In this week’s cover story, Alana ‘Honey Boo Boo’ Thompson shares her experiences growing up on reality TV and discusses her relationship with her mother, Mama June, as well as her pursuit of college dreams. The former pageant princess reflects on her childhood and the origins of her famous nickname, recalling the moment she became a star on TLC’s Toddlers & Tiaras at the age of 5. Despite the ups and downs captured on TV over the years, Alana has matured into a thoughtful young adult, now attending Regis University in Colorado at the age of 19.
The family’s journey, from the success of Here Comes Honey Boo Boo to the darker moments of Mama June’s struggles with addiction, is explored in the upcoming Lifetime biopic I Was Honey Boo Boo, set to premiere on May 17. Alana bravely shares her perspective on the challenges they faced both on and off camera, emphasizing the importance of telling her truth while respecting her family’s complexities. Through difficult times, including Mama June’s arrest in 2019, Alana has shown resilience and a determination to shape her own future beyond the spotlight.
As she continues her studies and navigates adulthood alongside her partner, Alana remains grounded in her past while looking towards a brighter tomorrow.
With the help of her sister Lauryn, who obtained full custody of her in 2022, she concentrated on her studies and successfully completed high school in 2023. Alana ‘Honey Boo Boo’ Thompson always knew she wanted more from life than just being on TV. She was determined to graduate, attend college, and pursue her dream of becoming a nurse.
Despite facing financial challenges, Alana, now a rising junior, worked hard to overcome obstacles. Growing up in the spotlight, she found that her earnings were mismanaged by her mother, Mama June, who struggled with addiction. Despite the difficult circumstances, Alana and her mom have started to rebuild their relationship, and now appear together on the show Mama June: Family Crisis.
Alana reflects on the forgiveness she extended to her mother, acknowledging the challenges they faced but emphasizing their bond as mother and daughter. Looking towards the future, Alana is proud of her resilience and determination to achieve her goals, including becoming the first in her family to earn a college degree.
For more insights into the tumultuous life of Alana ‘Honey Boo Boo’ Thompson, check out the latest issue of PEOPLE magazine. Stay updated on the latest celebrity news and human interest stories by signing up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter.
