While Harry Styles has achieved remarkable fame as a global megastar, his mother, Anne Twist, insists that he remains just like any other son. In a heartfelt interview, Anne shared insights into the life of her son, who rose to stardom as a member of the iconic boy band One Direction and has since carved out a successful solo career. Now 29 years old, Harry was born in Redditch, England, in 1994, to Anne and her then-husband Des Styles. He is also the younger brother of Gemma Styles, who is 32. Although Anne and Des are no longer together, the family has maintained a close bond that transcends their separation.
In her candid conversation with Mail Online, Anne reflected on Harry’s extraordinary journey in the music industry and the pride she feels as a mother. “He said, ‘Mums don’t always know,’ but I always thought he had something special,” she remarked, hinting at her early recognition of Harry’s potential. Despite his overwhelming celebrity status, Anne approaches her son’s achievements with humility and grace. “He’s just the same as he has always been,” she said. “As a very little boy, he was very much like he is now, just a smaller version.” This statement speaks volumes about the foundation of values and character that Anne instilled in her children.
Anne’s pride is not reserved solely for Harry; she also holds deep admiration for Gemma, who has made her mark by hosting a popular podcast and advocating for mental health awareness to her nine million followers on Instagram. “I’m very proud of both Harry and his older sister Gemma and the adults they’ve become,” Anne shared. “They’re both really hard-working, they’ve got good morals, and they’re really kind people. I know it sounds like a dreadful cliché, but as long as they’re happy, that’s the most important thing.”
The family dynamic remains strong, with Anne noting that they are all “close,” despite the geographical distances created by Harry’s busy touring schedule. “We all see each other when we can,” she said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining those connections even when life gets hectic. When Harry does return home to Holmes Chapel in Cheshire, Anne describes a familiar scene: he walks in and immediately heads for the fridge, a simple gesture that underscores the ordinary aspects of their relationship.
Anne, who previously worked as a pub landlady, recalls Harry’s childhood fondly. She shared that he “always had a big smile” on his face growing up and was often more extroverted than his sister. Her decision to encourage him to audition for *The X Factor* in 2010 was a pivotal moment, though at the time, she had no inkling of the monumental success that awaited him alongside his bandmates Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, and Zayn Malik. “It was all such a new experience, and I just went along with it,” Anne reflected. “I always felt like I was just there until it stopped, and then I would be there to pick up the pieces – that just didn’t happen.”
As for the secret to Harry’s success, particularly in his solo career, Anne attributes it to his authenticity. “He’s authentic to himself,” she explained. “He takes influences from what he feels, what he’s listened to, what he likes. He’s not thinking, ‘Right, I need to make this song for this particular demographic.’ He does what feels right to him – and it seems to be universally appreciated.” This perspective is particularly important in a music industry that often pressures artists to conform to certain trends or expectations.
In a touching anecdote, Anne recalled a moment that highlights the enduring love of family. She remembered her father, Brian Selley, who passed away in 2021 after a battle with Parkinson’s disease, falling asleep during one of Harry’s concerts. “How you manage to do that with that noise, I’ve no idea,” she chuckled, showcasing the warmth and humor that permeate their family story.
Ultimately, Anne Twist’s reflections on her son provide a glimpse into the life of one of the world’s most recognizable figures. Beneath the glamour and fame, Harry Styles remains a son who values family, authenticity, and kindness—qualities that are a testament to the loving upbringing he received from his mother. As Harry continues to captivate audiences worldwide, it’s clear that the strong foundation built by Anne and their close-knit family will always be a source of strength and support for him.