Drew Scott, renowned star of ‘Property Brothers: Under Pressure’, has recently opened up about the profound loss his family is enduring following the death of his mother-in-law, Barb. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE magazine, Scott, 47, discussed the impact of this unexpected tragedy and how his family is honouring Barb’s legacy.
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Barb, affectionately known as Habu by her ten grandchildren, was a cherished matriarch, deeply embedded in the lives of those around her. While discussing his loss, Scott explained, “It’s very sad. It was very unexpected. Habu was a big part of all ten grandkids’ lives, and she is greatly missed.” The family is in mourning, yet they are also focused on celebrating the remarkable life Barb led, which is a significant aspect of his wife Linda Phan’s Chinese heritage.
The ‘Property Brothers’ star highlighted that celebrating life is a core value within Chinese culture. “In Chinese culture, there’s a lot of celebration of life, whether it’s at the temple or whether it’s at her home. So we’ve had many moments to reflect on how amazing she is,” Scott shared. He noted that the family has spent the past month together, gathering to remember and honour Barb, including Linda’s father, as they all navigate this challenging period together.
Drew first informed the public of Barb’s passing via a heartfelt tribute on Instagram earlier in February. “My heart is broken,” he wrote at the time, expressing his grief over the loss of “one of the most beautiful, kind and selfless people this planet has ever seen.” He reflected on the special bond between Barb and her grandchildren, fondly stating, “Thank you Habu for bringing so much light to our lives. Your laugh was infectious.”
Scott’s emotional tribute also spoke to his feelings of helplessness in supporting Linda and her family during this mourning period. He acknowledged that although he felt powerless, the memories created with Barb would remain forever etched in their hearts. “You were always there for us and all ten grandkids. The hardest thing for me is knowing we won’t have you here to see Parker and Piper grow into strong and compassionate adults like you,” he added, signifying the enduring legacy she leaves behind.
In addition to his poignant words, Scott shared a collection of photographs capturing cherished moments with Barb, including family gatherings and quiet times, showcasing her close bonds with their children, Parker and Piper. The family’s heartbreak resonates throughout their social media, where friends and fans have expressed their condolences and support. Notably, Jonathan Scott, Drew’s twin brother and co-star, praised Barb as “a loving soul through and through” in the comments section of the post.
Drew and Linda’s relationship blossomed back in 2010 when they first met at Toronto Fashion Week. After a six-year romance, Drew proposed in a lavish setting at Toronto’s Piano Piano restaurant. The couple celebrated their love with a picturesque outdoor wedding in Italy on 4th May 2018. In a joyful turn, they welcomed their first child, Parker, on their wedding anniversary in May 2022, and are expecting their second child.
While Scott and his family grapple with the grief of losing Barb, their determination to honour her memory through celebration and reflection is a testament to the love she fostered. In navigating these challenging times, they remain united in their shared memories and the love they continue to nurture for one another, ensuring that Barb’s spirit remains a guiding force in their lives.