Rhianna Benson
Kate Ferdinand is this week throwing the fairytale stereotype of the 'evil step-mother' totally out of the window.
In fact, in a sweet tribute posted to Instagram, the former TOWIE star - who is married to football hero Rio Ferdinand - honoured her beloved step-daughter Tia, claiming that being welcomed into their family was the best thing to happen to her.
For those unfamiliar with Kate and Rio's story, the duo first met all the way back in 2016, after being introduced to one another by mutual friends whilst holidaying in Dubai.
Advert
The made their relationship official in the months that followed, and tied the knot in front of their friends and family in 2019.
It was then that Kate opted to quit her on-screen role in The Only Way Is Essex, with the aim of becoming a full-time step-mum to Rio's three children - Lorenz, 16, Tate, 14, and Tia, 11 - from his previous marriage to his late wife Rebecca Ellison.
Rebecca tragically died following a battle with breast cancer in 2015, just six years after she and Rio married.
Since being welcomed into their family, Kate has frequently opened up about her initial difficulty in adjusting to her new life as a step-mother, but claims the children themselves supported her every step of the way.
Advert
And this week, the former TV star - who with Rio also shares sons Cree, three, and Shae, seven-months - chose to give a very special shoutout to her step-daughter Tia.
Sharing a video of the duo hand-in-hand as they walk along the beach, Kate claimed she 'couldn't live without' the teen.
"It can be tough coming in as a step mum to a young girl that has lost her mum but over the years, the ups & downs, the judgements from others, the beautiful and the confusing moments a beautiful bond has been created," she captioned the post.
Advert
"It’s a privilege to step in and look after you as a mother would. We drive each other crazy at times but we also couldn’t imagine life without each other.
"As long as we get us, no one else needs to. This is an extra special love & it really is unconditional."
She also confessed in the comments: "I keep watching this and crying".
Advert
And since Kate's honorary post to Tia, countless fans have issued their thoughts of admiration to the star.
"Her mum will be shining down so happy she's got you in her life", one penned.
Another went on: "I think you are allowing so many families to navigate their journeys with confidence and kindness"
"If only all step mums where like you," a third added.