Singer Britney Spears is wishing her two sons a happy birthday, but her recent post is causing controversy among fans.
The “Oops!…I Did It Again” singer was married to former backup dancer Kevin Federline from 2004 to 2007. They share two teenage sons: Jayden James and Sean Preston. Jayden turned 16 on Monday, September 12 while Preston will be turning 17 on Wednesday, September 14.
While a happy birthday message to her sons might seem like a sweet gesture, it seems like it may only cause conflict between them… especially because Jayden made it known that the boys don’t want photos of them being shared on social media.
Here’s Why Britney Spears Sharing Birthday Photos Of Her Sons Is So Controversial
In her latest Instagram post, the “Toxic” singer wrote, “Happy birthday Preston and Jayden 🎉🎈!!! Love you both so much 🥰 !!! These photos are from last year !!!”
Some fans showed support for Britney, writing comments like, “You are the best Mama, don’t let anyone tell you different ❤️.” Another fan commented, “Hopefully they come around and realize – they only have one mother. Treat her well. ❤️.”
However, another follower got to the heart of why Britney’s post, which seems innocuous on the surface, is more problematic. “Her son explained over n over again he doesn’t like her to post pictures of him… and yet she just did it again. those poor boys.” Another user agreed, adding, “Should’ve just mailed him a card.”
K-Fed had previously revealed that the boys hadn’t seen their mother in months, in part due to her social media use. Jayden joined his father in one interview with The Daily Mail and revealed his frustrations with his mother’s social media use in his own words.
Jayden Says He’s Asked His Mother To STOP Sharing Photos Of Them On Social Media!
In an interview with The Daily Mail, Jayden said that both he and his brother Preston, who did not appear during the interview, were frustrated with Britney’s use of social media.
Jayden revealed that Preston “asked my mother not to post his photos, and she did it anyway. So it didn’t go well.” K-Fed also indicated that the boys have not seen their mother in months and have cut off contact with her due to their frustrations over her social media use.
During the interview, Jayden said that “social media helps her… So if that’s what she wants to do, that’s what she wants to do. I’m not going to hate her for that.”
“At the same time, she should come to the realization of whatever it is that stops her from loving her family,” he added.
“It’s almost like she has to post something on Instagram to get some attention,” Jayden continued. “This has gone on for years and years and years and there’s a high chance that this will never stop, but I’m hoping for me that she will stop.”
Britney Spears Will Not See Her Sons ‘Until I Feel Valued’
In a deleted Instagram post on Sunday night, the “Hold Me Closer” singer, 40, responded to Jayden’s remarks (via PEOPLE). Britney said that she felt “desperate” and pathetic” for trying to be involved in her sons’ lives, adding that she was “told you guys blocked me.”
Britney said “I’m angry” but added that she does “want to be heard” by her family. She told her sons that she “was desperate to see you guys” but ultimately decided that “honestly, I should have valued myself way more.”
“I’m afraid to inform you guys, I’m not willing to see you until I feel valued,” Britney said, so it doesn’t seem like she will be attempting to visit the boys for her birthday. That being said, she did send them a gift, including a punching bag. She praised their “unbelievable [skills] in the gym” and added that they are “skilled in everything you do.”
“All I know is my love for my children is more than anything and I’m sorry if I ever hurt you guys in any way,” she said, adding, “Jayden and Preston, I adore you.” Britney also told her sons that “I just want you to know” that “I’m so blessed to even call you mine.”
