Natalia Kukulska has opened up about the emotional scars left by her father's second marriage to Monika Borys, sharing how it shaped her perception of family and relationships. This candid reflection follows her recent celebration of her own 25-year marriage to Michał Dąbrówka.
Kukulska's father, Jarosław Kukulski, is best known as the husband of late pop singer Anna Jantar, who tragically died in 1980 when Natalia was just four years old. The loss was devastating for the young girl, and her father, struggling with grief, sought solace and companionship.
Soon after Jantar's death, Kukulski entered a relationship with Borys, whom he married in the late 1980s. The couple welcomed their son, Piotr, also known as "Pikej". Despite the joyful addition to the family, the marriage soon hit turbulent waters, leading to their divorce in 2003.
Reflecting on her father's second marriage, Kukulska did not hold back her feelings, describing it as "antymodelem rodziny" or 'an anti-model of family.' She expressed her belief during an interview with Viva!, pointing out, "Tata po śmierci mamy szukał miłości. Nawet sam o sobie mówił, że jest poszukiwaczem. Szukał też kobiety, która stworzyłaby dla mnie dom. Nie udało się to." This quote translates to, "Dad, after mom's death, was searching for love. He even called himself a seeker. He was also searching for a woman who would create a home for me. It didn’t happen."
Kukulska elaborated on the impact of her father's search for love, linking it to the notion of family she holds today. She remembered witnessing her father's suffering during the rocky marriage and concluded, "I had it in my mind, my family and home could not be like this. For me, family is the starting base, closeness, and sense of security." These reflections reveal how deeply her personal experiences influence her view on relationships.
Meanwhile, Monika Borys, who began her career as the fashionable pop star of the 80s and 90s, is often remembered for hits like "Co ty królu złoty". After the divorce, she gradually faded from the public eye, preferring to maintain her privacy away from the limelight, much unlike her ex-husband's continuing public presence.
The complex dynamics between Natalia and her half-brother Piotr also add layers to this familial narrative. The relationship experienced strains following their father's death, particularly over inheritance and artistic legacies. Although Piotr's music career as a rapper did not achieve notable success, he has moved abroad and currently focuses on business.
Kukulska has noted improvements between herself and Piotr, acknowledging how time has aided their relationship. Despite remaining distant, she mentioned, "I wish him happiness and finding purpose" as she continues to navigate her life as both a successful artist and a devoted family member.
Today, as Kukulska reflects on her experiences, she reaffirms the values of love and stability she strives for with her own family. Having built her own life alongside Dąbrówka, she recognizes the importance of nurturing environments and the lessons learned from her past. This growth perfectly encapsulates her transition from being shaped by her father’s experiences to creating her own legacy, both personally and professionally.
Through the lens of her father’s troubled marriage, Kukulska advocates for healthy family dynamics and speaks to the importance of establishing strong foundations. She hopes to inspire others, demonstrating how overcoming personal challenges and healing can result in positive outcomes.