The former 'Today' show anchor talks about the challenges and concerns of raising her children in Hollywood, saying she's very careful not to overindulge her kids.
- Mar 29, 2024
AceShowbiz - Kathie Lee Gifford, former "Today" show anchor, has shared her concerns and parenting choices in raising her children, Cassidy and Cody, in the public eye. Despite her love for being a mom, Gifford was determined to prevent her kids from becoming "spoiled brats in Hollywood."
Raised in Greenwich, Connecticut, Gifford prioritized politeness and manners. She instilled in Cassidy and Cody the importance of expressing gratitude, even in public settings. Gifford recalled a situation where she insisted her daughter reiterate her "thank you" to a waitress, highlighting the value of social etiquette.
While she supports her children's Hollywood careers, Gifford has made a conscious effort to avoid hovering or interfering in their adult lives. She encourages them, but respects their boundaries and independence.
Gifford's parenting approach stems from both her own family values and her observations of the media landscape. She believes that a strong foundation in family and faith provides resilience in challenging times.
"If you have a really strong foundation of your family and your faith, it shows that you can get through some of the toughest hardships that come your way," Cassidy said, echoing her mother's sentiments. "But you really can get through it all if you have good people around you."
Gifford emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and avoiding the traps that come with fame. She recognizes that raising polite and responsible children in a world filled with "Nepo Babies" can be challenging, but she remains committed to her principles.
"I've never been a fan of religion," she said. "It just puts people in chains. But a relationship with a living God, that's authentic and real and raw."
Through her parenting experiences and her own creative pursuits, Gifford has found fulfillment in both family and professional endeavors. She encourages her children to find their own paths and to live with kindness and purpose.
