In a remarkably candid revelation, music legend Sir Rod Stewart has opened up about his final wishes, expressing his desire to be laid to rest in the garden of his family home alongside his beloved cavapoo, Bubbles.
A Family Conversation About The Inevitable
The 80-year-old rock star shared these intimate details during a recording for BBC One's My Life At Christmas, where he and his wife, Penny Lancaster, were interviewed by journalist Anita Rani at their sprawling Durrington House estate. The couple did not shy away from discussing topics often considered taboo, with Rod reportedly stating, "You don't want to talk about the end but he's like 'Look it happens to all of us'."
Penny Lancaster elaborated on her husband's unconventional request, suggesting the creation of a family cemetery on their property. "Maybe we'll have a family cemetery," she said, "then it has to be in the deed of the property - you buy the property, you have to maintain the cemetery of the Stewarts!"
An Emotional Tribute From a Devoted Wife
Speaking to The Mirror ahead of the television special's airing on December 7, Penny shared a deeply heartfelt message for her husband of 18 years. Her words underscored the profound bond they share, a sentiment that clearly moved her during the conversation.
"To think of what a gift it is to have found one another and have brought this family so close to one another, it brings a lump to my throat," she emotionally confessed, highlighting the strength of their relationship and the family they have built together.
Life Beyond The Heavy Topics
The television special promises an intimate look into the lives of the iconic couple. According to the programme's blurb, viewers can expect "a rare in-depth interview" where Sir Rod and Penny will discuss their lives, family, fame, and faith. The show will feature a fireside chat, Christmas crafting, and a stroll around their countryside home, reflecting on Rod’s rise to fame and Penny's journey from model to special constable.
Away from the emotional discussions about the future, the rock star was recently spotted enjoying one of his great passions: football. Just last Thursday, Rod braved the cold in the Netherlands to watch his beloved Celtic beat Feyenoord 3-1. He was joined by his 19-year-old son, Alastair, whom he shares with Penny. The father-son duo, who frequently attend matches together, were in high spirits cheering on their team. Rod has previously described Alastair as his "little best friend."
The family's strong bond was further evidenced by a recent backstage photo from Rod's performance in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Penny shared the image of Rod with their sons, Alastair and 14-year-old Aiden, simply gushing over "my boys." During this South American trip, Rod was named a Guest of Honour after playing three sold-out shows to 15,000 fans a night, even receiving an Argentina football kit with his name on the back.