Rita Ora has opened up about the meaningful experiences she shares as part of a blended family, highlighting Taika Waititi’s stepfather role and family dynamics since their marriage in 2022. Speaking recently, the pop star described her close bond with Waititi’s daughters and the unique journey of building relationships in their combined household.
Building Connections as a Stepmother
Since marrying Oscar-winning director Taika Waititi, Rita Ora has formed a strong connection with his two daughters from his previous marriage to Chelsea Winstanley: Te Hinekahu and Matewa Kiritapu. Ora recounted her approach to stepmotherhood with lively affection, eager to embrace her evolving responsibilities in the new family setting. Her bond with the girls has flourished through shared experiences, including memorable outings and intentional efforts to create a welcoming atmosphere.
“It is so fun. I just have the best time with them,”
—Rita Ora, pop star
She joyfully described her playful approach:
“I’m, like, the fairy godmother [who] gives them all the sugar and all the ice cream, and then sends them back, and their mother, who I love dearly, is like, ‘They’re bouncing off the walls.’”
—Rita Ora, pop star
Ora believes that having the freedom to be spontaneous is a delightful part of being a stepmom, sharing experiences such as attending an Ed Sheeran concert and even allowing the girls to meet the singer. She reflected on the privilege of providing these special moments.
“I think that’s the fun part of being a stepmom, like, you can do those naughty things. I take them out, and I took them to an Ed Sheeran concert. They met Ed Sheeran, like, I was giving it all to these kids!”
—Rita Ora, pop star
Nurturing a Healthy Family Dynamic
As the connection deepened with her stepdaughters, Ora emphasized a focus on safety, trust, and open communication. She consciously worked to ensure that the girls felt secure and cherished in her presence, all while respecting the boundaries between parents.
“I cared about making them comfortable and safe,”
—Rita Ora, pop star
She highlighted the importance of fostering a supportive environment, appreciating the evolving relationship as the girls grow—one now a teenager, leading to new ways of staying connected.
“I wanted them to feel safe around me. I love my partner so much, so it was just about creating a great environment for these kids to thrive, and now one’s a teenager and she’s got her phone. We’re, like, texting. It’s so cool and she’s like, ‘Hey, miss you.’ I’m like, ‘Hey, girl, miss you too.’ It’s such a healthy [relationship].”
—Rita Ora, pop star
Expressing how fortunate she feels, Ora shared,
“I’m very lucky. I’ve got great stepkids, like, these girls are just the coolest kids ever.”
—Rita Ora, pop star
Gratitude for Trust and Co-Parenting
Integral to this positive blended family arrangement is Ora’s respect for Chelsea Winstanley. She acknowledged the trust required to welcome a stepparent into children’s lives and the various facets involved in navigating new roles and dynamics.
“I appreciate it, and to have that space to let me hang out with her kids,”
—Rita Ora, pop star
Without formal guidelines to follow, Ora has leaned on her instincts, mindful of her role with both the girls and their mother.
“I mean, I didn’t get a book. There was no one teaching me how to be a stepmom, but there’s a lot you’re navigating. You, as a stepmom, what does that mean? You with the kids. You with the mother, [and] understanding the dynamic. I’m not a professional, but I definitely feel like I was lucky and I did it the right way.”
—Rita Ora, pop star
Looking Ahead: Family Life and Aspirations
The joys of being a stepmother are amplified, Ora shared, by the love she receives from Waititi’s daughters, noting how rewarding the relationships have become. She described the significance of a single gesture:
“just give [her] that one hug.”
—Rita Ora, pop star
Ora also addressed questions about the possibility of expanding the family she shares with Waititi, especially as their partnership grows creatively and personally. She expressed her enthusiasm for continuing her path in film and music alongside her supportive husband.
“I want to do a lot more movies. I love film, and I think my husband’s really become a big part of that for me,”
—Rita Ora, pop star
She outlined her dreams for the future:
“More movies, a lovely, great album, a great tour, and then maybe a family. We’ll see how we feel.”
—Rita Ora, pop star
As she considers the idea of having children with Waititi, Ora acknowledged the need to balance work commitments and her personal life. She mentioned an ongoing desire to “time it right,” though she is aware of the unpredictability involved.
“Everyone tells me, ‘You can’t time these things,’”
—Rita Ora, pop star
While she has been occupied with professional pursuits, family remains very much on her mind. She admitted,
“I haven’t really thought about it, that’s the trust. I’ve been so focused on working, but my mother recently reminded me, and I was like, ‘Oh, yeah, I think when the time is right.’ But it’s something that I can see happening.”
—Rita Ora, pop star
The Impact of a Modern Blended Family
Rita Ora’s insights into Taika Waititi’s stepfather role and family life highlight the care and joy she brings to her relationships with his daughters, the mutual trust between all adults involved, and her openness about the possibilities ahead. The evolving story of their blended family sets an example of intentional, compassionate co-parenting, and illustrates how shared commitment and affection can shape a warm family environment for everyone involved.
