ITV presenter Jeff Brazier has spoken candidly about becoming a grandfather at the age of 46, describing the experience as "crazy." The television star, best known for his appearances on Loose Women, became a grandparent last year when his son Freddy and his partner Holly Swinburn welcomed a baby girl named Isla Jade. The name Isla Jade pays tribute to Freddy's late mother, Jade Goody, who tragically passed away from cervical cancer in March 2009.
Reflections on Fatherhood and Grandfatherhood
Speaking during the Loose Men takeover on Loose Women, Brazier shared his thoughts on becoming a grandparent at a relatively young age. "Yeah, to be a granddad at 46 is a really crazy experience," he said. He went on to reflect on the lessons learned from raising his two sons, Bobby and Freddy, whom he had with the late Big Brother star Jade Goody. "I think what a lot of grandparents would say is that there are so many mistakes or things that, with the hindsight we have now, that we would do differently if we could go back. Obviously, we've got that experience sort of behind us and under our belt now."
Brazier added that he feels he can now love Isla in a way that draws on all the knowledge he has gained from 22 years of being a father. He became a dad at the age of 23 in 2003 when Bobby was born, followed by Freddy in 2004. Reflecting on his early fatherhood, he said: "I was basically a dad to the boys... it happened, when it happened, so you obviously do your best."
A Joyful New Chapter
The presenter expressed his delight at being a young, active grandfather. "But yeah, to be still young and to be a granddad and to know that I'll be able to keep up with her as well as give her the benefit of everything that I've learned, it's a beautiful thing," he remarked.
When Freddy and Holly announced the birth of Isla Jade, Brazier took to Instagram to share his joy. Posting a photo of himself cuddling his granddaughter, he wrote: "You have no idea how deeply loved you are. There are so many good people standing behind you, and a very special angel watching over you. Mummy and Daddy gave you her name, and we're going to tell you all about her."
He continued: "You already feel like the greatest gift. I will be forever grateful to Mummy and Daddy for filling my heart and bringing such joy into our lives. Thank you, Holly and Freddy, with all my heart. Holding you is pure peace. All my love, Grandad."
Loose Women airs on ITV at 12.30pm on weekdays.
