She’s been daddy’s little girl for 17 years, so when Today show host Karl Stefanovic proudly posed with his daughter Willow at her recent high school formal, it’s no surprise he shed a few tears.
WATCH BELOW: Chrissie Swan and Karl Stefanovic present 2022 TV WEEK Logie for Most Popular Lifestyle Program
Beaming from ear to ear, it was the precious moments behind the scenes that guaranteed Willow’s special evening was one to remember.
“It’s the first time Karl and Willow’s mum Cassandra [Thorburn] have been a united front. Six years since they separated, it’s the first glimmer of hope that the once bad blood between them has eased,” a well-placed insider reveals.
“While they didn’t attend any of the same events together that night, they came up with a plan B, which meant both got to enjoy their daughter’s once-in-a-lifetime event.”
Willow decided to get ready at her dad’s rental digs on Sydney’s North Shore, with the help of step mum Jasmine, and her very excited little sister, 2-year-old Harper!
“Cass then went to the pre-formal with Willow, but not before racing home from work and cooking dinner for Willow’s brothers, Jackson and River!” says the insider.
Willow’s choice of a stunning silk-satin crystal- encrusted gown by one of her favourite Australian designers, Michael Lo Sordo, did not disappoint.
WATCH: Montage of Harper Stefanovic for her birthday
“She’s been modelling since last year while juggling school, and she hopes to study fashion full-time when she graduates,” confirms the insider.
“Whatever happens moving forward, it’s hoped that Karl and Cass have turned the corner. In the end, they both deserve to feel very proud.”
Willow also shares a very special bond with Harper, her baby half-sister.
“Loves her big Sissy ssoooo much,” Jasmine captured a photo of the pair smiling at each other, posted to Instagram.
She’s regularly featured on Jasmine and Karl’s social media pages, cuddling up to the little toddler.
Harper, who was born in 2020, is now two – fifteen years her sister’s junior.
But we’re certain the pair of sisters will stay very close throughout their lives!