Joey Essex, known for his appearances on the popular reality TV series The Only Way is Essex, has experienced both fame and personal challenges. One of the significant events in his life was growing up under the care of his father, Danny Essex, after his mother’s untimely death when he was a child.
The impact of this loss and his relationship with his father was candidly explored in a BBC Three documentary.
Credit: Andrew Styczynski – The Sun
The Backstory of Donny Essex, Joey Essex’s Father
Donald “Donny” Essex is not only the father of reality stars Joey and Frankie Essex but also an ex-boxer who faced the daunting challenge of raising his children alone following the passing of his wife.
Joey’s mother, Tina, struggled with candida, a yeast infection that led to severe stomach issues, fatigue, and depression. Tragically, she took her own life when Joey was a mere ten years old. Donny chose to protect his young children by telling them that Tina died after a fall.
In 2013, Donny expressed his surprise at Joey’s lack of practical skills, even admitting to finding his son somewhat “useless” in certain aspects, such as serving tea, selling fish or even blowing his nose.
Despite these quirky shortcomings, Donald Essex has displayed unwavering support and love for his son, Joey.
You’re Not Alone
Remember, EVERY 90 minutes in the UK a life is tragically lost to suicide. It can affect anyone, and it remains the leading cause of death for people under 35. The societal taboo regarding mental health must be broken.
The Sun’s You’re Not Alone campaign urges us to seek help and offer support to others. Mental health is a shared concern, and these resources can offer help:
- CALM, www.thecalmzone.net, 0800 585 858
- Heads Together, www.headstogether.org.uk
- Mind, www.mind.org.uk, 0300 123 3393
- Papyrus, www.papyrus-uk.org, 0800 068 41 41
- Samaritans, www.samaritans.org, 116 123
- Movember, www.uk.movember.com
- Anxiety UK www.anxietyuk.org.uk, 03444 775 774 Monday-Friday 9.30am-10pm, Saturday/Sunday 10am-8pm
Joey Essex’s Reflection on His Father, Donny Essex
Joey paid homage to his dad in a Father’s Day tribute, sharing heartfelt words on social media. With an archive photo of Donny boxing and a contemporary image of the pair walking together, Joey expressed his gratitude for the lessons of respect, manners, and courage imparted by his father.
In his documentary “Grief And ME”, Joey narrates his childhood and the strength his dad demonstrated while raising him and his sister Frankie following their mother’s death. Donny has remained Joey’s pillar, an unwavering support regardless of circumstance.
Joey Essex: Grief And Me is accessible on BBC iPlayer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Joey Essex best known for?
Joey Essex is best known for his role in the reality television series “The Only Way is Essex.”
- Why did Joey Essex’s father raise him and his sister alone?
Joey’s father, Donny Essex, raised him and his sister alone after their mother, Tina, passed away when Joey was ten years old.
- What challenges did Joey Essex face in his youth?
Joey faced the challenge of dealing with his mother’s death at a young age, as well as developing practical life skills.
- How has Joey Essex paid tribute to his father?
Joey has paid tribute to his father on social media, especially during events like Father’s Day, expressing gratitude for his father’s guidance and support.