Patti Newton opens up on ‘complex’ bond with son Matthew

Bert Newton’s widow, Patti, says it’s unlikely their son, Matthew, will return from the US for the TV legend’s funeral, while denying any feud between the pair.

Patti Newton has opened up about the family’s “complex” relationship with son Matthew amid doubts he will attend the funeral of his TV legend father Bert Newton.

Patti denied media reports of a rift with Matthew, a New York-based actor and director, but said he is unlikely to return to Melbourne, following Bert’s death at the weekend.

But an insider said Matthew and Bert had spoken via video calls as the broadcasting icon received palliative care.

The insider described the relationship between the Newtons and their son as “complex”.

“It’s a complex story and a complex relationship,’’ the source said.

“They were FaceTiming and communicating. It’s always been a no-go zone with Patti and Bert and they haven’t wanted to talk about it.”

Matthew Newton. Picture: J Merritt/WireImage

Patti and Matthew Newton at the 2006 Logie Awards.

Matthew, who suffers from bipolar disorder, moved to the US in 2014 following an arrest and domestic violence allegations from two former girlfriends, and has not returned to Australia since.

Three years ago, Matthew was forced to withdraw as director of a US film, Eve, after a social media backlash over his alleged history of assault.

“For the past six years I have lived a quiet and sober life.

“All I can do now is try to be a living amends and hopefully contribute to the positive change occurring in our industry.”

Bert and Patti Newton with their children Matthew and Lauren in 1979.

Bert, Patti, Matthew and Lauren Newton in the early 1980s.

Patti reportedly told a news website Matthew is not feuding with his family.

“There was no rift,” she said on Monday. “He’s had many long conversations with Bert in the hospital and that was all fine.”

She also confirmed Matthew would not attend Bert Newton’s state funeral.

But she blamed border restrictions for the decision.

“He won’t be coming. For no reason,” Patti said. “Maybe (Matthew) he needs to put a statement out to stop everybody thinking that there’s a rift or something.”

Bert Newton with son Matthew in 1988.

Matthew and Lauren Newton with their parents, Bert and Patti.

Meanwhile, celebrities continued to pay tribute to the beloved star of TV, radio, and theatre.

Hollywood actor Hugh Jackman said on Monday: “I was privileged to have worked with Bert on Beauty and Beast for a year. Just by watching him, I learned how to handle the spotlight with grace, dignity, humour and class.

“But, what I will remember more than anything was his incredible humanity. His countless acts of quiet generosity when no one was looking. You were one of a kind Bert. You will be deeply missed,” Jackman said.

TV personality Daryl Somers said Newton’s passing was a “sad day for the entertainment industry”.

Somers said: “I was very fortunate to witness his brilliance, firstly as a viewer, then first-hand when I started my career at GTV9.

“You learn a lot from those who came before you, and so in my case with Bert. He made people laugh over many decades, and in my book, you couldn’t leave a better legacy.”