💔 John Travolta Honors Late Son Jett on His 32nd Birthday
"Happy birthday Jett - I miss you so much!
Love you forever!"
With those 12 words and a throwback photo full of love, John Travolta once again brought the internet to tears.
On what would have been Jett Travolta’s 32nd birthday, John took to Instagram to honor his late son — a tradition that’s become quietly powerful over the years. Jett, who passed away in 2009 at just 16, was John and the late Kelly Preston’s first child together, and his story continues to touch fans around the world.
A Life Cut Short — But Never Forgotten
Jett was born in 1992, and while his early years were kept relatively private, the Travoltas always described him as gentle, kind, and full of life. He had a history of seizures and was later diagnosed with autism, something John and Kelly rarely discussed publicly until after his passing — out of love and protection.
In January 2009, during a family vacation in the Bahamas, Jett tragically suffered a fatal seizure. The news shook fans and Hollywood alike. John later described the loss as “the worst thing that’s ever happened in my life,” and took a significant step back from the public eye to grieve with his family.
In the years since, John has opened up more — not in overshare, but in reverence. Each birthday tribute is short, simple, and straight from the heart. His latest post is no exception: just a single sentence, paired with a quiet photo that says everything words can’t.
A Father’s Grief, A Family’s Love
While Jett’s loss left a permanent mark on the Travolta family, it also brought them closer in unexpected ways. Kelly Preston, who passed away in 2020 after a private battle with breast cancer, once spoke about Jett as “the most wonderful son,” and praised his resilience.
Together, John and Kelly later welcomed two more children — daughter Ella Bleu, now 24 and following in her parents' Hollywood footsteps, and son Benjamin, born in 2010, who John once said “brought us a new breath of life.”
Travolta’s parenting style post-Jett has felt like a love letter to all three of his children. Whether he's posting dance clips with Ella, sharing quiet beach moments with Ben, or lighting a virtual candle for Jett, his devotion is crystal clear.
Why Fans Still Feel This One
The Travolta family has long been beloved, but their vulnerability in grief — especially John's — is what keeps fans connected. In an industry that often buries pain behind PR smiles, John’s openness is rare. And comforting.
Every year, Jett’s birthday sparks fresh waves of remembrance from longtime fans. Comments flood in like:
“I’ve followed your family for decades. Thinking of you today.”
“Jett is forever loved. Thank you for sharing him with us.”
