Sun Sep 28 11:40:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Shaun Cassidy, a former teen idol, has opened up about his complicated relationship with his late father, Broadway and television star Jack Cassidy. He describes Jack as a “phony” who crafted a theatrical public persona, including an invented accent, that his children saw through. Shaun also reflects on growing up in Hollywood with famous parents, Shirley Jones and Jack Cassidy, highlighting the difference between their public image and the reality behind the scenes. He discusses his brother David Cassidy’s struggles with fame and his own journey from teen idol to successful television writer and producer. Shaun also cherishes his time with his mother, Shirley Jones, and finds it rewarding to care for her in her later years.
**News Article:**
**Shaun Cassidy Reveals Complicated Relationship with Father Jack: “He Was a Phony”**
LOS ANGELES, CA – Former teen idol Shaun Cassidy has given a candid interview about his late father, Broadway legend Jack Cassidy, revealing a complex and often difficult relationship. In a recent interview with People, Shaun described his father as a “phony” who cultivated a theatrical public persona, complete with a fabricated accent, that left his children questioning his authenticity.
“He basically invented this public persona with an accent that didn’t exist in any country ever,” Cassidy, 67, said. He added that he and his brothers, including the late David Cassidy, saw through their father’s carefully constructed façade.
Cassidy also reflected on growing up in the spotlight with his famous parents, actress Shirley Jones and Jack Cassidy, noting the stark contrast between their public image and the reality at home. He admitted that fame caused resentment in his father, who was reportedly frustrated by his wife and son’s greater success.
Shaun Cassidy also discussed his brother David’s struggles with fame, stating, “David had this chip on his shoulder.” Shaun ultimately felt his older brother never fully embraced and enjoyed the height of his success.
Despite the challenges, Shaun Cassidy said he has learned to hold space for both the pain and the gifts his father left behind. He also shared that he is now cherishing his time with his mother, Shirley Jones, finding it a “full-circle moment” to be able to care for the 91-year-old Partridge Family star.
This interview comes as Shaun Cassidy embarks on his first major tour in 45 years.
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