Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway has spoken candidly about the difficulties she faces while raising her 15-year-old son, Billy. 

The broadcaster, 57, admitted that navigating modern parenting is “challenging,” especially in an era where social media influences young minds.

During an episode of Good Morning Britain on Friday, February 28, Kate shared her concerns about controversial figures

such as Andrew Tate and the potential impact they may have on impressionable boys, including her own son.

Speaking alongside co-host Adil Ray and guests Freddie Feltham and Dr. Sophie King-Hill, she reflected on the struggles of ensuring Billy is exposed to positive role models.

Kate Garraway Shares Parenting Fears

As the discussion turned to the recent return of Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan to the United States from Romania, Kate took the opportunity to voice her concerns as a mother.

“As a mother of a son, I feel very much that it is challenging on how to raise that son because they will say things,” she admitted.

Kate went on to explain that while she does not believe Billy is a follower of Andrew Tate, she is aware of the powerful influence such figures can have on young boys.

“I would like to believe, and I hope I can be confident, that he is not a follower of Andrew Tate – I’m pretty sure he isn’t,” she said.

However, she acknowledged that children today are exposed to countless opinions and ideas through platforms like TikTok and other social media sites, which can make it difficult for them to form their own views without external pressure.

“Comments are made genuinely on social media, in the playground, and on TikTok that they will repeat and are attacked for – and then you find that they’re just trying to feel their way as well,” she added.

Navigating Life After Derek Draper’s Passing

Kate’s heartfelt admission about raising Billy comes just weeks after she opened up about the final wishes of her late husband, Derek Draper. The former political adviser passed away in January at the age of 56, following a prolonged battle with complications from COVID-19.

The GMB presenter has been transparent about the emotional toll of losing Derek and the impact it has had on her and their two children, Billy and 18-year-old Darcey.

In a recent interview, she shared how she is trying to shift her focus toward a more positive future for her family.

“I can begin to see a new positivity for the three of us, I am hoping. Where we don’t look back and remember: ‘This time last year we were doing this or that with Dad…’ but focus on the future,” she revealed.

She also reflected on Derek’s final wish for her – to embrace life despite his absence.

“Derek would want me to be grabbing life because you learn how fast, and how easily, it can be snatched away. I know he’d be saying: ‘You’ve got to get out and live, because I can’t,’” she said.

The Challenges of Raising a Teenager in the Social Media Age

Kate’s concerns resonate with many parents raising teenagers in today’s digital world. With social media providing a constant stream of information, influencers like Andrew Tate have gained massive followings, shaping the views and behaviors of young audiences.

Tate, a former kickboxer and social media personality, has faced criticism for promoting controversial opinions on masculinity, relationships, and success. Many parents worry that his content could negatively influence young boys, leading them to adopt harmful attitudes.

Kate’s discussion on GMB highlights the importance of open conversations between parents and children about online influences, as well as ensuring young people develop critical thinking skills to assess the messages they encounter.

Looking Ahead

Despite the challenges, Kate remains committed to providing her son with guidance and support as he grows. Her journey as a mother navigating loss, social influences, and the challenges of modern parenting is one that resonates with many.

As she continues to balance her career and personal life, Kate is determined to honor Derek’s legacy by embracing the future with hope and resilience.

Her candid admission serves as a reminder that parenting is never easy, especially in a rapidly changing world, but with open dialogue and a strong support system, families can navigate even the most difficult challenges together.