Octomom

In the trailer for her upcoming biopic, Natalie “Nadya” Suleman, commonly known as Octomom, shares with viewers, “You may believe you know me as Octomom, but there’s much more to my story that you don’t know.”

Kristen Lee Gutoskie, the actress playing her in the movie titled “I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story“, which airs on Lifetime March 8, recalls the numerous headlines about the mother of 14 from the late noughties. However, she clarifies that she didn’t have any preconceived notions when deciding to portray her in the film.

When asked by TopMob News’ Francesca Amiker during an exclusive interview, Gutoskie stated, “No, honestly. I just remembered, ‘Oh yeah, that’s the woman who had many children.’ I only recalled the pictures I saw back then, but I didn’t pay much attention to the details.”

Indeed, her life became a public spectacle. In January 2009, she gained worldwide attention after giving birth to octuplets, all conceived via in vitro fertilization, making her family grow from six children to sixteen. Over time, Natalie and Dr. Michael Kamrava, who transferred twelve embryos to Natalie in 2008 and had his medical license revoked by the California Medical Board three years later, faced intense criticism. The scrutiny included concerns about her ability to financially support her large family, accusations of seeking fame, and reports of her 2012 stay at a rehab center.

As she expressed in the Lifetime film, “At one point, I was one of the most disliked individuals in America.

Kristen was intrigued to uncover the truth behind the tabloid stories and paparazzi shots about this woman, who is often depicted on magazine covers. She expressed this during an interview with TopMob News, saying, “As I began delving into her life and story, I realized there’s a lot more to her than what meets the eye—lots of tabloid stories, lots of intriguing details.” Essentially, she had heard about the woman before but didn’t know all the specifics. So, it was like getting a fresh perspective on her life, without any preconceived notions.

To get ready for her role, Kristen studied online videos of Natalie’s past interviews beforehand as that was the only material she had access to initially. During filming, Kristen found the more intimate scenes particularly challenging since she needed to grasp Natalie’s personal experiences.

In the later stages of production, Kristen got her hands on Natalie’s unpublished manuscript. Although Natalie serves as an executive producer for “I Was Octomom” and collaborated with scriptwriter Kelly Fullerton, she wasn’t present during the film shoot. Consequently, Kristen didn’t have a chance to talk to Natalie until more recently.

Kristen expressed her relief upon finally speaking with Natalie, who was delighted with the portrayal and felt well-represented. Natalie even complimented Kristen on her performance, stating that no one else could have played this part. Kristen admitted she was nervous about meeting Natalie because she wanted to ensure she did justice to a real person.

The movie is released sixteen years following Natalie becoming a mother to octuplets named Noah, Maliyah, Isaiah, Nariyah, Jonah, Makai, Josiah, and Jeremiah. These new siblings join her older children Elijah (23), Amerah (22), Joshua (21), Aidan (19), and twins Calyssa and Caleb (18).

The reason for sharing her story now? As Kristen put it, “Her kids are grown now. I managed to have a short conversation with her eldest son Elijah on the phone, which was great because her children matter greatly to me, and I want to ensure they’re happy. Back then, when they were young, she was approached for shows and possibly reality series. However, she declined due to them not being able to express their own wishes. Now that they’re older, both she and her kids can voice their experiences and perspectives, offering insights into why she made certain decisions and where they stand today.

In truth, Kristen—having given birth to her first child, a son, in June 2023—remarked that she and Natalie could relate through their common bond as mothers. “She’s a person, fundamentally a mother, and evidently an excellent one,” she added. “Her children, numbering 14, are flourishing, admirable, intelligent, and beautiful. Consequently, yes, I connected with her. We spoke extensively about various topics, especially motherhood. I believe that becoming a mother myself lately has been instrumental in my ability to portray this character. I may not necessarily agree that being a mother is essential for playing a mother; however, it certainly helped me grasp her.”

Kristen also expressed hope that viewers would be receptive to seeing a different side of Natalie—who became a grandmother last year—than what they might read online. “Everyone is a multifaceted individual, and there’s far more to every person than just the headlines,” Kristen stated. “Natalie has shared numerous experiences and choices in the film that you may not have witnessed in public view. Thus, indeed, there’s more to everyone beyond what is portrayed in the media. And also, we can triumph over any obstacle, and family serves as a powerful force to propel us forward.”

“I Was Octomom: The Natalie Suleman Story” is set to air on Lifetime March 8 at 8 p.m. EST, followed by the docuseries “Confessions of Octomom” March 10. For now, take a look at photos that Natalie has shared of her family throughout the years.

In March 2025, Nadya Suleman, affectionately known as Natalie, marveled at her first grandchild reaching the six-month milestone, sharing heartwarming photos on Instagram. She penned, “I can hardly believe our little angel has grown to be 6 months old!” The cherished baby girl is the offspring of Natalie’s son, Joshua. “Your enchanting, sweet smile brings infinite joy to our hearts,” she continued. “I love you beyond what words can convey. We are all immensely grateful to witness your daily growth and prosperity.”

Quoting from the beloved children’s book Love You Forever, Natalie expressed her enduring affection: “I will always love you. I will forever cherish you As long as I live My grandchild, you will be mine.

Natalie expressed her gratitude to Noah, Nariyah, Jonah, and Isaiah for their diligent effort and commitment in the kitchen during Thanksgiving 2024. She conveyed this appreciation through a post on Instagram, praising their plant-based dishes as healthy, wholesome, nutritious, compassionate, and delicious. The family felt appreciative and blessed by their culinary skills.

2024’s Halloween saw the mother of 14 reminiscing with a flashback picture featuring herself and several of her children, all donned in their costumes from 2015.

In September of 2024, Natalie shared the joyous news that her son Joshua and his wife had given birth to their first child. She expressed her gratitude on Instagram, saying “Thank you God for this wonderful blessing bestowed upon my family!” The new arrival was warmly welcomed as an addition to the family, with Natalie expressing her excitement to watch her granddaughter grow. The baby girl is already deeply loved and cherished. [8/30/24] represents the birthdate of the child.

On my extraordinary 49th birthday in July 2024, as my little ones beamed for the camera, I couldn’t help but sneak in a heartfelt wish. In the spirit of this joyous occasion, I took to Instagram and penned down, “Thank you, my dears, for making my special day even more memorable!” Love, your ever-grateful mom.

In November 2023, Jonah, Nariyah, Noah, and Jeremiah were in charge of preparing the family’s vegan meal for Native American Heritage Day. Natalie shared on Instagram: ‘A belated Thanksgiving greeting and a warm Native American Heritage Day wish! A big thank you to our talented chefs who put their heart and soul into creating scrumptious dishes for us all. Your hard work is recognized, and we are grateful for your delectable creations. We hope everyone had a safe and joyous time surrounded by loved ones!’

Mom took Amerah and Calyssa out for ramen (vegan, of course) in August 2023.

In lieu of 48 candles, the kids brought balloons for their mom’s birthday in July 2023.

Natalie’s eldest daughter Amerah celebrated her 21st birthday in July 2023.

The two enjoyed a mother daughter movie night in July 2023.

Celebrating the sweet 16th birthday of my extraordinary twins, Caleb and Calyssa! On Instagram in October 2022, Natalie wrote, ‘Couldn’t be more different, yet equally remarkable.’

Calyssa, your kindness, empathy, intelligence, beauty, and talent are truly inspiring. I am incredibly proud to call you my daughter and believe that you will conquer any goal you pursue as long as you remain tenacious. Your mental strength, determination, and perseverance are admirable, and I feel blessed to be your mom.

Caleb, your compassion, wit, intelligence, humor, and dedication make you an exceptional young man. I am grateful to have you as my son, and I trust that God will continue to bless you both abundantly.

In August 2022, Natalie congratulated her octuplets as they began eighth grade. On Instagram, she shared a photo of them on their first day of school and wrote, “Well done, kids! Be kind, considerate, and helpful to everyone – your peers, teachers, and staff. You are fantastic examples for the 6th and 7th graders. I love you.” She also addressed any doubters by explaining that her older children didn’t want a picture posted on their first day, and she respected their wishes.

The family loves their fur babies too.

Showing off a cat and crafts on the couch.

Maliyah and Nariyah were a coordinated sister act.

The Sulemans are a cat family, so Maliyah took the opportunity to do some dog-sitting.

On the occasion of his 21st birthday in 2022, Natalie shared a unique, latest photo of her eldest son, Elijah, on her social media account as a tribute.

On Mother’s Day, I am far from alone – surrounded by my precious octuplets and our big sister Amerah, making the day a truly special celebration in 2022.

Natalie posted on Instagram in January 2021, wishing her eight incredibly kind, considerate, and respectful kids a very happy 12th birthday. Their genuine care for all creatures and selfless service embody love itself. They fill my heart with joy and have enriched our lives immensely. It’s a privilege to be your mother.

Noah and Jonah got ready to dig in.

The Suleman octuplets enjoyed baked goods on their 14th birthday.

In a photograph their mother posted, Joshua, sporting a short-term facial tattoo, and his elder brother Eli were all set for departure, ready to soar.

Looking back at this old picture, Natalie mused about how Makai had acted as a protective guide for Aidan since the very beginning.

Getting eight children to line up and smile for a pic sounds like a Christmas miracle to us.

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2025-03-08 16:19