Lilly Singh says being 37 and unmarried is just part of the journey

Indian-Canadian host reflects on fame, purpose, and rejecting pressure around marriage and success in her 30s

Indian-Canadian host, author and actor Lilly Singh, also known as “Superwoman”, spoke to Variety about her journey from a small-time vlogger to a global entertainer, reflecting on career growth, philanthropy, travel and work-life balance.

In the interview, Singh discussed the highs and lows of fame, saying the experience ultimately helped her build a successful multi-platform career. 

One of Singh’s most talked-about remarks centred on societal expectations surrounding marriage and age. “I do not believe in regrets. When I was 16, I believed I had to figure it all out — my career, marriage and having kids,” she said.

“Now I am 37, unmarried and do not have children. What I would tell my 16-year-old self is to put a little less pressure on figuring everything out and instead enjoy the journey.”

Singh revealed that her career began during a difficult period in her teenage years when she struggled with depression in high school before rising to fame through her relatable South Asian-themed YouTube content as “Superwoman”.

Today, she is known as the host of A Little Late with Lilly Singh and has also established herself as an author, producer and podcaster.

Speaking about philanthropy, Singh highlighted her commitment to supporting underprivileged girls in India through her initiative, Unicorn Island. “I believe in gender equality. The world would be a better place if women had more power,” she said.

Singh added that she works with the Pardada Pardadi Educational Society, which supports the education of girls from underprivileged rural communities. “I found it important to personally support this endeavour,” she said.

Despite growing up in Canada, Singh said India remains close to her heart. “My problems may seem vastly different from those faced by girls in some parts of the world, but many issues are universal — body shaming, standing up to your parents and fighting for what you want,” she said.

Singh also reflected on her admiration for Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, recalling a memorable visit to his residence, Mannat. “I still vividly remember how I felt spending time with him. He spoke to me in detail about what he loved about my work,” she said. “The best gift you can give people is your time and attention. I try to emulate that with my fans.”

Now active in the film industry, Singh is also involved in Holy Curse, a film exploring gender identity issues within a traditional social setting. “Everything I do has meaning and is artistic. I do things for the little Lilly who just wants to have fun,” she said.

Singh also described travel as one of life’s greatest teachers. “If I were president of the world, I would make travel mandatory and accessible for everyone. Meeting people from the other side of the world is incredibly important,” she said.

Reflecting on her work ethic, Singh said she no longer believes overworking should be glorified. “In my 20s, I worked all day without breaks. Now, in my 30s, I know better,” she added.