Michael Strahan Shares He’s a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

As I delve into the captivating narrative of Michael Strahan‘s life, I am struck by his journey – one that is as remarkable off the field as it was during his illustrious football career. His daughters, Sophia and Isabella, are shining examples of resilience, intelligence, and grace. Their academic achievements, coupled with their father’s heartfelt congratulations on social media, speak volumes about the love and pride he has for them.


Michael Strahan just added a new role to his ever-growing resume: grandpa.

The 52-year-old shared that his eldest daughter Tanita Strahan has welcomed her first child.

On September 22nd, during the Fox NFL Sunday broadcast, analyst Howie Long assisted the Good Morning America co-host in delivering the news, exclaiming, “Congratulations, Grandpa.” (Implying that someone had become a grandfather.)

Absolutely, Michael confirmed that he is a grandfather to multiple grandchildren. He has two with his ex-wife Tanita (age 32), whom he also shares a son named Michael Strahan Jr. (age 31) with. Additionally, he has two more, Isabella and Sophia (both 19 years old), from another ex-wife, Jean Muggli. He also mentioned that one of his granddaughters is named Onyx, which means black in color.

He mentioned that all of his co-anchors on Fox NFL Sunday are grandfathers, and then said, “I understand you’ve all been there. I’m pleased to now join that exclusive club.

Participating in the festivities, Curt Menefee conveyed his well wishes, saying, “Everyone from our family. Kudos to all.

Michael recently shared some delightful family news about Tanita, who spent most of her childhood in Germany under the care of her mother Wanda following their parents’ divorce in 1996. Interestingly enough, Michael has hinted at the resemblances he shares with his oldest child in past conversations.

In 2013, he told New York Family that she shares some similarities with him, particularly a powerful personality, but one that’s quiet and understated. Unlike someone who would dominate a room, she doesn’t seek the spotlight. However, she has a clear opinion, is intelligent, and knows what she desires, which he admires in her.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

2021 was a year filled with ups and downs for the popular TV host, as his daughter Isabella revealed her brain cancer diagnosis in January. Over the ensuing period, she chronicled her treatment experiences until receiving the news of being cancer-free in July.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

Back then, I couldn’t help but root for Isabella every step of the way, making it a point to be present at most of her treatment sessions. Moreover, I became a frequent face in her cancer journey vlog, eagerly sharing her story with the world.

In a June 16 Instagram post, Michael expressed his pride by saying, “You’re incredibly strong and resilient, Isabella Strahan. Your courage shines through as you ring that bell after completing chemotherapy and continue to fight with grace and determination. I am so proud of you, my dear daughter! With all my love, Dad.

For more on Michael’s beautiful blended family, read on.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

In 1992, Michael Strahan tied the knot with Wanda Hutchins, a few months prior to being drafted as the 40th pick by the New York Giants in the 1993 NFL Draft.

Daughter Tanitha was born Nov. 10, 1991, and son Michael Jr. arrived Sept. 12, 1994.

In 1996, Wanda and Michael ended their marriage, and their son Michael Jr. along with Tanita mostly resided in Germany with their mother.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

From the start, it mattered greatly to Michael that he stayed engaged in their lives, as he shared with People magazine back in 2016. He was frequently traveling and communicating over the phone. It’s challenging…but here’s the key lesson: you find the time for what truly matters to you.

Still, the Super Bowl winner has admitted to some regrets from his days as a young father. 

In an episode of Brooke Shields’ podcast “What Now” in August 2023, Michael shared that he didn’t have a clear idea about his future. He was certain he’d work hard and make the most of any opportunity that came his way, but he acknowledged it wasn’t easy.

Speaking further, the Pro Football Hall of Famer expressed regret, stating that “at such a young age,” he had children and numerous responsibilities. Looking back, he wishes he could have handled parenting better because there were many instances where he should have given up some things to be more available.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

In other words, Michael added, “there have been moments when I’ve reflected and realized that to offer the kind of life I’ve given them, I had to make many sacrifices.

According to People magazine, after some time, Michael Junior and Tanita returned to the United States and completed their high school education in Houston, where their father was originally from. Later on, Michael Jr. pursued a degree in psychology, while Tanita focused on art studies at college.

In 2012, Michael said that Tanita is similar to him in having a robust personality, though hers is more subtle. He explained to New York Family that she doesn’t draw attention to herself by entering a room and dominating the conversation. Instead, she has a clear opinion, is intelligent, and knows what she desires, which he admires about her.

He called Michael Jr. a “very smart” and “very particular young man.”

In essence, Michael expressed, “My children are truly remarkable, and they don’t simply emulate my lifestyle by saying ‘Dad is this’ or ‘Dad is that.’ Instead, they forge their unique paths. Each of them possesses a distinct personality and follows their individual pursuits. I find great joy in observing their independence.

 Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

In 2014, Tanita completed her education at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, and based on her Instagram posts, she currently resides and works as an illustrator in Los Angeles.

In 2018, mom Wanda posted on Instagram about her daughter: “She’s turned out to be a truly remarkable woman. It’s been a great honor for me to journey through her growing years and beyond. She’s resourceful, steadfast, and above all, compassionate.

That very year on Michael Jr.’s birthday, Wanda penned down, “His witty sarcasm, intellect, self-discipline, and kindness are sources of inspiration for me.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

Michael met second wife Jean at a New York spa, where she was working at the time.

In 1999, I was overjoyed when my idols, Michael and Jean, tied the knot. However, as their relationship hit turbulent waters in 2006—a time that left fans like me heartbroken—reports from the New York Times revealed a prenuptial agreement. This contract, signed at the start of their journey together, ensured that 20% of Michael’s annual earnings would be set aside for Jean, should their union not stand the test of time.

The defensive end signed a seven-year, $46 million contract with the Giants in 2002.

Reflecting on the past, Michael shared with People in 2016 that going through a divorce was incredibly challenging for him. However, it also served as a valuable learning experience. He discovered more about himself and gained insights into many individuals who were part of his life during that time. Regrettably, some of those people are no longer around.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

On a sunnier note, Michael and Jean welcomed twin daughters Isabella and Sophia on Oct. 28, 2004.

According to Michael, Isabella, the somewhat elder one, tends to be quite playful and laid-back. She rarely becomes overly upset or excited, instead maintaining a calm demeanor. Michael described her as someone who accepts things as they come, saying, “She’s very ‘Whatever happens, happens.’

Sophia constantly exhibits a thirst for knowledge, showing great curiosity. They are both remarkably intelligent and enjoy delving into topics that I hadn’t considered reading about until much later in my life, around the age of 7 or 8. What strikes me as remarkable is their intrinsic interest in these subjects.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

In 2016, Michael expressed to People that his children were brought up differently compared to how he was raised, but the love for them remains unchanged. He further clarified that, despite their separation, he and Jean have been jointly parenting effectively for a decade since their divorce, and their faith in their children is consistent.

As it transpired, Isabella and Sophia, who split their time between living with their mother in North Dakota and North Carolina, seemed to have inherited their father’s talent for appearing naturally on camera.

In 2016, Michael shared with People that the twins he’s talking about lead an exhilarating life. Once, they even traveled to Washington D.C. for a live interview with the First Lady on Good Morning America. The very next day, their mother sent him a video of them enjoying horseback rides and playing in a muddy cornfield.

Throughout the academic year, “I board a flight to visit my children,” he explained. “Whenever they have a break, they travel to New York. The most challenging part is when they depart; our home just doesn’t feel the same…They may not be the first kids, and I might not be the first parent to experience this, but we’ve all managed as best as we can.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

In an interview with People, Michael said, “I had concerns about how well the children would get along since they have different mothers, but in the end, siblings remain siblings no matter the difference.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

Michael stated that his children provide him with energy. He cherishes their company deeply, considering them as the core of his life, especially at this moment in time.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

In May 2023, Sophia completed her studies at New York City’s Trinity School, following which she headed off to Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.

The father of the Blue Devil wrote on Instagram that you are smart, attractive, and he eagerly anticipates witnessing all the fantastic achievements you will make at Duke.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

In June 2023, Isabella’s family rejoiced over her graduation from the Convent of the Sacred Heart, and Michael enthusiastically supported her as she was accepted into the University of Southern California.

As a devoted admirer, I exclaimed on Instagram, “Truly brilliant, striking, and diligent! I eagerly anticipate your continued brilliance! You have my heart!

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

In January 2024, Isabella announced – accompanied by her father – that she was receiving treatment for brain cancer, which she had been diagnosed with in October of the previous year, specifically with a type of tumor called a medulloblastoma.

After undergoing surgery and radiation treatments, there was still chemotherapy left for her. However, during an interview with Robin Roberts on Good Morning America, Isabella expressed her excitement about returning to college in California and resuming her academic journey. She didn’t say she was done, but rather she was eager to restart, to get back into a familiar routine and enjoy the experience once more.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

In the year 2007, Michael and Nicole began a relationship that lasted for five years. Nicole has five children from her previous marriage with Eddie Murphy. The couple parted ways in the year 2014.

According to Michael’s representative, they deeply care for each other, yet due to the distance and demanding work schedules, keeping their relationship going has proven challenging.

Michael Strahan Shares He's a Grandfather After Daughter Welcomes Son

Since the year 2015, Michael has been in a romantic partnership with Kayla, who graduated from the University of Tampa and is one of the founders of the health supplement company FIZZNESS.

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2024-09-23 18:51