Hilary Duff Defends Mom, Stage Parents

0:00I'm Cory with the story, and this is your Pulse of the City, Durham News Today. Hillary Duff recently responded to comments from her former co-star, Frankie Munis, about her mom Susan being an intense stage parent. The two worked together on the 2003 movie Aging Cody Banks when they were teens, and even dated briefly afterward. Munis shared his take last September on a podcast, saying he had not spoken to Hillary in 22 years. Munis recalled an awkward run-in with Susan, on the set of Hillary's Disney show, Lizzy McGuire, back in 2002. He described her as very involved in her daughter's career, especially around casting for Aging Cody Banks. At the time, he was surprised when Hillary got the role opposite him. Hillary opened up about it on Mythical Kitchen, in an interview posted March 13. The 38-year-old said she was never forced into acting or singing, and that her mom just supported what she and sister Haley loved. She admitted there were mistakes along the way, but called it a learning process for their family in a tough industry.

1:01Fans have mixed feelings with some defending stage parents who help kids break into Hollywood and others seeing the pressure. Hillary emphasized having her mom and her corner made a big difference for better or worse. Despite the time apart, the 40-year-old Munis said he would love to catch up with Hillary someday and even chat about how their friendship ended. For now, Hillary remains grateful for her mom's role in her early success. Thanks to our sponsor for supporting today's coverage. Podcasts hit different when the sound comes from your pillow. Once you try it, it just makes sense. So L.I.SOLYPILLOW.COM