Bobby Brazier has opened up about the complex relationship with his younger brother Freddy, candidly admitting that Freddy “needs to grow up” but insisting there’s still love and admiration between them.
The 22-year-old EastEnders actor and Strictly Come Dancing star spoke to The Sun following recent reports of a family rift, sparked by Freddy’s tense relationship with their father, Jeff Brazier. Freddy, 20, is said to have moved out of the family home to live with their maternal grandmother, Jackiey Budden.
Adding fuel to the rumours, Freddy reportedly skipped Bobby’s birthday celebrations last month. He also previously announced plans to attend rehab in Marbella to overcome his long-term smoking habit, which began at age 12. However, he later backtracked, saying he didn’t need rehab — just a holiday with good friends.
Despite their differences, Bobby was keen to point out that he sees the good in his brother. “He’s very sensitive and he wants to please people,” Bobby explained. “When he grows up a little bit, that will serve him well.”
He also admitted the sibling bond is far from perfect: “There are things I don’t like about him and there are things about me he doesn’t like.” Yet Bobby revealed a more emotional layer to their relationship, adding: “I don’t know if he looks up to me, but I look up to him in many ways. He’s a good boy.”
The comments follow months of family tension. Earlier this year, reports emerged that Jeff had taken legal steps to limit Freddy’s contact with Jackiey, the mother of their late mum Jade Goody, who died in 2009.
Freddy, meanwhile, has spoken publicly about his internal struggles and the toll of feeling caught in the middle of family dynamics. In a heartfelt message shared online, he said: “I’ve never really felt loved properly because I’ve never loved myself — and it starts now.” He expressed a desire to build healthier relationships, reconnect with his father and grandmother, and pursue sports like boxing and football.
While his plans for rehab may have changed, Freddy made it clear he’s still searching for peace, posting: “Every day is a new story about me and my Nana and father. It’s getting boring now. Mind your business and have a good rest of the week.”
