In the wake of Kelly Preston's heartbreaking loss, John Travolta has poured his heart into raising their children
John Travolta's life has been marked by both immense triumphs and profound tragedies. Adored by many for his legendary roles and his genuine personality, he remains a pillar of strength as a single parent.
In July 2020, his wife of nearly three decades, Kelly Preston, succumbed to breast cancer after a two-year battle. She was only 57. Since this heartbreaking loss, Travolta has focused on staying optimistic for the sake of their two children, Ella (his daughter) and Benjamin (his son).
Before losing his beloved wife, the Travolta family endured another devastating blow in 2009 when their 16-year-old son Jett passed away from a seizure.
The loss left them shattered. Travolta opened up about his grief, stating it was the worst experience of his life.
When Kelly passed away, a family spokesperson shared the news with a magazine, revealing that she had been privately battling the illness for some time, supported by loved ones.
She was described as a radiant and caring soul who brought joy to everything she touched. The family requested privacy during this difficult time.
Preston kept her cancer diagnosis a secret. Her co-star in her final film revealed on a talk show that none of the cast were aware of her condition during filming. The co-star explained that actors often choose to keep health issues private due to concerns about insurance and future work opportunities.
Travolta expressed his grief on social media, thanking the medical professionals who cared for Kelly, their friends and family for their support. He took a moment to express his gratitude to everyone who helped them through this challenging time.
For his first birthday without Kelly, his children helped him navigate his grief. Ella, who is following in her parents' footsteps with her acting career, posted a heartwarming message for Travolta, calling him the most incredible man she knows.
"You're not just the best Dad ever, you're also my best friend," she wrote. "Thank you for everything you do for us every day. We are so lucky to have you."
On what would have been Kelly's 59th birthday, Travolta shared a photo of her on social media with a loving caption. Ella also shared a touching message expressing how much she misses her mom.
Following his loss, some of Travolta's friends reportedly tried to set him up with potential partners. However, it seems the actor is still grieving and not ready to move on romantically.
"John has no shortage of friends who want to introduce him to people, and there are many women who would love to date him," an acquaintance revealed to a magazine.
"He appreciates the attention, but he's just not interested right now. No one wants to pressure him because they understand he's conflicted between opening up to love again and focusing on being the best dad he can be. Until he's ready, everyone is respecting his need for space."
During an appearance on a talk show, Travolta shared a conversation he had with his son Benjamin after his mother's passing.
"[Ben] told me he was worried I might leave too," Travolta recalled. "I explained the difference between my life expectancy and the shorter time his mother had."
"He cherishes honesty, and I told him the truth about life. No one knows how long they'll live," he continued.
"We all could go tomorrow. That includes you and me. The important thing is to view it as a part of life. We don't know exactly when, we just make the most of the time we have."
While maintaining a low profile, John Travolta spoke about coping with grief in an interview.
"I've learned that grieving is a personal experience," he shared. "It's unique to each person, and healing comes from your own journey. There's no right or wrong way. The best way to support someone who is grieving is to allow them their space and avoid imposing your own feelings. That's what I've discovered."
Travolta is incredibly proud of his children and shares a close bond with them.
Throughout the years, he has publicly expressed his love for his children, reminding them of their importance in his life. The heartwarming part is that Ella and Benjamin reciprocate this love.
Ella, who has embarked on her own acting career like her parents, considers her dad her biggest inspiration.
She is known for her roles in movies and has expressed her lifelong passion for performing. On Father's Day, Travolta shared a sentimental message about fatherhood, along with photos of his children.
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