Martine McCutcheon's mum reveals real reason she's estranged from daughter after tragedy
Following the tragic death of Martine McCutcheon's younger brother Laurence John in 2022, the actress and singer was left devastated. But it wasn't just the death of her beloved brother that broke her heart, the relationship between her and her mother Jenny Tomlin also started to crumble, leaving the pair estranged.
At the time of Laurence's death, who was only 31 at the time, Martine, 49, famous for her role in EastEnders and the iconic film Love Actually, Martine revealed that her heart is "forever broken."
In an interview with OK! Magazine, Jenny explains that it was her fault their relationship fell apart. She admits that she suffered an emotional breakdown and ended up pushing Martine further and further away.
But she is now desperate to reconcile.
Recalling their close bond, Jenny told the publication: "We did all the wonderful stuff – the premiere of Love Actually, the restaurants – but the memories I cherish are of us just sitting on my bed, bringing up old memories and laughing. I miss that."
Explaining her mindset at the time, Jenny continued: "When I lost LJ, I detached. I was so heartbroken I couldn't talk to Martine."
She added: "There was no big row – Martine tried to contact me for months, but I didn't answer. Martine was grieving and needed me, too. I want the chance to say sorry. I miss her so much – it physically hurts."
Last year, Martine reached out to Jenny but their reunion was anything but the one she had hoped for as little was discussed in order for them to move forward.
Martine had asked if Jenny's husband could do "some painting" in her new home. She explained that she literally jumped at the opportunity to visit her daughter in a bid to mend their fractured relationship - but instead their union felt "awkward" and "the atmosphere felt heavy."
Jenny has now gone as far as to liken her split with Martine with Victoria Beckham, who is reportedly going through the same thing with her eldest son Brooklyn Beckham.
Laurence, who was known to family and friends as LJ, did not drink alcohol or smoke, but had suffered with acute ischaemic heart disease and diabetes.
Realising the error of her ways at the time, Jenny candidly admits that she had "abandoned" Martine as she was "so wrapped up in my own grief that I was neglecting my other child."
Jenny explains that the reason for her interview is to hopefully show Martine that she is ready to put the past behind her.
She explained that she has called, text and sent cards to the mum of one but has had no response. She had even driven to her house and shouted her name out. But again was faced with silence.
Jenny hopes that one day she could have a cup of tea with her daughter while her grandson plays in her garden.
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