Ben Shephard Opens Up with Rare Family Photos for Son Jack’s 18th Birthday
Television presenter Ben Shephard just offered fans a rare peek behind the scenes of his family life — and the internet is loving it. To celebrate his youngest son Jack hitting the milestone age of 18, Ben shared a moving Instagram carousel packed with childhood snapshots that have barely seen the light of day. This isn’t the usual Shephard family style, since Ben has always kept his home life fairly private, but this birthday was just too big not to share.
The collection starts at the very beginning: baby Jack wrapped up and gazing at the camera, followed by that unforgettable first day of primary school with a too-big backpack and a nervous grin. Next up are awkward pre-teen phases, messy rooms, and grinning holiday memories. The last image really hits home for fans — father and son, sunburnt and beaming, arm in arm. It’s the kind of family moment everyone wishes they could bottle up for later.
In the caption, Ben let his feelings spill out. "Cannot believe that our little boy is 18!! Where has the time gone?? Soo many memories so many laughs sooo much mess," he wrote, giving a nod to just how fast those years zipped by. He didn’t get too sappy, though — true to form, Ben’s sense of humor shone through: "Couldn’t be more proud of the young man you’re becoming - but mostly excited that you can now legally buy me a beer- I’ll see you at the bar!!"
Cherished Moments and Tight Family Bonds
The photos didn’t focus only on Jack. Several pictures also spotlighted Jack with his older brother Sam, capturing years of brotherly banter and escapades. Their sibling closeness was front and center, and fans spotted their easy smiles in both posed shots and goofier, candid moments. Ben might not post about his boys every day, but when he does, it’s clear just how tight-knit this group is.
Ben, who himself turned 50 in 2024, usually keeps his home life away from TV cameras. He and his wife Annie have raised their boys in Richmond, London, preferring a quiet domestic routine to the chaos of celebrity events. Every so often, though, Ben lets a piece of his personal world slip online — usually for a family milestone, like Jack’s big birthday. These rare glimpses have built up a quiet, loyal following among his fans, who appreciate the honesty and warmth he brings to such posts.
Marking Jack’s 18th is about more than just a legal age for beer runs, though. For parents everywhere, it’s a reminder of how quickly kids grow up and start writing their own stories. If nothing else, Ben’s nostalgic post struck a chord: time flies, so grab those everyday moments while you can.
