Joanna Krupa, the 46-year-old model and actress, is set to launch a new pet adoption series titled Street Rescue, premiering on YouTube with weekly episodes starting on October 24, 2023. In an exclusive interview with Us Weekly on October 15, Krupa discussed her commitment to animal welfare, her role as a mother, and her approach to dating.
The series aims to highlight the challenges faced by low-income families and individuals who struggle to care for their pets due to high veterinary costs. Krupa emphasized the financial strain on pet owners in Los Angeles, where veterinary expenses can be exorbitant. She stated, “I spend so much money on animal rescue and even my own animals” and mentioned that the series is entirely funded by herself and the production team to ensure they can genuinely assist both pets and their owners.
Angels for Animals Rescue, a nonprofit organization co-founded by Krupa, her sister Marta Krupa, and friend Gabi Gutierrez, is at the heart of this initiative. The organization is dedicated to rescuing animals and finding them loving homes. Krupa expressed her desire to help those who may feel overwhelmed by their pets’ medical needs, noting, “I know how hard it is for people that live paycheck to paycheck… sometimes it gets to a point in life where they get sick… and they can’t afford to help them.”
The show seeks to build a network of support among various animal rescue organizations across California and beyond. Krupa aims to promote adoption and raise awareness about the number of animals in shelters, stating, “So many animals get killed every year at the shelters… with this type of show, I feel we can save so many lives by promoting adoption and giving back.”
In addition to her animal rescue efforts, Krupa is a devoted mother to her daughter, Asha-Leigh, whom she shares with her ex-husband Douglas Nunes. Reflecting on her experience as a single mother, Krupa expressed pride in her daughter’s compassion. “She has such a heart of gold,” she noted, particularly highlighting Asha-Leigh’s desire to help others in need.
Krupa, who divorced Nunes in 2023 after four years of marriage, shared her reflections on motherhood and her wish that Asha-Leigh would have a sibling. She acknowledged her regret for not starting a family earlier, saying, “The younger you are… the better it is. And plus, when you start at a young age, you can be like your child’s best friend.”
Krupa’s career has spanned over two decades, during which she has hosted the Polish version of “America’s Next Top Model” for 14 seasons. She described herself as the “Polish Tyra Banks,” noting that this role has kept her engaged in the entertainment industry away from the U.S. market.
As she prepares to re-enter the U.S. scene with Street Rescue, Krupa emphasized that the project must be meaningful and impactful. “If I do something back in the U.S., it has to be something that gives back, is heartfelt,” she said, acknowledging how her perspective has changed since becoming a mother.
While Krupa has distanced herself from her time on “The Real Housewives of Miami,” where she appeared in 2012, she maintains occasional contact with some cast members. She remarked on her limited interactions with them, stating, “I haven’t seen the girls in a long time.”
On the topic of her personal life, Krupa mentioned that dating is not her current priority. She is open to the possibility but desires a relationship that is “super spontaneous and super easy.” “I don’t want any drama in my life,” she stated, emphasizing her focus on her daughter and work.
Looking ahead, Krupa hinted at a new project involving her branding and product line, which she plans to introduce in the coming months. “I decided that it’s time to take advantage of what I built over the years and do a product line where everyone will be able to afford it, but the quality will be as it would be an expensive item,” she shared, revealing her excitement for future endeavors.
Joanna Krupa’s dedication to animal welfare, her role as a mother, and her ambition in the entertainment industry showcase her multifaceted life. As she embarks on this new chapter with Street Rescue, her commitment to making a positive impact remains at the forefront of her journey.
