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Ricky Nelson | Tracy Nelson | Source: Getty Images
Ricky Nelson | Tracy Nelson | Source: Getty Images

Ricky Nelson's Daughter Stuns at 59 & Shows Off Her Kids Years after She Dreamed Dad Asked Her to See a Doctor

Daniella Segell
Apr 12, 2023
08:00 A.M.
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American musician and actor Ricky Nelson had five children, including his now 59-year-old daughter, Stacy, who is a mother of two. Recently, she proudly showed off her adult children on social media. Tracy has also shared the stories of how her father's memory saved her life and her family's bitter custody battle with Mark Harmon. These experiences took a toll on her health during the 80s and 90s.

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Born in October 1963, Tracy is the eldest of five siblings from the marriage of her famous parents, Ricky Nelson and Kristin Harmon. Despite being born into the spotlight, Tracy's upbringing was challenging, and she faced significant struggles. Nevertheless, she was drawn to performing, like her family members.

Rick Nelson poses for a portrait in circa 1957 | Source: Getty Images

Rick Nelson poses for a portrait in circa 1957 | Source: Getty Images

Rick Nelson (1940-1985) sits outdoors on a lawn chair with his wife Kristin Harmon and their daughter Tracy | Source: Getty Images

Rick Nelson (1940-1985) sits outdoors on a lawn chair with his wife Kristin Harmon and their daughter Tracy | Source: Getty Images

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Although Tracy's parents were married for many years, their relationship was far from happy. Both Ricky and Kristin accused each other of infidelity and substance abuse. As a teenager, Tracy frequently fought with her mother and felt safer staying with her father.

After years of difficulties, Ricky and Kristin finally divorced in 1982, allowing the family to move on from their issues. Tracy went on to secure a breakout role in "Square Pegs" and starred in popular TV shows such as "St. Elsewhere," and "Family Ties."

Singer Rick Nelson (1940-1985) smiles with his wife Kristin Harmon. He holds an acoustic guitar | Source: Getty Images

Singer Rick Nelson (1940-1985) smiles with his wife Kristin Harmon. He holds an acoustic guitar | Source: Getty Images

Tracy Nelson (as Jennifer DiNuccio) in the CBS television show, SQUARE PEGS. 1982 | Source: Getty Images

Tracy Nelson (as Jennifer DiNuccio) in the CBS television show, SQUARE PEGS. 1982 | Source: Getty Images

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Tracy Nelson promotional photo for the ABC tv series 'Glitter' 1984 | Source: Getty Images

Tracy Nelson promotional photo for the ABC tv series 'Glitter' 1984 | Source: Getty Images

In addition to her successful Hollywood career, Tracy also started her own family and is proud of her children, whom she showcases on social media. Despite being in her late 50s, she looks fantastic.

What do Tracy Nelson and Her Children Look Like Now?

Tracy has recently shifted her focus to spending more time with her children, causing her Hollywood career to slow down. She regularly shares pictures of her children on social media, particularly when they spend time together. In November 2022, she shared a photo of herself, her son, and her daughter in Santa Fe.

In March 2023, Tracy shared a photo of herself and some friends at her daughter's wedding. Fans complimented her dress and congratulated her son and his new partner on their marriage. On March 23, Tracy posted a picture of her daughter with an orange octopus mannequin on her head, accompanied by a joking caption that she was working hard.

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Tracy also shared a photo of her daughter and son-in-law sharing a loving glance on their wedding day, commenting on how calm they appeared despite the onset of an unexpected storm that wreaked havoc on their wedding plans. Tracy added that they were an inspiration in managing their lives and marriage. Fans gushed over the pair, calling them a stunning couple who looked genuinely happy together.

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Tracy once posted a photo of her children smirking at her while riding the subway in NYC. She mentioned the picture was a reminiscence of their previous visit to the city.

In September 2020, Tracy shared a video of her son playing the guitar with a simple caption. Fans praised the young man's guitar skills, commending his ability to play beautifully.

How Did Tracy's Dream of Her Father Save Her Life?

After Ricky's passing, he appeared to his daughter in a dream and helped save her life. In December 1985, Ricky died in a plane crash. Two years later, in December 1987, Tracy received the devastating news that she had a malignant tumor and was also diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. At the same time, Tracy was caught in the middle of a custody battle between her mother and uncle, Mark Harmon, over her younger brother.

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Tracy Nelson poses for a portrait in 1986 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Tracy Nelson poses for a portrait in 1986 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Tracy believed the stress caused by these pivotal life events contributed to her illness, along with her father-in-law's incurable throat cancer diagnosis.

Tracy underwent numerous treatments, including a seven-hour surgery and chemotherapy, which caused her to lose weight. She continued to work throughout her treatments. Despite her fears of being unable to conceive after the grueling treatments, she gave birth to a child in 1992. Within six months, her cancer went into remission.

Ricky Nelson (1940 - 1985), circa 1960 | Source: Getty Images

Ricky Nelson (1940 - 1985), circa 1960 | Source: Getty Images

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However, Tracy's miraculous recovery would not have been possible without her father's intervention. Tracy shared:

"My father called me on the phone and said, 'I know you miss me, but it's not time for you to die. You have to go see a doctor.'"

Tracy Nelson attends the 29th Annual Grammy Awards on February 24, 1987 at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Tracy Nelson attends the 29th Annual Grammy Awards on February 24, 1987 at Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Tracy's dream about her father played a significant role in her recovery, despite her struggle with rumors surrounding her father's death. Many people believed Ricky caused the fire responsible for the plane crash by free-basing cocaine, but the investigation revealed that a faulty system was to blame. Despite this, the substance abuse rumors persisted, causing turmoil for the family.

Eventually, the family feud over Tracy's brother was resolved, and she is now close to her uncle. Tracy even expressed a desire for her uncle to teach her daughter how to swim, as he had taught Tracy when she was younger. However, her relationship with her mother has not improved.

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Mark Harmon on "NCIS: Los Angeles" August 11, 2009 | Source: Getty Images

Mark Harmon on "NCIS: Los Angeles" August 11, 2009 | Source: Getty Images

Tracy Nelson attends the screening of 'Yours, Mine, and Ours' at the 2019 TCM 10th Annual Classic Film Festival on April 14, 2019 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Tracy Nelson attends the screening of 'Yours, Mine, and Ours' at the 2019 TCM 10th Annual Classic Film Festival on April 14, 2019 in Hollywood, California | Source: Getty Images

Tracy's strength and resilience shone through as she battled and overcame three different types of cancer: Hodgkin's lymphoma, thyroid cancer in 2005, and breast cancer in 2010. She has fully recovered and is an active member of cancer research associations.

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