We Had No Idea These Celebrities Had Adopted Children

Mildred Pierce star Joan Crawford deeply wanted children but could not have biological ones. She began adopting as a single woman, later welcoming a son with husband Phillip Terry. Her family eventually included Christina, Christopher, Cathy, and Cynthia, though their childhood accounts would differ greatly.

Christina became a television actress and author, publishing Mommie Dearest, which accused Joan of abuse. Her younger sisters described a happier childhood. Christopher died in 2006, Cynthia in 2007, and Cathy in 2020. Christina has continued speaking about her experiences and advocating for abuse survivors.