Madonna ends 'troubled relationship' with late stepmom Joan Ciccone on sad note as she skips her memorial
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Madonna was notably absent from the memorial service for her late stepmother, Joan Ciccone, which took place today.
The 66-year-old pop icon is said to be heartbroken over Joan's death, but sources suggest her attendance was highly unlikely.
Family and friends honor Joan Ciccone's memory amid complex relationships
The visitation took place on October 3 at Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home in Traverse City, Michigan.
Family members came together during the service to pray the rosary for Joan Ciccone, who died on September 24 at the age of 81 after a brief fight with an aggressive form of cancer, according to Radar Online.
At the time of her death, Joan was caring for Madonna’s father, Silvio "Tony" Ciccone, who has Parkinson’s disease.
In Madonna's absence, many who couldn't attend the service shared their condolences and cherished memories on Joan’s online obituary.
Despite becoming a part of Madonna's life when she married her father at a young age, their relationship was complex and often troubled.
Sources reveal that Madonna is struggling with the impact of Joan’s death, viewing it as a significant loss that emphasizes her own mortality.
Madonna reflects on family loss amid ongoing health struggles
A close source disclosed, “Madonna and Joan Ciccone had their very, very well-known differences and a really, really troubled relationship."
"But with Joan’s passing, Madonna feels a part of her family slipping away, which has made her reflect deeply on her own life,” they added.
This loss comes on the heels of Madonna's own health challenges, leading to increased reclusiveness and concern among her friends and family regarding her emotional well-being.
A Mass of Christian Burial is set to be held on October 4 at 11 am, but Madonna is not expected to be in attendance.
An insider mentioned, “Madonna is devastated by this loss, but given the tumultuous history between them, it was not anticipated that she would show up. Her presence might have overshadowed the service, and she wouldn’t want to detract from the occasion.”
Madonna opens up about challenging relationship with stepmother Joan Ciccone
Madonna discussed her relationship with Joan Ciccone in a 2002 interview with Larry King, acknowledging her difficulties in accepting her stepmother.
"I sometimes suffered amid moments of chaos. I didn't accept my stepmother when I was growing up. In retrospect, I think that was really hard on her," she said, according to People.
The pop star has opened up about the challenges she encountered in her relationship with Joan during her younger years.
As reported by People magazine, Madonna noted in an earlier interview that she "didn't have any relationship" with Joan, which resulted in a lack of role models during her formative years.
