Seal recently opened up about his journey as a father and how his children with ex-wife Heidi Klum have grown into remarkable young adults. Speaking candidly, the legendary singer admitted he’s learned from the mistakes he made during their upbringing. With his signature charm and honesty, Seal shared how proud he is of the bond he’s built with his kids and how much they’ve taught him over the years.
“You know, I can’t call them kids anymore—they’re grown now. My sons and daughters that I helped raise, they see that I did my best, even though I wasn’t perfect,” said Seal, 61, in an exclusive interview with People leading up to the 2025 Super Bowl. “As a dad, you want to be perfect for your kids, but the reality is, you’re human. And my kids understand that. They see that I tried my absolute best, and that’s what matters most to them.”
Seal and Heidi’s Family Journey
Seal and Heidi Klum, 51, share a blended family that includes son Henry, 19, son Johan, 18, and daughter Lou, 15. Seal also adopted Heidi’s eldest daughter, Leni, in 2009 when she was just five years old. Now 20, Leni has become a close confidante and source of pride for her dad.
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Reflecting on his role as a father, Seal said, “Now that they’re older, I’ve gained these incredible friendships with them. We can have real, meaningful conversations. It’s amazing to watch them grow into their own people. And as a parent, you learn so much from your mistakes. The key is to always try your best.”
Learning From Mistakes and Building Trust
Seal went on to explain that while he may not have been perfect as a dad, his children value the effort he put into raising them. “As they grow up and become adults themselves, they start to realize just how hard being a parent really is. It’s the toughest job in the world because you’re expected to get it right every single time—but the truth is, you don’t. What matters most is that you tried your best, and my kids see that. They appreciate the effort more than anything.”
The Grammy-winning artist emphasized the importance of trust and communication in parenting. “It’s not about never making mistakes—it’s about owning up to them and showing your kids that you care enough to keep trying. That’s the foundation of any strong relationship, whether it’s with your kids or anyone else in your life.”
Seal and Heidi’s Love Story
Seal and Heidi were married in May 2005 and shared nearly seven years together before splitting in 2012. Their divorce was finalized in 2014, but despite their separation, the couple remains committed to co-parenting their children with love and respect.
Before they had kids together, Seal was already helping raise Leni, whose biological father is Heidi’s ex-boyfriend and former Formula One racing boss Flavio Briatore. From the moment he met Leni, Seal formed a deep bond with her. “From the day I met Heidi, she was pregnant with Leni. We’ve always had this special connection, and it’s only grown stronger over the years,” he fondly recalled.
In recent years, Seal has continued to support Leni as she pursues her dreams. In September 2023, he posted a heartfelt Instagram photo with Leni, who is now studying at New York University. “In NY with the young woman who changed my life for the better 19 years ago. Thank you, Leni, for making me a better person,” he wrote, adding, “Love you, —papa.”
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Seal also expressed pride in his son Henry, who made his modeling debut at Paris Fashion Week in January. When asked about his son’s career aspirations, Seal said, “Listen, I’m proud of whatever my kids choose to do. If Henry was sweeping the streets but was passionate about it, I’d be just as proud as seeing him walk down a catwalk. Passion is what matters most.”
He continued, “If that’s what makes him happy—whether it’s sweeping the streets or modeling on the runway—I’d wake up every morning to see him do it. As a parent, you just want your kids to be happy and fulfilled in whatever path they choose.”
