British singer Lily Allen, revealed on her podcast Miss Me? that she has had multiple abortions—“I can’t remember exactly how many”—suggesting the number is around four or five. Find out more in the article below.
How Many? “A Few,” Says Lily
Allen adapted the lyrics of Frank Sinatra’s My Way: “Abortions I’ve had a few … but then again I can’t remember exactly how many.” She estimates she’s had “like, four or five,” with Oliver confirming a similar number. The open exchange was heartfelt: “I’m so happy I can say that and you can say it and no one came to shoot us down, no judgment”
From “Romantic” to Practical Decision
Lily recalled one early abortion being financed by the father, whom she saw at the time as “romantic.” Over time, she reinterpreted the situation. “No, I don’t think it’s generous or romantic,” she said. “Think about that investment… 500 quid. Kids are a lot more expensive.” This shift reflects her view of abortion as a financially responsible and real-world decision.
Challenging the Stigma Around Abortion
Both Lily and Miquita criticized the stigma women face about abortion. Oliver said she felt embarrassed about having more than one abortion, asking, “Why the f*** should I be ashamed?” Allen pushed back against the need to justify terminations. She warned that calling for “extraordinary reasons” plays into anti-abortion messaging, insisting that “I don’t want a f***ing baby right now” is reason enough.
Impact on Career and Parenthood
During the revealing chat, Lily discussed how motherhood has affected her stardom: while her daughters, Ethel (12) and Marnie (11), fulfill her personally, they have “ruined” opportunities in pop culture. She described feeling frustrated when she hears “you can have it all,” asserting that, in her experience, balancing pop fame and parenting has impossible tradeoffs
Reflecting on Her Own Childhood
The singer reflected on her upbringing, saying her childhood was marred by her mother’s busy career, which left the family lacking support systems. “Did it have an effect on us as children? Yes it did … it was pretty painful at the time,” she said. She noted that today, the communal support once taken for granted is far less available.
Relationship Updates
Allen is also navigating shifts in her personal life. After splitting from actor David Harbour in December 2024, she is reportedly dating British actor James Norton—they were photographed kissing at London’s Lido Festival two weeks ago. The bittersweet transition has influenced her reflections on relationships and self-worth.
Why This Conversation Matters
Lily Allen’s frank podcast revelation invites us to rethink how society discusses abortion. By normalizing the experience—no extraordinary justification, just personal choice—she dismantles shame and empowers women to own their narratives. Her openness connects deeply in a cultural moment still grappling with reproductive rights debates.
Final Takeaway
Lily Allen’s bold honesty—from candid numbers to emotional implications—offers a refreshing perspective in the public dialogue around abortion. She emphasizes that it’s okay not to have a baby, and that making informed, personal decisions matters. In doing so, she uplifts others wrestling with similar choices and shines a light on the strength found in speaking openly about reproduction.
