Paul Anka Opens Up About His ‘Close’ Bond with Son Ethan and Raising Him as a Single Dad
February 13, 2026: Legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka is known worldwide for timeless hits like “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” and “My Way.” But beyond decades of chart-topping success, Anka says one of his greatest achievements has nothing to do with music — it’s his relationship with his 20-year-old son, Ethan.
In a recent candid conversation, Anka reflected on raising Ethan as a single father and described their bond as “close,” heartfelt, and deeply meaningful.
A Different Chapter of Fatherhood
Anka, who has six children, welcomed Ethan later in life. By the time Ethan was born, the Grammy-nominated artist had already built an iconic career spanning generations. But becoming a father again brought a renewed sense of purpose.
After navigating changes in his personal life, Anka found himself stepping fully into the role of a single dad. He has said that raising Ethan required balance — managing international tours and studio sessions while ensuring his son always felt present, supported, and heard.
“It’s about being there,” Anka has shared in past interviews. “Not just financially, but emotionally.”
Image Credit: Instagram @paulankaofficial
Building a Close Father-Son Bond
Now 20 years old, Ethan has grown up largely out of the public spotlight. Unlike many celebrity children, he has maintained a relatively private lifestyle — something Anka intentionally encouraged.
According to Anka, their closeness stems from open communication and mutual respect. Rather than adopting a strictly authoritarian parenting style, the singer says he aimed to be a guide and mentor.
The result? A relationship rooted in trust.
“He’s my guy,” Anka has expressed warmly when speaking about Ethan. “We talk about everything.”
Raising a Son While Touring the World
Balancing global fame with parenthood isn’t easy. Anka’s touring schedule has taken him across continents for decades, but he says Ethan was always his priority.
When Ethan was younger, Anka structured his schedule to minimize long separations. As Ethan grew older, the dynamic shifted — with father and son developing shared interests and conversations about life, music, and personal goals.
Despite the pressures of celebrity, Anka has emphasized that family life remained grounded and consistent.
Fatherhood Later in Life
Having children across different stages of life has given Anka perspective. He has spoken about how parenting Ethan felt different — perhaps more reflective and patient than in his younger years.
With maturity came a deeper appreciation for the everyday moments: conversations at the dinner table, shared laughter, and watching his son grow into adulthood.
“Time becomes more precious,” Anka has suggested, acknowledging that fatherhood in his later years has sharpened his awareness of what truly matters.
Lessons He’s Passed On
Anka has long credited discipline and respect as core family values. Those same principles guided his parenting with Ethan.
He encouraged independence, resilience, and humility — qualities that he believes are essential whether someone chooses the entertainment industry or another path entirely.
At the same time, he allowed Ethan space to develop his own identity rather than feeling overshadowed by his father’s legendary status.
Pride in the Young Man Ethan Has Become
Now at 20, Ethan stands at the beginning of his adult journey. While Anka has not pushed him toward music or any particular career path, he has expressed pride in the young man his son is becoming.
Their relationship, Anka says, has evolved from parent-child to something closer to friendship — though always anchored in guidance and respect.
Family Above Fame
For Paul Anka, who has performed for presidents and royalty, fatherhood remains the role he speaks about most tenderly.
Despite decades in the spotlight, it’s clear that his bond with Ethan is something he treasures deeply.
In the end, Anka’s story isn’t just about legendary songs — it’s about legacy, love, and raising a son with intention.
FAQs
Q1: How old is Paul Anka’s son Ethan?
A1: Ethan is 20 years old as of 2026.
Q2: Did Paul Anka raise Ethan as a single father?
A2: Yes, Paul Anka has spoken about raising Ethan as a single dad and balancing parenting with his music career.
Q3: Is Ethan Anka in the entertainment industry?
A3: Ethan has largely stayed out of the public spotlight, and there is no confirmed indication that he has pursued a music career like his father.
Q4: How many children does Paul Anka have?
A4: Paul Anka has six children in total.
Q5: What has Paul Anka said about his relationship with Ethan?
A5: He has described their bond as “close” and built on trust, communication, and mutual respect.
Q6: How did Paul Anka balance touring and fatherhood?
A6: Anka has said he prioritized emotional presence and structured his schedule to remain involved in Ethan’s upbringing.
What are the biggest stories trending online today? Read the latest here
