"I'm so proud": Karl's sweet tribute to his daughter
Karl Stefanovic has paid tribute to his daughter on her 18th birthday.
The Today host was every inch the proud dad as he shared a carousel of pictures to Instagram to celebrate Willow's big day.
“Happy birthday to our 18 year old goddess. I'm so proud of you. I will love you forever. And beyond,” he wrote.
The photos chronicle Willow and her dad’s relationship throughout the years, with one very sweet snap showing a front toothless Willow looking delighted on the shoulders of her father.
Another shows Willow partying with her stepmother, Jasmine Stefanovic, and cradling her baby sister, Harper.
The post welcomed a series of well wishes for the teenager's milestone birthday, with Christian Wilkins commenting, "you’re hot 🫶🏼 happy birthday!"
Jasmine Stefanovic commented a series of hearts and emojis of champagne bottles popping, while one longtime Today show viewer wrote, "Happy Birthday Willow 🎂 I feel old lol I remember watching Today Show the day she was born."
Karl has always played the role of the supportive dad, encouraging Willow to chase her dreams when she debuted her modelling career in 2021 with a major photoshoot.
“Since I was a little girl I’ve been drawn to modelling, but thankfully Mum has such a sensible head, she always said when you’re old enough to make the decision that’s what you really want, then I will do everything to support you,” she told Stellar magazine.
“(Dad) backs me 100 per cent as long as I’m happy,” Willow added. “We all know I didn’t get my fashionista gene from him.”
Karl said his family would support Willow "wherever her heart takes her", as he credited her strong spirit and work ethic.
“She doesn’t go into anything blindly, especially the fashion world. She’s a strong, independent young woman and wants to pursue lots of things in life. We love her spirit,” he said.
Image credits: Instagram