Tina Turner | Tina Turner and Ike Turner with their children | Source: Getty Images
The iconic Tina Turner passed away at 83, after a lengthy illness, according to a statement on her social media page. The phenomenal woman who enthralled millions globally with her spellbinding music and zeal for life has left the world in mourning.
Tina's passion for life and music shone brightly, even in the face of adversity. The singer's publicist Bernard Doherty said the "Queen of Rock 'n' Roll" passed at home in Kusnacht, near Zurich, Switzerland, leaving behind a monumental legacy. Her loss will be profoundly felt, and her indomitable spirit will continue to inspire future generations.
But Tina Turner was also a mother to four sons: Craig, Ronald, and her adopted sons Ike Jr. and Michael. In a candid interview, Tina was straightforward about her maternal bond, explaining that her relationship with her kids mirrored more of a sibling-like connection rooted in respect rather than an overly nurturing, motherly approach.
Tina Turner with Ike Turner and their children | Source: Getty Images
"I love them, in a strange kind of way. I'm not mushy with them. I'm there for them. They can always get to me," she said. So let's take a look inside the lives of iconic singer's children and their bond with their famous mother.
Craig Raymond Turner
Craig Raymond Turner, born August 29, 1958, was the firstborn son of Tina and saxophonist Raymond Hill. As a child, Craig was known to be highly emotional, particularly impacted by the tumultuous relationship between his parents. Tina described him as a boy who'd "always look down in sadness."
In a heartrending turn of events, Craig tragically took his life on July 3, 2018, at age 59. Tina honored her son in a touching ceremony, spreading his ashes off the coast of California. She shared her final goodbye in a heartfelt Twitter post, remembering him as her baby despite his age at passing.
Tina has since reflected on Craig's life and passing, recalling their last conversations, filled with his happiness and love for her. However, Tina believes solitude may have been a major factor in Craig's tragic decision.
Ronald "Ronnie" Turner
Ronald "Ronnie" Turner was born on October 27, 1960, to Tina Turner and Ike Turner. Ronnie faced tumultuous teenage years, and his struggles extended into his young adulthood, becoming entangled in legal issues and dealing with the harmful influences of drugs.
Despite the hardships, Tina maintained a watchful eye and provided support, even while encouraging him to stand on his own feet. Love bloomed later in Ronnie's life when he tied the knot with French singer Afida Turner.
Tragically, Ronnie succumbed to colon cancer on December 8, 2022, at the age of 62. The heartbroken Tina paid tribute to her son on Instagram, expressing her sorrow over his untimely departure. Afida, mourning the loss of her husband, remembered him as a "true angel" and her "best friend."
Ike Turner Jr.
Ike Turner Jr., born in 1958 to Ike Sr. and Lorraine Taylor, was adopted by Tina Turner when he was just two. "Tina raised me from the age of 2. She's the only mother I've ever known," Ike Jr. confessed in an interview. Ike Jr.'s musical talent shone through, earning him a Grammy for best traditional blues album alongside his father.
Ike Turner with Ike Turner Jr. | Source: Getty Images
By 1985, Ike Jr. found himself estranged from Tina, admitting that it felt like she was neglecting her children. In 2018, he revealed that he hadn't been in contact with his adoptive mother for over a decade. Despite this, Ike Jr. continues to uphold his family name in the music industry, currently performing in a tribute band called The Love Thang.
Michael Turner
Michael Turner, born in 1959 to Ike Sr. and Lorraine Taylor, was also adopted by Tina Turner during her marriage to Ike. Their divorce in 1978 deeply affected Michael, according to his elder brother, Ike Jr. "Michael wanted my mother and father to get back together...He was hurt by their being apart," Ike Jr. revealed in an interview.
Sadly, Michael's later years found him in need of medical support. According to Ike Jr., as of 2018, Michael was residing in a convalescent home in Southern California. While Tina has not personally visited him, she continued to provide financial assistance.
Tina Turner on March 3, 2019 in Hamburg | Source: Getty Images
However, Michael, along with his brother Ike Jr., was notably absent from Tina Turner's documentary, save for minor mentions. This exclusion has reportedly devastated the two brothers, suggesting a challenging relationship with their adoptive mother.
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text "help" to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741, or go to suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
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