Former The Only Way Is Essex star Billie Shepherd has shared a poignant family Christmas photo while opening up about a challenging year, amid swirling rumours of a serious rift with her sister, Sam Faiers.
An Emotional Christmas Message
On Christmas Day 2025, Billie, 35, took to Instagram to post a festive portrait with her husband, businessman Greg Shepherd, and their three children. The family smiled in front of a lavishly decorated tree, but the accompanying caption struck a more sombre tone.
"Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas," Billie wrote. "Its an emotional one for us this year, extremely grateful we have each other, enjoy being with your loved ones, celebrate and cherish every moment." She signed off with, "Lots of of love The Sheps," alongside heart and Christmas tree emojis.
The post prompted an outpouring of support from followers, with many sending love to the family during what appears to be a difficult festive season.
A Year of Heartbreak and Speculation
The Shepherd family's grief stems from the sudden death of Greg's father, David, in September 2025. Greg, 36, posted a heartfelt tribute at the time, describing his dad as "the most grateful man you could ever meet" and expressing his heartbreak over the loss.
However, the family's emotional struggles are compounded by persistent speculation regarding Billie's relationship with her younger sister and former reality TV co-star, Sam. Fans have grown concerned after noticing the sisters have not featured in each other's social media posts recently.
This distance follows the cancellation of their joint reality series, Sister Act, after just one season. While Sam attributed the axe to busy work schedules, reports cited low viewing figures and criticism that the show felt like an extended advertisement for their product lines.
A Lonely Festive Season for Sam?
Further reports suggest Sam may be facing a lonely period. She recently travelled to Lapland without Billie or their mother, Sue, who typically accompany her on trips. A source told The Sun that Sam appears to have been "frozen out" of her old Essex social circle and now primarily spends time with employees and work colleagues.
"Her old friends in Essex have been talking about how it seems like the only people she spends time with now are the ones she works with," the insider claimed. The duo, who found fame on ITV's The Only Way Is Essex before starring in The Mummy Diaries, have built a significant brand together, making the apparent distance particularly notable.
Despite the rumours and the family's tough year, Billie's Christmas message emphasised gratitude and family unity. The Mirror has contacted a representative for Sam Faiers for comment on the ongoing speculation.
