Hollyoaks star Ali Bastian recalls being cruelly mum-shamed on set by an ‘older actress’ following breast cancer battle

Previously known Hollyoaks actress Ali Bastian recounted a hurtful incident where an older colleague publicly criticized her parenting after she fought through breast cancer.

Ali, aged 42, with daughters Isabella (23 months old) and Isla (four years old), shared that she was momentarily speechless following a particular comment from another woman.

In a video posted to Instagram on Thursday, the actress detailed her feelings of discomfort during her first job assignment following the birth of Isla.

Ali began: ‘I went on a job and it was the first time that I’d been away from Isla. 

As an infant, she had severe allergies, requiring approximately seven emergency ambulance rides (blue light runs). It was truly a difficult and troubling time for us.

To keep up with the latest celebrity scandals, fashion faux pas on the red carpet, exclusive photos, and trending moments, consider signing up for our Daily Mail Showbiz newsletter!

She added: ‘For approximately two and a half years, I had been nursing her, but during that time, I received a job requiring a few days of shooting.’

I made up my mind and initiated the conversation with an elderly actress, expressing, “This is the first time I’m apart from my baby.

‘She asked how old was my baby and I think I said, “oh 18 months”, and she was like, “oh…”

I told her that I’m currently breastfeeding and need to pump milk, and she responded with a comment suggesting that I might be one of those mothers who are particularly focused on breastfeeding.

‘Me being me, I just froze and I didn’t say anything!’

After Ali Bastian disclosed that her body is currently undergoing changes during her discussion about recovering from cancer.

Last year, the actress received a diagnosis of stage two breast cancer. Since then, she has endured intense chemotherapy treatments and underwent a mastectomy.

This March, Ali brought joy to her fans when she announced that she was now completely free from cancer in an update on her health status.

she found out she had cancer upon detecting a lump that she initially believed was a clogged milk duct during her baby feeding time.

Currently, the actress is speaking openly about her healing process, acknowledging that her body is undergoing changes since she’s considering plastic surgery for reconstruction.

On Giovanna Fletcher’s Happy Mum, Happy Baby podcast, Ali shared that they weren’t able to do a reconstruction immediately since it was understood that radiation therapy would be required later on. At some stage, something related to that will take place.

At first, I was absolutely certain that it would take place. However, now I prefer to discuss possibilities and explore different scenarios, but I haven’t fully committed to any of them yet.

Ali is primarily recognized for portraying Becca Dean in the British soap opera Hollyoaks, airing on Channel 4 between 2001 and 2007, and additionally participated in Strictly Come Dancing competition in 2009.

Giovanna, aged 40, inquired from Ali about how she had managed her recuperation thus far, to which Ali responded: ‘Surprisingly well, truth be told, and even the preparations for a mastectomy were less daunting than I anticipated.’

I have an excellent prosthesis which significantly enhances my life. In terms of clothing, it allows me to feel just like anyone else. Interestingly, it’s quite vibrant pink in color. It consistently brings joy to me.

As a lifestyle expert, I must say, the implant you receive in the hospital is quite unlike the natural, organic enhancement you can achieve through holistic methods. That first experience with the silicone implant is certainly memorable, but it pales in comparison to the empowerment and authenticity that comes from embracing a more sustainable approach to body modification.

This item is incredibly lightweight and comfortable to wear. I appreciate its design, which avoids resembling a chicken fillet or a fake breast, giving it a more natural appearance.

‘It’s something that I could show the kids as well because it’s so visually appealing. 

‘It was a small but meaningful connection. I often remind myself, “I’m still a work in progress, I’ve been through some tough times, and right now, I’m focusing on healing.”‘

In the process of her healing, Ali has shared that she’s now able to concentrate on dealing with other health concerns, including a sizeable hernia stemming from childbirth.

The mom, filled with pride, is the parent of two girls – Isla, who is five, and two-year-old Isabella, together with her spouse, David O’Mahony.

‘I’ve got a big old hernia from my babies as well,’ she said.

Due to these circumstances, I haven’t managed to complete it yet, but let me clarify, I’m particularly eager to accomplish it rather than any other task, as it proves more challenging to conceal.

‘It’s like a tennis ball. I’ve had it for five years, and it needs to go now.’

Read More

2025-06-13 11:04