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Robbie Williams has shared a deeply emotional update about his family’s health struggles as he continues to perform in stadiums around the world.
The 50-year-old former Take That star took to Instagram over the weekend to reveal the heartbreaking reality he and wife Ayda Field are facing behind the scenes, admitting that both his parents and his mother-in-law are battling serious illnesses.
Robbie’s mum Janet was diagnosed with dementia last year and, devastatingly, no longer recognises her son. His dad, Pete, is living with Parkinson’s disease, while Ayda’s mother, Gwen, is fighting cervical cancer.
In a candid, lengthy post, the father-of-four laid bare the emotional toll of trying to support his family while maintaining his energy and focus for his high-octane live shows.
“Things at home with my parents? VERY precarious right now,” Robbie wrote. “It’s real world stuff that deeply affects me and my wife. And if my wife is affected, you can bet I am. So the maths are: Virus + ill parents + stadium tour.”
He went on to describe how every ounce of energy outside of his stage time is focused on supporting his loved ones and simply keeping going.
“Every single moment of every single day is in preparation for those 2+ hours on stage,” he explained. “Outside of that? I have nothing. There is nothing to offer. I don’t mind saying to those around me, I need protecting. And in return I protect them.”
The Angels and Rock DJ singer also revealed he’d recently been battling a virus himself while trying to keep his tour commitments on track, adding yet another strain to an already difficult period for the star.
Fans flooded the post with messages of love and support, praising Robbie for his honesty and sending best wishes to his family.
One fan wrote: “You’re such a strong man Robbie, your family is lucky to have you. Take care of yourself too.” Another added: “It’s okay to step back if you need to. We love you and you have nothing to prove to us.”
Robbie has often spoken in interviews about how close he is to his family and how much they mean to him, and this latest post underlines just how much he is carrying right now.
With more stadium shows still ahead of him this summer, the star’s fans are rallying around him, urging him to put his own wellbeing first and reminding him of the love and admiration they continue to hold for him after more than three decades in the spotlight.