Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo: ‘Our new reality show leaves nothing out’
Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo: ‘Our new reality show leaves nothing out’
Jamie Laing and Sophie Habboo have always embraced transparency, from their early days on Made in Chelsea to their current project, Raising Chelsea. The couple’s journey has been a blend of public and private moments, with their relationship consistently under the spotlight. Now, they are taking that openness to the next level by documenting their transition into parenthood in a three-part documentary.
Their story began on Made in Chelsea, where their dynamic evolved into the NearlyWeds podcast after engagement, and later became NewlyWeds following their marriage. This new series, Raising Chelsea, captures their experiences as they navigate pregnancy, childbirth, and the challenges of early parenthood. For many, the idea of broadcasting such intimate moments—including the birth of their child—would seem extreme. Yet for Laing and Habboo, it feels like a natural extension of their existing connection with their audience.
“Audiences have grown accustomed to following our journey,” Habboo shares. “Recording this chapter felt like a continuation of that bond.” The duo opted for a minimalist filming approach, using only one camera to mimic a vlog style. This method meant they often forgot the cameras were present, allowing interactions to feel spontaneous. “I’d forget they were there,” Habboo explains. “Arguments would unfold naturally, and I’d only think about it afterward.” Laing adds that this choice was deliberate, as a traditional multi-camera setup could feel artificial.
“Three cameras and a studio setup feel forced,” Laing says. “We wanted everything to feel genuine, even when things got intense.” The couple’s commitment to authenticity led them to include every moment, even those that might seem unfiltered. “There’s nothing off limits,” he reflects. “I don’t want a version of ourselves that’s been polished. Real life includes all the highs and lows.”
While Laing pushes for full transparency, Habboo admits to moments of caution. “There are times when I think, ‘I’m not doing this,’ ” she says. “Jamie insists on keeping everything in, which can be overwhelming.” Their differing perspectives—Habboo’s instinct for privacy versus Laing’s openness—add depth to the series. “I wanted to present my best side when we started the podcast,” Habboo notes. “But Jamie made sure every episode included the raw details, which was terrifying at first.”
Despite the initial hesitations, the couple found the feedback from viewers to be overwhelmingly positive. “People felt connected, like they weren’t alone,” Habboo says. “That’s why we chose this style—because authenticity is rare these days.” Laing acknowledges the risks of such exposure, stating that “thick skin is essential” for reality TV. While he has grown accustomed to the scrutiny, Habboo admits she is still learning to balance vulnerability with privacy.
As they prepare to share their story, the couple is ready to face whatever comes next. “Even when things get tough, we keep it real,” Laing says. “That’s what makes it authentic.” Habboo, meanwhile, jokes about the comments they’ve received, including one that compared her appearance to an Afghan hound. “People question my eyebrows,” she says. “They’ll have more to say when they see me pregnant.” The documentary promises to reveal both the joy and the discomfort of their new chapter, capturing life as it is.