John Travolta misses his late son, Jett Travolta. The Grease star remembered Jett with a heartfelt tribute on what would have been his 33rd birthday, posting a never-before-seen photo on social media showing a tender moment between father and son. In the image, John held young Jett closely as the boy gently reached up to grab his father’s ears.
Jett Travolta was the first child of John and his late wife, Kelly Preston. The couple married in 1991 and raised their children away from the spotlight when possible. Jett’s passing was a deeply personal loss for them both, and in the years that followed, John launched the Jett Travolta Foundation, which supports children with special needs and helps raise awareness about related causes.
John Travolta’s late son, Jett Travolta
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John, now 71, has often shared heartfelt moments like this in honor of his late son. Jett Travolta passed away at the age of 16 in 2009 after suffering a seizure during a family vacation in the Bahamas. He had experienced frequent seizures throughout his life and was diagnosed with autism, something the family became more open about in later years.
Jett Travolta’s passing left a significant mark on the Travolta family, and John has since called the loss one of the most challenging experiences of his life. John celebrates Jett’s life each year, while fans and fellow celebrities also offer kind words and encouragement. This year’s post was no different, as messages poured in from across the world in recognition of the day.
Family bond
John’s daughter, Ella Bleu Travolta, also honored her brother. She shared a childhood photograph of their late mother, Kelly Preston, lovingly kissing Jett. Now 25, Ella frequently shares glimpses of her family’s memories and milestones.
The Travolta family has experienced significant loss in recent years, including the passing of Kelly Preston in 2020 after her private battle with breast cancer. Despite the challenges, John has remained focused on his two children, Ella and Benjamin, 14, and continues to honor the memory of both Jett and Kelly.
