Jeff Brazier has opened up on the parenting challenges he faced after Jade Goody's death, admitting he had "100% lost the ability to play" after shouldering so much responsibility for 15 years.

The TV presenter is currently competing in Celebrity Race Across The World alongside youngest son Freddy, one of his two children from his relationship with Big Brother star Goody.

He and Freddy spoke about how living with grief had changed their family dynamic and affected their relationship as they vowed to make some changes.

Jeff and Freddy Brazier have quickly become fan favourites with Celebrity Race Across The World viewers, but despite appearing cheerful on their travels the father and son opened up on the devastating loss they had been living with since Jade Goody's death.

TV presenter Jeff was in a relationship with Big Brother star Goody from 2002 to 2004 and they had two sons together, Freddy and EastEnders star Bobby, before Goody passed away from cervical cancer in 2009 leaving Jeff to bring up the boys who were aged four and five at the time.

Jeff said in the most recent episode of the BBC show: "Independence for Fred is the name of the game, really. I think when the boys lost their mum, I really doubled down on putting all of my time, effort, attention, focus on my children. I needed to be there helping them navigate whatever the future was going to look like for them given their loss. I'm still playing that role.

"But the more Fred does for himself, I know that he can start to push on in life...I really hope this sends him home with a fresh belief in himself and what he can do and what he should try."

Freddy added: "At the time I lost my mum, Dad had to push his feelings and all of that aside to be there for me and my brother. At times where I've pushed him away, he's pulled even harder to bring me back in. I have not been that close with him for a long time now. But I actually quite love being around him.

"I don't think I praise my dad enough or thank my dad enough for everything he's done for me. I should, he knows the love. But I don't tell him enough."

The pair managed to win this week's leg of the race, despite Freddy insisting on stopping off at tourist sites that he thought his dad would enjoy.

As Jeff looked anxious about getting back on the road while Freddy took in the amazing views, he said: "It's hard to switch off and I'm being too serious. Just everything's responsibility, that's what it's been for a long time. I think as a man you probably don't rate your chances of coping so you do what comes naturally to you which is take all the responsibility and just focus on the situation.

"I've absolutely 100% lost the ability to play, but I think that it's something that I need to regain. I need Freddy to show me, really. And I need to get back to what I used to be. I'm sure that's possible."

Jeff's emotional revelation resonated deeply with viewers, who took to social media to express their support and admiration. One fan wrote, "I honestly cannot put into words how much I love Jeff Brazier." Another shared, "Anyone else crying at Freddy and Jeff Brazier? Because I'm a mess." The poignant moment showcased the depth of Jeff's love for his sons and the resilience he has shown in the face of immense loss.

This episode of Celebrity Race Across The World highlighted the emotional toll grief can have on families, particularly on children who are navigating the world without a parent. It also highlighted the importance of communication and understanding within families, especially during times of difficulty.

Jeff and Freddy's Emotional Journey on Race Across The World

Throughout the show, the father-son duo have been open about the challenges they have faced since Jade Goody's death. Jeff has admitted to feeling overwhelmed by responsibility, while Freddy has spoken about his struggles to connect with his father. However, they have also shown immense strength and resilience as they navigate their journey together.

A Father's Love and Resilience

Jeff's willingness to be vulnerable and share his feelings on the show has been praised by viewers. Many have expressed their admiration for his commitment to his sons and his unwavering support for them.

Jeff's journey on Celebrity Race Across The World has been a journey of self-discovery. He has been forced to confront his own grief and the challenges he has faced as a single father. But he has also been able to rediscover his sense of playfulness and find new ways to connect with his son.

A Son's Perspective

Freddy has also been open about his experiences on the show. He has spoken about his desire to be closer to his father and his hope that the race will help him to find his own identity. He has also shared his love and appreciation for his father, expressing his gratitude for everything Jeff has done for him.

Freddy's journey on Celebrity Race Across The World has been a journey of growth. He has been able to step out of his comfort zone and learn more about himself. He has also been able to strengthen his bond with his father and create lasting memories together.

Looking Forward

The journey for Jeff and Freddy on Celebrity Race Across The World is far from over. However, the emotional moments they have shared have touched viewers' hearts and resonated with many who have experienced similar challenges in their own lives. They have shown that even in the face of grief and adversity, families can find strength in each other and come out stronger on the other side.