Christie Brinkley Encourages Her Kids' Passions While Avoiding Judgment
Supermodel Christie Brinkley shares her unwavering support for her kids' unique journeys in life Discover how she embraces their individual passions while avoiding judgment Exclusive insights into Brinkley's proud and nurturing parenting approach
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Christie Brinkley is a proud mother of three — and she loves to watch her children find their own paths.
"I believe it's crucial to listen attentively to their experiences and provide unwavering support for their passions," expressed Brinkley, 69, as she discussed her collaboration with the American Red Cross. "When I do offer advice, I make sure to encase it in love and warmth, allowing it to be absorbed effectively."
Brinkley further shared, "Avoiding excessive judgment, I trust that, at this stage, they possess sound judgment and know how to navigate their own paths."
The supermodel became a mother for the first time in 1985 when she had her daughter Alexa with then-husband Billy Joel. Following their divorce, Brinkley gave birth to her second child, son Jack, in 1994 with ex-husband Richard Taubman. In 1998, Brinkley and her third husband, Peter Cook, welcomed their first child together, daughter Sailor. Cook also went on to adopt Jack, who is Brinkley's child from her previous marriage to Richard Taubman.
Brinkley expressed her surprise and pride in her children, saying, "Sometimes I'm amazed by their attentiveness. Every now and then, I'll observe them doing something and I'll feel an immense sense of pride, realizing that they truly were listening and absorbing what I said."
Alexa, aged 37, Jack, aged 28, and Sailor, aged 25, have all reached adulthood and are now forging their own paths in their respective careers. Alexa is following in her father's musical footsteps, while Sailor is making a name for herself in the modeling industry. Meanwhile, Jack, as an entrepreneur, successfully launched a ride-sharing service in 2019.
Although Brinkley has imparted numerous life lessons to her children over the years, she has also gained valuable insights from them.
"I constantly discover that being connected with my kids broadens my perspective, and I truly cherish that," she enthusiastically shared with Us. "It keeps me constantly inspired, curious, and passionate about everything in my surroundings. The mutual exchange of energy is truly remarkable."
Following in her late mother Marge Brinkley's footsteps, Brinkley has mirrored her relationships with Alexa, Jack, and Sailor after her own maternal bond.
“I was fortunate to have an exceptional mother,” Christie shared with Us. “Her warmth and charm endeared her to all my friends, creating a cherished gathering place at my house. My mom had an innate talent for infusing joy into every occasion, while my dad and she embodied the unwavering support of parents who were consistently present and deeply involved in my life, in every aspect.”
Jack Brinkley-Cook, Alexa Ray Joel, Christie Brinkley, and Sailor Lee Brinkley-Cook, all pictured together in Taylor Hill/Getty Images, have a strong bond as a family. Christie expressed her gratitude for being able to communicate with her parents, Marge and Don Brinkley, regardless of the distance between them. She emphasized her commitment to being there for her children, stating that she would willingly wake up anytime they need her. The importance of quality time spent together was also highlighted, noting its irreplaceable value in their relationships.
She expressed, "Family is truly irreplaceable. It holds immense significance, serving as our foundation and a sanctuary to return to when we long for solace, seeking comfort and affection before embarking on new endeavors."
Furthermore, Christie's mother played a pivotal role in inspiring her collaboration with the American Red Cross.
My mother faced a complication and required blood after my birth. However, it became clear that she had a unique blood type, and finding a suitable match proved difficult. Despite efforts to locate a donor through radio announcements in the relatively small town of Monroe, Michigan, no match was found. Fortunately, one of my uncles was a coach for a baseball team, and one of the players happened to be a perfect match. This player generously donated his blood, ultimately saving my mother's life. This experience has made me realize the significant impact of blood donation. Spreading awareness about the ease of donating blood is essential. It only takes an hour and can make a world of difference.
With reporting by Christina Garibaldi
