Celebrities that Grew up in Foster Care in Northern England

It's incredible to see so many celebrities who have achieved great success since leaving the foster care system. At Excel Fostering, we've compiled a list of famous individuals who were raised in foster care in the North. Some of these tales shed light on the difficult experiences of well-known celebrities, but they also demonstrate how foster care has shaped them into the successful people they are today.

John Lennon

Born in Liverpool during the Second World War, John’s early childhood was filled with uncertainty. His father – a merchant seaman – wasn’t introduced to John until he was 18 months old, leaving his mother, Julia, to raise John primarily by herself. There are several reports of the strained relationship between Lennon’s parents, with claims John’s father had the intention of secretly emigrating to New Zealand with him in 1966, resulting in an argument between both parents leaving John to choose between them.

However, it was during the time he was living with his mother and her new boyfriend that his Aunt Mimi contacted social services about his well-being. She and her husband went on to foster John, providing a stable and loving home for most of his childhood and retaining a close relationship with the pop star until his death in 1980.

A key takeaway from John’s fostering journey is the relationship he had with his mother after entering foster care. Although they no longer lived together, John would regularly see his mother - she was also a hugely positive influence on his career. Julia purchased his first guitar, gave him regular music lessons and later became a muse for much of his music.

At Excel Fostering, we understand the importance of familial relationships. We encourage all our foster parents to support their foster child’s relationship with their family if it is safe to do so. We also guide our carers through the reunification process if their foster child is able to be reunited with their family.

Kerry Katona

TV personality and former Atomic Kitten singer Kerry Katona was born in Warrington to mother, Sue Katona. Unable to care for Kerry and her siblings, Kerry was placed into foster care aged 13 before finding her home for the next three years with “an amazing couple, Mag and Fred”. She credits her foster parents for having a hugely positive impact on her life and still maintains a close with Fred.

Kriss Akabusi

Kriss Akabusi entered foster care at the age of 4 with his brother Riba, after their parents returned to Nigeria. After several foster placements, he settled in a children’s home aged eight until he left care at 16.  Although it was difficult to begin with, he went on to feel ‘more love than I’d ever experienced’, during his time in care and claims it has shaped who he is today. Now a British broadcaster and former Olympic athlete, Kriss is an advocate for helping teens and young adults leave care.

Here at Excel, we work closely with our carers, care leavers and local authorities to ensure the transition into adulthood is as seamless and stress-free as possible. To learn more about the support we offer read our guide on Care Leavers.

Samantha Morton

Born in Nottingham, BAFTA lifetime award-winning actress Samantha Morton, first entered care aged eight and was in and out of care for the next decade.

Although Samantha’s time in care was incredibly turbulent, she has since committed to improving the lives of children in care by supporting campaigns, joining protests, raising awareness and dedicating her BAFTA win to children in foster care.

Fostering in the North

At Excel Fostering, we’re dedicated to matching children in care with foster families that will support and nurture them. From their health and wellbeing to their career aspirations, our team are on hand 24/7 to support our foster families. Interested in fostering? Get in touch with a member of our expert team today!