A parents’ pain
Amid all the tabloid headlines, two parents will finally tell the media about their son's battle with mental health.
- Published by David Knox
- on
- Filed under News
Bert and Patti Newton tonight speak up on the dramatic turn of events this month involving son Matthew Newton.
They speak with Tracy Grimshaw, breaking their silence on their troubled son, who was replaced as X Factor host following an alleged assault with girlfriend Rachael Taylor in Italy.
Since that time much has been written in the media, including ferocious editorials, tabloid headlines, and articles on the weekend detailing drug use.
Tonight his showbiz parents will tell Grimshaw the issue is one of mental health.
“A lot of things that have unfolded in recent times, the great majority of those things we’ve learned about them through the media,” Bert Newton tells A Current Affair.
“People might have had the impression that whatever happened, and whatever was done, we condoned it, and when a situation like this comes along, you don’t.
“A lot of people don’t have the experience, but when it concerns your child you say ‘well, of course we love him and we support him’. I think I made an error in saying that because I do love him and I do support him, but I don’t support or condone any of the things that have happened.
“We should have seen the signs … but we didn’t.”
“His biggest problem is the fact that it’s not a drug, it’s not an alcohol problem as much as it’s a mental health issue,” Patti says. “He’s always had a bit of a problem with his temper, even as a kid, but I do think it’s accelerated. We don’t know how to handle it.”
When Matthew was escorted home from Dublin by a producer, Bert Newton collected him from the airport and took him to Wentworthville’s Northside West Clinic where he remains.
Please note: Comments will open following the airing of the ACA interview.
Source: Herald Sun
Share
- Tagged with A Current Affair, The X Factor
11 Responses
@Adam.Think your reading a bit to much into her comment,they sounded and looked worried about the situation to a greater extent than just Bert’s reputation to me.
I feel sorry for Bert and Patti. They looked very worried for their son and this is clearly taking it’s toll on them. Matt has some serious issues to address. Let’s hope he finds some inner peace and exercises some self control.
I have never been a big fan of the Newtons, but I sympathise with them on this one. Well handled by Ms. Grimshaw.
I empathise with Bert and Patti regarding their son Matthew. I was mouthing every word for Patti- I know because I’ve been there as a mum.. hanging on for your son
Having seen the interview on ACA i think it was self serving to say the least, Pattys comment along the lines of her husband has been in ‘the biz’ for 60 yrs and she didnt want him being remembered for the headlines of his son causing trouble etc sums it all up really. Its pretty clear they dont really know all that much of what happened with the events in Rome so then why bother commenting on it. it would have been preferable to say nothing rather than some of the things that were said.
Oh i really feel for Bert and Patti – especially Patti – her grief and pain were palpable. I really admire their courage and empathise with their upset. It does not look good for their talented but very troubled son.
I felt so much for Bert and Patti. The main moment for me was when Patti mentioned Bert’s career and reputation as one of the reasons for doing the interview. It was a very good point and I am glad she highlighted that. Tracey Grimshaw ran the interview with respect. It was clear in a couple of places ACA zoomed the footage on either Bert of Patti to get the feel right, I could of done with out that.
The main thing has to be that Matthew Newton get better in the end, nobody should be in that frame of mind. I wish him well.
No matter what inner demons Matthew has to deal they are clearly a family in pain and have a long road ahead of them.
I Just watched the Bert and Patti Newton Interview…..I am dumbfounded that Patti said she instigated this interview because she didn’t want Matt’s actions to impact the way people remember Bert….OMG no wonder Matt has issues, with parents that put their reputation and celebrity and popularity ahead of their own Son..
The title of this story “A Parents Pain” I think isn’t for the pain for their son, but for the pain his actions may have on their personal and professional reputations.
Matt does have issues that he needs to first admit and come to terms with before getting better or being able to successfully live with it in balance.
I seen a totally different perspective of the Newtons tonight, one far from what I had thought they would be.
Whilst I certainly don’t agree with anything Matthew Newton has done, I do feel very sorry for Bert and Patti.
For any parent to see their child go through mental anguish must be terrible. I think Bert and Patti gave a very frank and forthright interview which highlighted that Matthew’s troubles are more complex than has been reported.
Although he has caused a lot of hurt, I hope Matthew can see what he’s done and try to get the help he clearly needs.
I’m sure Bert and Patti will always be there for him no matter what – like any parents would be.
Bert and Pattie were very reasonable. Doing the interview so that Bert will not be tainted by his son’s actions is very sad for all involved, but they can hold their heads high. They love their son and they want him to be well. Matthew Newton needs massive help.
Contrary to Bert and Pattie, 2UE/3AW entertainment reporter Peter Ford has been less than reasonable in attacking anyone who has criticised Matthew Newton. Ford needs a reality check.