Chef Jordi Cruz: Having children gives meaning to second stage of life

Jordi Cruz, the Michelin-starred Spanish chef and television personality, has sparked debate after stating that people "have to have children" even if they do not desire them, because parenthood provides meaning to the later phase of life. Source: abc.es, lavanguardia.com

The statement

In two separate podcast interviews, Cruz said: "Hay que tener hijos, aunque no te guste" (You have to have children, even if you don't like it) and "Le da mucho sentido a una segunda etapa de la vida" (It gives a lot of meaning to a second stage of life) Source: abc.es. He acknowledged that his wife, Rebecca Lima, "obliged" him to become a father, saying "A mí me obligó mi mujer" Source: abc.es. He described himself as "muy bien mandado" (very obedient) within the relationship Source: lavanguardia.com.

Nuance and context

Despite the strong wording, Cruz later clarified that while having children is "very necessary," it is "not obligatory" Source: lavanguardia.com. He emphasized that his remarks are based on his personal experience and that he did not always want children. He said that seeing his children's faces made him realize he is no longer the protagonist Source: lavanguardia.com.

Some experts note that while parenthood can increase a sense of purpose, it is not the only path to a fulfilling life Source: lavanguardia.com.