Michael Owen said it was difficult to teach his kids the 'reality of life' after living such a privileged life.
The former Liverpool star has spoken out on how difficult it was to raise his children whilst keeping them attached to reality after recent claims his daughter is spoiled. The 42-year-old was forced to defend his daughter, Gemma Owen, after comments surfaced she doesn't know what the "real world" is like following her appearance on Love Island.
Gemma, who is now coupled up with islander Luca Bish, received nonstop backlash as ITV2 was accused of making "the Gemma show" after the majority of footage shown revolved around her.
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Given she lives in a £4 million Cheshire mansion with her family, many also claim she was added to the show's line-up because of her father's celebrity influence and remains to be spoiled by him.
Michael has hit back at the claims, stating how underprivileged his own upbringing was. He said: "I had nothing when I was growing up, but when you get a bit of success, a bit of money, your kids grow up with all the big houses, big cars. They fly business class and they think it’s normal.
"How do you show them the reality? You try. I’ve booked economy class seats and been b******ed by my kids, but you still try."
Their home boasts an indoor swimming pool, private gym, bar and cinema room as well as 42 acres of land and stables for 12 horses, which has helped her achieve some of her equestrian dreams, as she competes in international dressage competitions, the Mirror reported. After his successful football career, and his successful move into race horsing, Michael is said to be worth over £50million.
Despite Gemma's mixed reception by viewers, it's been reported she's already been offered to star in a brand new reality show when her Love Island journey comes to an end. The new reality show, will apparently "expose the world of footballers' daughters".
A source speaking to new! magazine said: "It will follow their everyday lives and dramas, giving viewers insight into what it's really like for young girls in the spotlight of their famous fathers.
"There's no denying Love Island has been the Gemma Show this year, and it's not surprising the production companies are desperate to capitalise on that."
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