Kerry Katona is buzzing with excitement as her daughter Heidi approaches a major turning point, gearing up for a big 18th birthday bash next month. The former pop sensation and member of Atomic Kitten has been laying down the law when it comes to growing up, insisting that Heidi should start to take on life head-first with newfound independence and accountability.
Heidi is Kerry’s third eldest child, who she shares with her ex-hubby Mark Croft, and she’s also mum to Molly, 21, and Lilly-Sue with former flame Brian McFadden, and little DJ with the late George Kay. Dishing the details in her exclusive chat for her OK! column, the reality TV star gushed, “I can’t believe Heidi is going to be 18, it’s crazy. I hope she’ll become more independent – I’m trying to make it clear that at 18 she needs to be making her own money and won’t be my responsibility.”
This mum-of-five, never shy about showing off the deep bond she has with her brood, reflected on her efforts to ensure they’ve had a solid start in life. But now it’s time for Heidi to grab the reins and show the world what she’s made of, reports the Mirror.
As this special birthday looms, it’s not just milestones and motherly advice drawing the family closer. Kerry was over the moon sharing that her eldest, Lilly, pulled off a heartwarming surprise visit from Ireland. “Last week, Lilly surprised me by visiting from Ireland, which was amazing! I cried my eyes out; I really wasn’t expecting it,” she said.
Their emotional reunion also included an early birthday celebration for Lilly, who is turning 22 soon but will be in Ireland on her birthday. However, they’re planning another get-together next month for Heidi’s big day so the family can celebrate together.
Kerry has been mulling over a potential move closer to her friend Katie Price down South, where much of her social and professional life revolves. But with her children still at home, she’s decided to stay put, quipping, “I thought my kids would be flying the nest this year, but I think I’ll be staying here a while! “.
As Heidi’s 18th birthday nears, Kerry is focused on her daughter’s future preparations. Following in her mother’s entertainment industry footsteps seems a likely path for Heidi, a talented singer who appeared on The Voice Kids in 2020 and was part of Paloma Faith’s team.
Kerry previously shared that post-GCSEs, Heidi plans to attend a performing arts school in Liverpool, a move Kerry admits she’s not entirely ready for emotionally.