Katy Lee Carroll, the 37-year-old daughter of Australian rock legend Jimmy Barnes, uncovered her biological connection in an unexpected way. For most of her life, she believed a road worker named Ian was her father. However, on her 32nd birthday in September 2019, her mother, Suzanne Betty Boon, told her the truth—Jimmy Barnes was her biological father.
Carroll, a sales associate in Coffs Harbour, New South Wales, hesitated before reaching out. She knew Barnes had been married to Jane Mahoney for six years when she was conceived. Wanting to be respectful, she took time to process the revelation before contacting him.
The First Meeting: A Family Reunion Begins
On February 7, 2020, she met Barnes and his wife Jane in Kingscliff, a coastal town near her home. Barnes had traveled there with Jane before his Cold Chisel performance at A Day on the Green in Mount Cotton, southeast of Brisbane. Carroll’s husband, AJ Gilbert, and their two daughters joined her for the emotional introduction.
Before meeting the family, Carroll wrote a deeply personal letter to ease any tension. She was especially mindful of Jane’s feelings. Despite her concerns, the Barnes family welcomed her with warmth and understanding.
“She was embraced with love, and their bond grew naturally,” a friend of Carroll shared. “She shares many of Jimmy’s traits and openly talks about her childhood struggles. Despite the challenges, she is proud of what she has accomplished.”
A Growing Connection with the Barnes Family
Since that first meeting, Carroll has built a strong relationship with her newfound family. Her Instagram features photos with Barnes, Jane, and her half-siblings, reflecting their growing bond. In November 2023, she shared a picture with Barnes and her half-brother Jackie, captioning it “Blessed” with a heart emoji.
Barnes, who has four children with Jane, also fathered Today Extra host David Campbell, as well as two daughters, Amanda Bennett and Megan Torzyn, in his younger years.
Jimmy Barnes’ Return to the Stage
Despite facing health challenges, Barnes recently announced his return to live performances. His DEFIANT tour is set to begin on June 7, 2024.
Carroll’s story highlights the power of family bonds, resilience, and reconnection. Even after decades apart, she has found a place within the Barnes family, proving that it’s never too late to discover and embrace one’s true identity.
