Christmas has always been a time for family, with loved ones gathering from all corners to indulge in festive celebrations, delicious food and shared laughter. Yet, the concept of a 'traditional' family unit has evolved over time. Nowadays, blended families are more common, whether that's through remarriage involving children from previous relationships or maintaining friendly relations with ex-partners for the sake of the kids.
High-profile examples include Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker, arguably the most famous blended family out there, and her sister Khloé, who co-parents closely with her ex Tristan Thompson to ensure their children True, six, and Tatum, two, have a joyful upbringing, reports OK!.
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Instagram)Ultimately, couples who can set aside their differences - particularly during the holiday season - for the happiness of their children can make a significant positive impact. Relationship expert Tina Wilson emphasises the potential benefits of separated families spending Christmas together, stating "Christmas is primarily a holiday for children."
She told OK!: "If the couple have young children then it would benefit them greatly if both parents were there, even for a short period, to make magical memories for the future." So, whether you're in this situation or know someone who is, let's explore some examples of former couples who have reunited for Christmas...
Chloe Madeley and James Haskell
Chloe Madeley and her daughter Bodhi embarked on a festive family outing to the VIP launch of Christmas at Kenwood in London last year. The 37 year old was accompanied by her parents, Richard and Judy, and her brother Jack, who brought his son along. While the family indulged in some Christmas cheer, Chloe was previously seen having lunch with Bodhi and her ex James Haskell, from whom she split last October.
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Instagram/madeleychloe)Despite a source telling The Sun that a reunion is off the cards, they were "out for a friendly lunch while they still work out how to co-parent." The source added: "Just because they aren't together, it doesn't mean they won't stay friendly," hinting that the separated couple might catch up over the holiday season for little Bodhi's sake.
Paddy and Christine McGuinness
In 2022, Paddy and Christine McGuinness reportedly spent Christmas together despite their split in July of that year. The ex-couple have three children together, twins Leo and Penelope, 11, and Felicity, eight. A source told OK! in 2022 that Christine believes stability is crucial for her kids, and even though the couple were separating, the children still needed a "routine."
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Instagram)"They don't want to disrupt that. Nothing will be different just because they're no longer together," the source revealed. Given that Christine and Paddy have maintained they are still "good friends," and even spent last Christmas together, it's likely they'll continue the tradition this year.
Helen Flanagan and Scott Sinclair
In 2022, Coronation Street actress Helen Flanagan and her partner, footballer Scott Sinclair, called it quits after 13 years. The former couple share three children, Matilda, Delilah and Charlie.
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INSTAGRAM/HELEN FLANAGAN)Two years ago, it was reported that Helen and Scott planned to spend the festive season together for the sake of their children and to maintain a sense of normality. A source shared with OK! at the time: "Despite the split, Helen wants Scott in their children's lives. She's very fond of him and they get on well. She wants him to be around for Christmas so they'll do something as a family. She wants the best for the kids."