewan agreed to a guest spot on 'The Rookie' in 2021.
  • Dewan was later asked to return as a series regular, which she says was 'the easiest, fastest yes I've ever given'.
  • 'The Rookie' is now in its eighth season and has found a devoted fanbase on social media.

The players

Jenna Dewan

A 45-year-old actress starring as firefighter Bailey Nune on the hit ABC series 'The Rookie'. She is also a mother of three children and engaged to actor Steve Kazee.

Steve Kazee

Dewan's 50-year-old fiancé, whom she first met when he was starring on Broadway. Kazee's 'grounding' presence helps Dewan manage the chaos of her busy career and family life.

Channing Tatum

Dewan's ex-husband, with whom she shares daughter Everly.

Nathan Fillion

The lead star of 'The Rookie', with whom Dewan's character Bailey Nune has a romantic storyline.

Everly

Dewan's 12-year-old daughter from her previous marriage to Channing Tatum.

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What they’re saying

“I've learned that when things go a little nuts, it's all going to work out. At least I say that to myself over and over to put myself in a peaceful mindset.”

— Jenna Dewan, Actress

“I am most definitely forcing her into ballet class because it's so cute. Until she starts telling me what she likes, we're going to do a little ballet.”

— Jenna Dewan, Actress

“There's always been a little something mystical to the two of us. There was a real meant-to-be feeling.”

— Jenna Dewan, Actress

What’s next

Dewan and her fiancé Steve Kazee have not yet set a date for their wedding, as they are 'being really in the moment and happy' with their current engagement.

The takeaway

Jenna Dewan's story highlights the challenges and joys of balancing a high-profile acting career with the responsibilities of motherhood. Her openness about leaning on her partner, prioritizing family time, and staying positive in the face of chaos provides an inspiring example for working parents.