Sir Rod Stewart has thrilled fans for over six decades with his unmistakable raspy voice, chart-topping hits, and rebellious charm. With over 120 million records sold, two Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions, and a knighthood to his name, Stewart’s accomplishments on stage are legendary. But offstage, perhaps his most profound—and complex—role has been that of a father.
Now, in a candid reflection, the music icon sheds light on the often-overlooked role that has shaped him more than fame ever could: parenting.
A Family as Complex as His Career
Rod Stewart became a father at just 17, when his then-girlfriend Susannah Boffey gave birth to his first child, Sarah Streeter. Lacking the tools and readiness for fatherhood at the time, Stewart supported an adoption decision that led to decades of estrangement. In recent years, the two have slowly rebuilt their relationship.
“It’s taken time. He’s not just my dad, is he? He’s a big star… But now he’s just ‘Dad’ to me,” Sarah shared in 2018.
His willingness to acknowledge past missteps and seek reconciliation reflects a maturity and vulnerability that often contrasts with his rock star image.
With first wife Alana Stewart, he welcomed Kimberly and Sean. Their upbringing, however, came with its own struggles—especially Sean’s battle with substance abuse, which led to an appearance on Celebrity Rehab.
Rod admitted to being more lenient than his own father had been, but later questioned whether his softer approach helped or hindered.
“A couple dabbled with drugs, but that’s all done now,” he said in a 2023 interview with Haute Living, revealing an evolving perspective on discipline and support.
Parenting Across Generations and Households
Stewart’s blended family spans generations, continents, and life stages. In a 2021 People interview, he acknowledged that he had to become “several different fathers” to meet the needs of children at various ages and circumstances.
His children Ruby, Renee, and Liam—born from later relationships—also experienced the disruptions of breakups and distance. Yet Stewart made it a priority to be present for big moments, such as walking Liam down the aisle at his wedding.
His two youngest sons, Alastair and Aiden, born to current wife Penny Lancaster, brought yet another parenting chapter. Penny, a strong presence in their lives, took the lead in uniting all the children under one roof during family events.
Still, Stewart’s parenting style stirred conversations—especially his use of unorthodox tactics like confiscating Xbox privileges or using the family dog as a discipline example. Some called it “shock parenting,” while others appreciated the structured approach.
Lessons Learned and Regrets Owned
What makes Stewart’s parenting journey especially compelling is his openness about the emotional complexities involved. He speaks honestly about the pain of missing time with his children due to touring, and how that absence shaped his renewed dedication to being present.
“When I’m on the road, I miss my family so much… they’re a wonderful luxury when I come home,” he told People.
He’s also embraced his children’s passions—from supporting Alastair’s modeling to celebrating new grandchildren—while confronting the emotional challenges of reconnecting with children he once felt distanced from.
“At first it was hard to feel like [Sarah] was my own,” he admitted of his eldest daughter. “But I’ve made peace with that. I’m her dad now.”
A Legacy Beyond the Stage
Rod Stewart’s journey as a father is not just a tale of fame and family—it’s a deeply human story of trial, growth, and redemption. For all his stage lights and accolades, it’s his role as a father—flawed but evolving—that may define his legacy most of all.
