Jeff Brazier shared an emotional family moment as he hosted a farewell gathering for his son Bobby Brazier before the young actor begins a major new chapter in New Jersey.

The 47-year-old presenter posted a touching photo from the celebration at their family home, revealing that the evening was filled with “lots of emotion” for more than one reason. Not only was Bobby preparing to leave for his new adventure abroad, but the gathering also fell on what would have been Jade Goody’s 45th birthday.

Jade, Bobby’s mother, sadly passed away in March 2009 at the age of 27 following a short battle with cervical cancer. Her memory has remained deeply present in the lives of her sons, Bobby and Freddy, and this latest family moment appeared to carry both pride and heartbreak.

Jeff wrote that it had been “a wonderful little gathering,” explaining that several loved ones had come together to wish Bobby safe travels before his upcoming move.

“There were a few people wanting to wish Bobby safe travels because he soon departs for his NY adventures,” Jeff shared. “I’m going to miss him so much.”

He added that the night was also a chance “to raise a glass” for Jade on what would have been her birthday, admitting that the emotions were overwhelming.

“Lots of emotions swirling as you can imagine,” he continued, before saying he planned to move his body before having to properly say goodbye to his son.

Bobby, 23, recently revealed that he is preparing to move to the United States, clarifying that while he had said New York, he will actually be living in New Jersey. The move is expected to happen in July.

The EastEnders star has enjoyed a huge rise in public attention over the past few years. He joined the BBC soap in 2022 as Freddie Slater and later won the National Television Award for Rising Star. His popularity soared even further after his emotional run on Strictly Come Dancing, where he finished as runner-up behind Ellie Leach.

One of Bobby’s most memorable Strictly performances was dedicated to his late mother Jade, moving viewers across the country and reminding many of the deep personal story behind his public smile.

Speaking previously about fame, Bobby admitted that life in the spotlight had changed certain things, joking that he had “spent lots of money” after becoming a household name. However, he insisted he remained grounded and focused on his own path.

He also laughed about the attention he received from older female fans during Strictly, saying many seemed to enjoy his dancing — especially his hips.

Last year, Bobby also drew attention after sharing his interest in the Hare Krishna faith on Instagram, posting about chanting and spirituality. Reports at the time suggested he had been considering time away from the UK and his career, though his latest move now appears to be taking him across the Atlantic.

For Jeff, the farewell gathering was clearly more than just a goodbye party. It was a bittersweet family milestone — a proud father watching his son step into the world, while also remembering the woman who never got to see the man Bobby has become.

As Bobby prepares for life in New Jersey, the evening seemed to capture everything at once: love, loss, pride, memory and the painful beauty of letting go.