Carly Rae Jepsen, the Canadian singer-songwriter known for hits like “Call Me Maybe,” has recently opened up about her evolving perspectives on life, love, and motherhood. Reflecting on her journey from a small town in Mission, British Columbia, to her current roles as a mother and artist, Jepsen described a period of introspection that challenged traditional expectations around relationships and family.
Jepsen revealed that, early in life, she questioned whether marriage and motherhood were paths she wanted to pursue. Growing up, she experienced what she called a “charming beginning,” including a partner who might have proposed if she had stayed. Yet, she felt an urge to pursue something different and undefined—an adventurous departure from the conventional “cookie-cutter” path. This theme is echoed in her music, including the track “16 and Often” from her latest album, which explores choosing a distinct life route.
Her 2022 album, *The Loneliest Time,* delves into her changing feelings about relationships, moving from casual encounters toward a desire for something safer and more stable. Jepsen described a process of personal growth marked by a willingness to embrace vulnerability, summarizing it as "signing up for life in a real way"—including saying yes to marriage and motherhood.
Jepsen’s relationship with filmmaker Cole Greif-Neill brought a new chapter to her life. Their son, Ilya, was born in March 2024, a name inspired by the Canadian hockey drama *Heated Rivalry.* The show’s creator, Jacob Tierney, has expressed interest in having Jepsen contribute a song to the series, though she remains noncommittal on the prospect. Jepsen described motherhood as “fascinating,” noting the daily changes in her son as he develops his own personality. She said Ilya is “a super chill baby,” whose calm demeanor has impressed fellow travelers during family trips.
Beyond music and family, Jepsen is involved in the adaptation of *10 Things I Hate About You,* the 1999 romantic comedy starring Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger. The new version centers on Stiles’s character, Cat Stratford, reimagined as a feminist and riot grrrl figure, exploring themes of women’s rage and empowerment. Jepsen expressed admiration for the talented cast and crew involved in the project and said she feels fortunate to be part of such a dynamic creative environment.
Despite her widespread recognition as a pop artist, Jepsen said it has taken time for her to fully internalize her own talent. While she has always been confident in her music, she acknowledged moments of shyness in collaborative settings. With a strong support network, she has grown more comfortable asserting herself in creative spaces.
Jepsen cites her latest album, *Day and Night (Continued),* as her favorite work to date. She characterized the album-making process as a liberating experience, noting that it reflects her most authentic self. The album is now available worldwide.