This Little Boy Ended Up Losing His Wife Then Raising His 2 Kids After Gaining Fame As An Actor
Ruth KamauJan 16, 2026
John Travolta has long been regarded as one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars, with a career spanning decades and iconic roles that made him a household name. Off screen, however, the “Grease” actor’s life has been shaped just as much by family, love and loss.

Travolta shared nearly two decades of marriage with actress Kelly Preston before tragedy changed everything. In 2020, Preston died after a private battle with breast cancer, leaving behind her husband and their two children, daughter Ella Bleu and son Benjamin. Despite the heartbreak, the family has remained close, leaning on one another as they move forward while continuing to honor Preston’s memory.

John Travolta and Kelly Preston together with their two children, Photo Credit: johntravolta/X

This week, that bond was on full display as Travolta marked a major milestone for his youngest child. Benjamin officially turned 14, and proud dad John made sure the moment didn’t go unnoticed.

Taking to Instagram, Travolta shared a lighthearted photo of Benjamin wearing a black T-shirt as the family dog affectionately covered his face in kisses. Alongside the snapshot, the actor wrote a simple but heartfelt message celebrating his son’s birthday and reminding him just how loved he is — both by his father and the family pet.
Ella Bleu also joined in, posting her own tribute. Her photo showed Benjamin sitting peacefully on a boat, gazing toward the horizon as the sun dipped behind mountains in the distance. Dressed casually in a blue T-shirt, Benjamin appeared taller and more mature than fans remembered. Ella’s caption overflowed with sisterly love, wishing him a happy birthday in all caps.

The posts quickly drew attention, not just for the sweet family moments, but for how much Benjamin has grown. Fans flooded the comment sections with birthday wishes, many stunned by how quickly time has passed. Several remarked that they barely recognized him, while others commented on his resemblance to both of his parents.

Some followers also took a moment to remember Kelly Preston, noting that Benjamin appears to carry traits from both his late mother and famous father. The Travolta family has been open about keeping Preston’s legacy alive, frequently sharing throwback photos and tributes on significant dates. John and Ella have both posted about her on Mother’s Day and other occasions, emphasizing that she remains a central part of their lives.

Travolta has previously spoken candidly about the difficult conversations he’s had with his children following their mother’s death. In an emotional interview, he recalled a walk with Benjamin when his son expressed fear of losing his father too. Travolta said he chose honesty, explaining that life is unpredictable and that no one knows how long they have — a lesson rooted in love, not fear.

Now raising his children as a single father, Travolta often shares glimpses of their life together, from family outings to quiet moments at home. Benjamin, born after years of hoping for another child, has clearly grown into a source of joy and strength for the actor.

As Benjamin steps into his teenage years, fans can’t help but notice how much he’s changed — and how deeply surrounded he is by family, support and love.

Greasejohn travoltaBreast CancerKelly Preston
Ruth Kamau
By Ruth Kamau