I’m A Celebrity’s Jennie McAlpine has a devastating Christmas heartache.
The Coronation Street star’s stepfather has revealed how her mother died on Christmas Day when Jennie was just 20.
Jennie’s stepfather Robin Parker has opened up about how his wife Linda Garner choked to death.
Linda had suffered for years with a degenerative disease that left her unable to chew her food properly.
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But tragically Jennie had not seen her mother much before she died after choosing to live with her father when her parents separated when she was young.
Robin said: “Jennie knew all about it and it was difficult for her – no child would want to see their mother go through that.”
He added to the Mirror: “She kept her distance, not for any nasty reason, it was just one of those things.”
The Corrie favourite is now facing her first Christmas with both of her parents gone, as her dad Tom passed away this year.
Jennie broke down in camp as she opened up to her campmates about the loss.
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Jennie began speaking to her fellow celebs, but found herself struggling for words. She finally managed to say: “‘Cos I lost my dad earlier this year, so…” before tailing off.
Jamie immediately realised how hard Jennie was finding it, so he sweetly said: “He’d be really proud of you for doing this, darling.”
Hopefully, her lovely young son – whom she has been parted from throughout her jungle stay – will give Mummy extra hugs and help her through this year’s festive period.