MOTHER’S DAY 2024 SPECIAL: Celebrities Share Lessons From Their Moms
BEYONCE
Lessons from Tina Knowles
Beyonce reveals that her mom, Tina, instilled in her a deep commitment to honesty. She emphasizes that if she cannot speak the truth, she chooses to remain silent. Beyonce admires her mother’s work ethic, recalling how Tina transitioned from a bank job to opening her own hair salon, which inspired Beyonce to consider pursuing various career paths before ultimately focusing on music. Despite facing financial challenges in the beginning, Beyonce’s mom supported her dream of becoming a singer, believing in her abilities even when the odds seemed stacked against her.
RIO FERDINAND
Words of Wisdom from Janice Ferdinand
Rio Ferdinand credits his mom, Janice, with keeping him grounded when he started gaining fame. Growing up in Peckham, Janice encouraged Rio to explore the world and cautioned him against letting success derail his ambitions. When Rio’s newfound celebrity status tempted him to indulge in late-night revelry, Janice’s advice to prioritize his future resonated with him. Her guidance to seize opportunities and experience life beyond the confines of their neighborhood shaped Rio’s outlook on success and personal growth.
ANGELINA JOLIE
Valuable Lessons from Marcheline Bertrand
Angelina Jolie cherishes the friendship she shared with her mother, Marcheline Bertrand. Marcheline’s nurturing nature taught Angelina the importance of empathy and understanding. Addressing her mom as “Marshmallow” due to her gentle demeanor, Angelina underscores Marcheline’s ability to listen attentively and offer unwavering support. Their close bond enabled Angelina to confide in her mother and seek guidance during challenging times, fostering a relationship built on trust and companionship.
LEO DICAPRIO
Inspiration from Irmelin Indenbirken
Leo DiCaprio draws strength from his mother, Irmelin Indenbirken’s resilience and optimism. Reflecting on Irmelin’s perseverance during a childhood illness that confined her to a hospital for years, Leo admires her determination to embrace life fully. Irmelin’s decision to move to America and instill a sense of wonder in Leo inspired him to appreciate life’s simple pleasures and diverse experiences. Leo acknowledges that his acting career, while fulfilling, pales in comparison to the joy of exploring the world and cherishing its beauty.
KEIRA KNIGHTLEY
Life Lessons from Sharman MacDonald
Keira Knightley’s mother, Sharman MacDonald, transitioned from acting to writing to support her family, exemplifying resilience and adaptability. Keira recounts her mother’s emphasis on treating others with kindness and dignity, regardless of success or setbacks. Sharman’s practical approach toward life’s uncertainties taught Keira the value of humility and gratitude, shaping her perspective on fame and fortune. Keira acknowledges the role of luck in her career while maintaining a grounded attitude toward success and the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry.
KATE WINSLET
Resilience and Fortitude from Sally Bridges-Winslet
Kate Winslet’s mother, Sally Bridges-Winslet, modeled resilience and diligence in the face of adversity. Kate remembers a childhood filled with financial constraints yet characterized by her mother’s unwavering work ethic and positivity. Sally’s ability to navigate challenges with grace and determination instilled in Kate a sense of perseverance and gratitude. Despite the hardships, Kate fondly recalls a childhood filled with love and support, thanks to her mother’s steadfast presence and unwavering strength.
JENNIFER LOPEZ
Lessons in Love and Independence from Guadalupe Rodriguez
Jennifer Lopez reflects on her mother, Guadalupe Rodriguez’s guidance on love and self-reliance. Guadalupe’s insistence on independence and self-awareness resonated with Jennifer, who admits to ignoring some of her mother’s advice in her youth. Jennifer acknowledges that her mother’s admonitions to prioritize self-respect and personal growth shaped her romantic ideals and career choices. Despite disagreements, Jennifer values her family’s unwavering love and support, which influenced her pursuit of lasting relationships and personal fulfillment.
SHERIDAN SMITH
Support and Encouragement from Marilyn Smith
Sheridan Smith credits her mother, Marilyn Smith, with fostering an environment of love and encouragement. Marilyn’s passion for music and performance inspired Sheridan to pursue her dreams, even in the face of skepticism. Sheridan fondly recalls her mother’s unwavering belief in her abilities, which provided a sense of security and confidence as she navigated the challenges of early adulthood. Marilyn’s unwavering support served as a source of strength and motivation for Sheridan, bolstering her resolve to pursue a career in the arts.
JAMIE BELL
Roots of Resilience from Eileen Bell
Jamie Bell reflects on his mother, Eileen Bell’s influence on his upbringing and career. Raised by a single mother in Teeside, Jamie credits Eileen with nurturing his passion for dance and performance. Eileen’s ability to instill a sense of humility and gratitude in Jamie amid the allure of Hollywood and international fame highlights her role in shaping his identity. Jamie’s acknowledgment of his ordinary roots underscores the importance of maintaining a sense of self amidst the ever-changing landscape of the entertainment industry.
CHARLIZE THERON
Courage and Sacrifice from Gerda Maritz
Charlize Theron’s mother, Gerda Maritz, epitomizes sacrifice and unconditional love. Charlize recalls her mother’s act of protecting her family by confronting her abusive husband, resulting in a tragic outcome. Gerda’s unwavering dedication to her children’s wellbeing and safety serves as a testament to her strength and fortitude. Charlize’s admiration for her mother’s selflessness and courage propelled her to pursue a life beyond South Africa, guided by Gerda’s enduring love and belief in her potential.