DANNIELLA Westbrook threw her daughter Jodie Jenkins an incredible 21st birthday party this weekend.
But the actress, who's also mum to son Kai, 26, has had a difficult few years when it comes to her relationship with both of them.
The Sun can reveal that both Jodie and Kai "distanced themselves" from former EastEnders star Danniella, 48, after her very public battle with addiction.
Danniella – best known for playing feisty Sam Mitchell in the BBC1 soap – moved up north just before the pandemic so she was separated from her children in distance, too.
A source told us: "Danniella and her kids grew apart after they distanced themselves from her after all of her addiction struggles.
"After she moved to Yorkshire the pandemic happened so she was stuck there."
More on Danniella Westbrook
Inside Danniella Westbrook’s daughter Jodie’s 21st birthday party
Danniella Westbrook reveals plans for daughter Jodie’s 21st birthday party
Danniella was also going through a "bad patch" with her mental health, according to our insider, which only added to the tough times she was facing.
"Danniella has been in hospital on several occasions over the last few year which has been hard for her to cope with," the source added.
"And when it came to work she was worried she'd never get another acting gig. It all added to her mental health struggles."
But the pal insists both Kai and Jodie have forgiven her and "welcomed her back with open arms".
Most read in Showbiz
Celebs post kids' back to school pics – can you tell who the proud parents are?
Pregnant Mollie King shows growing baby bump in a cream dress at BBC studios
Christine McGuinness tries on wedding dress and jokes ‘save the date’
Wife of Ladbaby 'living her best life' after he's accused of touching woman
Last weekend Danniella went all out and threw an amazing bash for Jodie as she turned 21.
Danniella previously revealed she went three years without speaking to Jodie, who was living with her dad Kevin Jenkins.
She and Kevin separated in 2014 but their divorce was only granted in 2020.
Danniella said at the time: "I haven't spoken to Jody for three years. She's 17, she's gorgeous. Look, it's very difficult, especially since I've been ill."
Source: Read Full Article
