Rugby league legend Wally Lewis recently conveyed birthday wishes to his second wife, Lynda Adams, through an Instagram post. This public display of affection comes amidst reports suggesting a permanent rift between Lewis and his children, Mitch, Lincoln, and Jamie-Lee, a situation exacerbated by his new marriage.
Lewis, 66, shared a touching message for Adams, who turned 59, on his Instagram account over the weekend. The post read: "Happy Birthday to my beautiful wife Lynda…just one year away from joining me in the 60's club. I look forward to celebrating many more with you and perhaps it might be time for us to invest in some walking sticks soon!"
This birthday tribute has reportedly been met with disapproval from Lewis's adult children. The children were notably absent from Lewis's wedding to Adams last year, reportedly due to their allegiance to their mother, Jacqueline, Lewis's first wife. Lewis and Jacqueline divorced in early 2021 after 36 years of marriage.
A family insider told Woman's Day that reconciliation between Lewis and his children is unlikely. "As the gap widens and the silence deepens, because Mitch, Lincoln, and Jamie-Lee are so close, they actually support one another when it comes to their feelings about their dad," the source stated. The insider further commented that the children believe their father's actions have irrevocably harmed their mother and that his return to their lives would constitute a betrayal. "It may sound cruel, but they actually don't need their father in their lives. And they most certainly don't need his new wife."
Jamie-Lee Lewis recently posted a tribute to her mother on Mother's Day, describing her as the "definition of strength, resilience and unconditional love." This sentiment underscores the children's continued loyalty to their mother.
Lewis, known as 'The Emperor of Lang Park,' confirmed his separation from Jacqueline in February 2021, stating at the time, "This is a deeply personal matter that we do not want to discuss publicly. I want to acknowledge the pain and upset my family has gone through since Jacqui and I separated last year. I hope over time we can rebuild our ties and move on with life."
Despite the reported family discord, Lewis has publicly praised Adams for her support, particularly as he navigates health challenges including epilepsy and chronic traumatic encephalopathy. "My partner Lynda has been fantastic through it, and has been very patient," he shared on The Howie Games podcast earlier this year.
Online reactions to Lewis's Instagram birthday post for Adams were largely positive, with commenters expressing well wishes and observing the couple's apparent happiness.