Reality television personality Luisa Zissman revealed that her daughter, Indigo, has refused to return to school after teachers and classmates viewed a podcast episode in which Zissman criticized Indigo's role in the school play.
Zissman, known for her appearance on "The Apprentice," shared the incident on her podcast, "LuAnna," with co-host Anna Williamson. She recounted Indigo's distressed reaction upon learning about her mother's comments. "Mummy, did you say my play was s**t?" Indigo reportedly asked her mother. Zissman admitted to her daughter that the play was "not that good" and that Indigo did not have a main part.
The situation escalated when Indigo informed her mother that a friend's mother had seen a clip of the podcast on Instagram, which was then shared with Indigo. "My friend told me," Indigo said. She expressed a fear of returning to school, stating, "I can't ever go back to that school now. It's good that we've got to go back to Dubai because I won't be able to go back to that school, because the teachers all watched that."
Zissman had previously stated her intention not to attend the performance of "Mary Poppins," citing a busy schedule and Indigo's non-speaking ensemble role. She described the part as "s**tty" and "not worth your time going" because it was hot and Indigo only sang in a bonnet. Zissman also mentioned skipping another daughter's woodwind recital due to her dislike of the instrument's sound.
Her remarks generated significant backlash from other parents online. Many expressed that showing up for a child's event, regardless of the size of their role, is important for the child's sense of support and validation. Critics argued that Zissman's attitude prioritized her own convenience over her daughter's emotional needs.
However, some social media users found Zissman's candor relatable, with a few applauding her for voicing sentiments they have also experienced. Love Island winner Cara Delahoyde responded with laughing emojis.
Zissman later clarified in the podcast's comments section that she did attend the play for a brief period, leaving to take work calls before returning for the end of the performance. Zissman is married to Andrew Collins and they have two daughters, Esme and Clemmie. She also has an older daughter, Dixie, from a previous marriage.