In a remarkably candid television appearance, former pop star Kerry Katona has made a heartfelt admission about the impact of her public life on her five children. Speaking live on Friday's episode of Good Morning Britain, Katona revealed that she explicitly tells her offspring that she is the "only embarrassment" in their family, acknowledging that her past mistakes have unfortunately become their burden.
A Mother's Honest Confession
During the emotional segment with hosts Kate Garraway and Ranvir Singh, Katona elaborated on this difficult reality. "With all my children when we leave the house I tell them I'm the only embarrassment in this family," she confessed. "I've made the mistakes so they don't have to. Unfortunately my mistakes have become my children's burden because of who I am."
The singer explained that her children—Molly, 23, Lilly-Sue, 22, Heidi, 18, Max, 17, and youngest daughter DJ, ten—often face commentary and judgment because of her very public errors and lifestyle choices documented in the media over the years.
The Weight of Celebrity Parenting
"They'll get a lot of stuff said to them because of what I've done," Katona continued with visible emotion. "I always want them to be a better version of me. You know, they're the five best parts of my entire soul. I just want them to be better versions, be their own person."
Despite these challenges, Katona emphasized the strong bond she shares with her children, who come from her three marriages to Brian McFadden, Mark Croft, and the late George Kay. She described herself as the "only consistency" they have ever had in their lives and praised their open communication, even when the details make her want to "scream into a pillow."
Finding Love After Public Scrutiny
The conversation naturally turned to Katona's current romantic life, with Singh inquiring how her children feel about her very public search for love, including her appearance on Celebs Go Dating. Katona beamed as she discussed her relationship with partner Paolo Margaglione, whom she met on the dating show approximately one year ago.
"He is the most beautiful soul I've ever come across in my life," she gushed. "I just don't feel I've ever truly been loved or received love from another human being the way he loves me and the way I love him."
Building a Future Together
Despite their strong connection, the couple is taking things slowly. In her recent column for new! magazine, Katona clarified that while they are working toward purchasing a home together, there are no immediate plans for marriage or expanding their family. "There's no rush for a ring, or a baby," she wrote. "I'm just enjoying everything for what it is."
Katona expressed contentment with their current phase, focusing on date nights and successfully blending their families while continuing their personal journey together. This measured approach reflects her desire to create stability after years of very public personal turmoil.
The television appearance provided rare insight into the complex realities of raising children in the spotlight, where a parent's very public mistakes can create unintended consequences for the next generation. Katona's honesty about this dynamic resonated with viewers who appreciate her transparency about the challenges of celebrity parenting.
