Why we can finally tell the truth after 11 years of hell
TV’S first family is finally rejoicing again after years of heartache
Bert and Patti Newton have only ever wanted the best for their son. So when Matthew spiralled out of control in 2006 and was arrested for assaulting his then girlfriend, actress Brooke Satchwell, they were devastated.
What followed was a long and very public downfall, which saw Matthew’s battles with mental illness, his substance issues and further alleged violent assaults flung into the spotlight.
For years, Patti, 72, and Bert, 78, have done all they can to put on a brave face. They’ve rarely spoken about Matt’s battles, in a bid to separate their private pain from their public image and keep their family together.
Now, after Matthew revealed last week that he “hasn’t touched a drink in five years”, Bert and Patti are finally free. No longer do they have to hide their pain at their son’s behaviour, and they couldn’t be more delighted that Matthew has turned his life around.
New York-based Matt, 40, is currently enjoying renewed success thanks to his recent directorial effort From Nowhere. He has also reignited his acting career with a small role in the thriller Wasn’t Afraid to Die.
“Matt is definitely happier now than he has been for years,” a neighbour in the US tells Woman’s Day exclusively.
“He’s clearly happy with the success of his film and rightly so. It’s meant he’s being much more positive about 2017.
“He’s worked very hard over the past few years and now it’s time to enjoy life,” the source adds. “He’s turned his life around.”
Adding to Bert and Patti’s joy is Matthew’s newfound happiness with fiancee Catherine Schneiderman, 23, who he’s tipped to wed later this year.
“Cat’s really happy with him and is looking forward to being Mrs Newton. She’s very proud the movie has been a success,” our insider says. “He and Cat have been engaged for nearly a year and he thinks the time is now right to push ahead with the wedding.
“It’s the best year he’s had in 10 years, without a doubt.”