Kelly Brook has left mums fuming after claiming some working mothers use their sick kids as an ‘excuse’ to slack off at work.
The 38-year-old, who has no children of her own, sparked a fierce debate during an appearance on Loose Women on Monday, which saw the panel discuss whether it is a mother’s job to look after their sick children.
But Kelly admitted that she prefers to not hear about her colleagues' kids, as she thinks it’s more ‘professional’ to just get on with the job.
Kelly said: ‘I have a pet hate, and I don't have children so I don't always understand, but I do work with some women that if they can't make an appointment or can't do something, or there is a deadline, some people will always say "oh it's because I have to wash the baby" or "feed the kids" or "I've got to do the school run".
‘Others have kids and you never even hear about the kids. They are very professional and I love that.'
'I just think women shouldn't use kids as an excuse not to do their job properly. I think it's nobody's business. If you can't meet the demands of your job, don't blame your kids.’
She added: ‘I have just been in situations with parents, where they have got to do the school run or something.
'They know they have to do the school run, they know they have to put the kids to bed, so wouldn't you figure your career out around those things?'
But her comments did not sit well with viewers, with many suggesting she had ‘no idea’ of the demands of being a working parent.
One furious mum posted on Twitter: ‘Kelly Brook has absolutely no idea, how can she even comment without having kids. Just wait until you do Kelly. THEN you will realise how hard it is’.
Another said: ‘Kelly the expert on trying to be a parent and juggle a career. How many kids does she have again?’
A third added: ‘Maybe Kelly Brook should try being a working mum before she comments.’
And a fourth raged: ‘Kelly Brook is talking out of her a**e! Some women may not have support at home so can't always meet the 'demands' of their job! Stop being a judgemental d***head and saying women 'use' their kids as an excuse!!’
Following the backlash, Kelly took to her own account to defend her views and said she never wanted ‘to upset anyone’.
She said: ‘It’s a debate show so I don’t expect everyone to agree with my opinions and that’s ok @loosewomen however my intention is never to upset anyone.
‘I work with a lot of working Mamas and they are all professional amazing women and never moan.
‘They get on with it. I applaud them.’
