Kirk Franklin has always been known for his powerful voice and heartwarming music, but the Grammy-winning gospel artist recently shared a personal side to his Christmas celebrations. At Little Big Town’s Christmas at the Opry event in Nashville on October 4, Franklin, 54, opened up about a unique tradition he had while raising his children: he’d buy himself the same gifts he gave them, including a go-kart.
“That’s crazy, isn’t it?” Franklin remarked, laughing at his unconventional way of celebrating. “It’s like I bought them a go-kart, and I bought me a go-kart.” The revelation was an amusing, yet telling example of Franklin’s love for his children, showing how he always made sure to treat himself as well while ensuring they were spoiled too.
While his gift-giving may seem extravagant, Franklin’s childhood was far from lavish. Growing up, he didn’t have the means to experience Christmas in the way many others did. This made him appreciate the deeper, spiritual significance of the season. “For me, it was really all about leaning into the spiritual ideals of the reason for the holidays,” he explained. “The purpose of what the holidays are for.”
Franklin’s story reflects how the true meaning of Christmas transcends material gifts. His focus on spirituality and family remains the heart of his holiday traditions, even as he creates lasting memories for his children.
In a previous interview with PEOPLE in 2023, Franklin opened up about his difficult childhood and his emotional journey of reconciliation with his estranged father. The gospel singer, who found his father at the age of 53, shared his feelings of mixed emotions. “He’s a beautiful soul. It’s just something that you’re still having to get used to,” Franklin said. “And I may be on that journey for the rest of my life.”
This relationship, one of healing and learning, is still a work in progress. Yet, Franklin’s openness and faith have helped him navigate the complexities of reconnecting with the man who was absent from his life for so long. Despite the challenges, Franklin has chosen to embrace the journey, with God’s guidance.
Franklin’s family life is also a source of strength and love, especially his relationship with his wife, Tammy. The couple, married since 1996, have a bond built on love, respect, and a deep connection that Franklin cherishes. “Tammy is an incredible, blessed woman, but she would’ve been an incredibly blessed woman if she didn’t even find my knucklehead,” he joked, calling himself a “knucklehead” while praising his wife for her unwavering support.
In a world that often idolizes relationships, Franklin reflected on the unrealistic expectations many people place on love and marriage. He shared his thoughts on the pressure to achieve “perfect” relationships, stressing that they shouldn’t be the ultimate measure of one’s worth. “I also find it very sad how we idolize relationships to the point that people make those things the sum total of their goal of existence,” he said. “There’s so much beautiful essence about you even before you get there.”
As for his relationship with his son Kerrion, whom he had a public falling-out with in 2021, Franklin remains hopeful and continues to pray for his son’s healing. “As far as my son, I just continue to pray that he will fulfill all that God has him to be and get the healing and all the things that he deserves,” Franklin shared. “I love him to death.”
Franklin’s story is one of redemption, love, and faith. Despite the struggles he’s faced, he continues to lean into the grace of God, finding peace in his relationships, his family, and the holidays.
READ MORE: