Liz Johnston and her family are grappling with an unimaginable loss that has shaken them to their very core. The reality star, known for sharing her life with fans on TLC’s 7 Little Johnstons, recently revealed that her grandmother—affectionately known by viewers as Nana—has passed away, leaving the family in deep sorrow. For the Johnstons, family has always been at the heart of their story. Over the years, fans have grown attached to the close-knit family, watching Liz, Trent, Anna, Emma, Alex, and Jonah navigate life together with love, humor, and resilience. The passing of a family member, therefore, doesn’t just affect the family—it affects the many fans who have come to feel like part of their extended family.
The Johnston family had been eagerly preparing for the premiere of their newest season, excited to share new chapters of their lives with loyal viewers. Unfortunately, life had other plans. Trent Johnston’s mother, known for her vibrant presence and warmth, had been a central figure in the family’s story. Her energy, her love for her children and grandchildren, and her role in shaping the Johnston family dynamic were celebrated by fans throughout the series. Now, her absence has left a noticeable void, and the family is grappling with the grief of losing another loved one, following the heartbreaking death of Trent’s father in the previous season.
Fans of 7 Little Johnstons have always cherished seeing the family’s older generations interact with the younger siblings. Liz, Anna, Emma, Alex, and Jonah have shared countless tender moments with their grandparents, moments that resonated with viewers across the globe. Whether it was a simple conversation in the kitchen, a game of cards on a quiet afternoon, or a lively holiday celebration, these interactions added warmth and depth to the show, providing glimpses into the family’s core values: love, loyalty, and togetherness. The loss of a grandparent, therefore, is profoundly felt—not only within the family but across the community of viewers who have followed their journey for years.
The 16th season of 7 Little Johnstons promised a look into new aspects of the family’s life. A trailer released ahead of the premiere highlighted the presence of Trent’s mom, giving fans hope and joy to see her lively personality once more. In one particular scene, Anna shared aspects of her personal life with her grandmother, discussing her relationship with Darius and her decision to focus on personal growth and career opportunities. These moments reminded fans why the Johnstons’ family interactions feel so genuine: they are unfiltered, warm, and filled with love, even in the midst of life’s trials. Despite the backdrop of grief from previous losses, seeing Nana engaged with her grandchildren brought comfort and continuity to the show’s narrative.
However, the excitement was tempered by a wave of heartbreak when Liz Johnston shared a subtle but emotionally charged update on social media. Posting a photo of herself with her grandmother, Liz added a small halo over her Nana’s head with the caption, “Will love you always, Nana.” While the post was brief, the halo symbol immediately raised questions among fans. For many, it hinted at a final farewell, suggesting that Nana had passed away. The timing and subtlety of the post added layers of speculation and concern within the fandom. On Reddit, fans quickly began discussing the image, trying to piece together what it meant for the Johnston family. One user noted, “Liz put a halo on her head, and the past tense in the caption seems to indicate she died.” Others expressed concern for Trent, imagining the pain of losing both parents within a span of two years.
The social media post, while short, spoke volumes about the family’s current reality. It highlighted not just the grief of losing a beloved matriarch but also the delicate way public figures must navigate personal tragedies in the digital age. Fans debated whether Liz should have shared such a subtle post, with some feeling it might confuse or mislead viewers. Others defended her, pointing out that sharing grief publicly is often a way for families to process loss and honor their loved ones while maintaining privacy. One fan commented, “I’m glad she’s reunited with her poppy. May they rest in peace and love,” reflecting the compassion and empathy that the Johnston fan community has consistently shown.
This loss comes after a particularly turbulent period for the Johnstons. The death of Trent’s father in the previous season had already left the family grappling with intense emotions. The subsequent absence of his mother now compounds the grief, underscoring the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing loved ones while they are present. Throughout their time on television, the Johnstons have shared their triumphs, their challenges, and their resilience, providing viewers not just with entertainment, but with profound lessons in empathy, family bonds, and perseverance. The recent loss reinforces these themes in a deeply personal way.
Despite the heartbreak, fans continue to express support for the family. Comments flood social media with messages of love, condolences, and solidarity. The community that has grown around 7 Little Johnstons is more than just a fan base—it is an extended network of people who genuinely care about the family and the individuals who bring their story to life. The family’s transparency about grief and love resonates strongly with audiences, reminding everyone that behind the cameras, these are real people experiencing real emotions.
The upcoming season promises to balance the joyous and tender moments of family life with the reality of loss and resilience. Viewers can expect to see how the Johnstons navigate the aftermath of Nana’s passing, how they support one another through grief, and how the family continues to find moments of joy and connection even in the shadow of sorrow. It is a season that honors both the past and the present, paying tribute to family members who have shaped their lives while highlighting the unwavering bonds that hold the family together.
In conclusion, the Johnston family’s recent loss is a sobering reminder of the unpredictability of life. For Liz, Trent, Anna, Emma, Alex, and Jonah, it is yet another chapter in a story filled with both joy and heartbreak. As fans continue to follow their journey, the emphasis remains on love, connection, and the importance of cherishing every moment with those who matter most. Through her social media post and the upcoming season, Liz has reminded viewers that even in grief, love endures, and the legacy of those we have lost lives on in the hearts of those who remain.
The Johnstons have faced tragedy before, yet their resilience, humor, and devotion to one another continue to inspire millions. As the new season unfolds, fans will witness the power of family, the enduring presence of Nana in spirit, and the ability of love to transcend even the most difficult circumstances. In a world that often feels uncertain, the Johnstons remain a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even in loss, there can be grace, strength, and a profound sense of togetherness.