Linda Thompson Opens Up About Brody Jenner’s Relationship with Caitlyn Jenner

Linda Thompson recently shared her perspective on the strained relationship between her son, Brody Jenner, and his father, Caitlyn Jenner, during an exclusive interview at the Cure Addiction Now’s Inaugural Fundraising Evening. Thompson, who was married to Caitlyn from 1981 to 1986, revealed that Caitlyn was largely absent during the formative years of their sons, Brandon and Brody. “He was absolutely right. [Caitlyn] was not there,” Thompson stated, emphasizing that Caitlyn’s lack of involvement was evident even during significant life events like birthdays, holidays, and the Northridge earthquake. Thompson’s comments highlight the emotional distance that has long defined Brody and Caitlyn’s relationship.

The Estranged Relationship: A Family’s Painful Past

Thompson reflected on how Brandon, Brody’s older brother, stepped into a paternal role, teaching Brody essential life skills like riding a bike and playing baseball. However, she also noted that Caitlyn’s absence left a lasting impact on both sons. “There were years that would go by when [Caitlyn] didn’t call them, didn’t see them, no ‘Happy Birthday,’ no ‘Merry Christmas,’ no, ‘You guys OK after the Northridge earthquake?’ Nothing,” Thompson recalled. This emotional neglect has been a recurring theme in Brody’s public discussions about his relationship with Caitlyn, including during his recent stint on Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test. Thompson’s words underscore the pain and sense of abandonment that Brody and Brandon endured during their childhood.

A Call for Accountability and Forgiveness

Despite the past hurts, Thompson shared that she has recently spoken to Caitlyn about her absence and the consequences of her actions. “I said, ‘You know, sometimes truth comes around to bite you in the butt. You have to be accountable for the things that you did and didn’t do as a parent,’” Thompson revealed. While she expressed uncertainty about Caitlyn’s willingness to fully acknowledge her shortcomings, Thompson emphasized that both Brody and Brandon have shown remarkable forgiveness. “We all are, and Caitlyn comes to all family events, and we all love her. The truth hurts sometimes, and she was not there,” Thompson added, suggesting that the family is working toward healing while acknowledging the pain of the past.

A New Chapter: Grandparenthood and Family Healing

Thompson and Caitlyn have found common ground as grandparents to Brandon and Brody’s children. Brandon, a father of four, and Brody, who welcomed his first child, daughter Honey, with fiancée Tia Blanco in 2023, have brought new joy into the family. Thompson, who is clearly smitten with her grandchildren, noted that Caitlyn’s presence at family events has been a positive step toward healing. While the past remains a sensitive topic, the family’s ability to reunite and celebrate new life offers a hopeful glimpse into their evolving dynamics. Grandparenthood seems to have brought Caitlyn closer to her children and grandchildren, creating opportunities for reconciliation and shared love.

Brody Jenner’s Transformation into Fatherhood

Thompson couldn’t help but gush about Brody’s journey from a single life in Los Angeles to a settled-down dad in Malibu. “He’s an incredible daddy,” she said, describing how Brody adores his daughter, Honey. Thompson shared adorable anecdotes about Brody’s interactions with his child, highlighting how parenthood has brought out the best in him. “They send me little videos of things that she does during the day, and she does this funny little side eye thing, and Brody’s always going, ‘Honey, give me a side eye and twirl for Daddy,’” she shared with a smile. Thompson also praised Brody’s fiancée, Tia Blanco, calling her “an exquisite human being” with a “purity of soul” and an amazing mother to Honey. Brody’s transition into fatherhood has not only brought him joy but has also transformed him into a more grounded and responsible individual.

Conclusion: Love, Forgiveness, and Family Bond

In summary, Linda Thompson’s insights into Brody Jenner’s relationship with Caitlyn Jenner paint a complex picture of family dynamics, marked by both pain and progress. While Caitlyn’s absence during Brody’s childhood left lasting scars, the family has taken steps toward healing through forgiveness and shared experiences. The arrival of new generations—Brandon’s four children and Brody’s daughter, Honey—has brought fresh joy and unity to the family. Thompson’s words highlight the resilience of love and the power of forgiveness in overcoming past wounds. As Brody embraces his role as a father and Caitlyn engages more actively as a grandparent, the family continues to navigate their journey toward closer ties and mutual understanding.