Former 90s Girlband Member Reveals Strict Dietary Controls During Her Pop Star Days
Kéllé Bryan, a former member of the iconic 90s girl band Eternal, has shared insights about her experiences during their peak fame. In a recent BBC documentary, she revealed the pressures regarding body image and strict dietary control her band faced.
Strict Dietary Controls in the 90s
During their rise to stardom, band members were often scrutinized for their appearance. Kéllé noted that people would express concern over her weight, as well as the weight of her bandmates.
- Stylists frequently commented on their sizes.
- The era favored a size zero figure.
- The band was sent to a countryside retreat where their meals were strictly controlled.
Kéllé reflected on these experiences, stating, “When I look back, it was crazy, but that’s how it was.”
The Formation of Eternal
Kéllé signed her first record deal at just 15, alongside her friend Louise Redknapp. They considered this moment a significant achievement, as Kéllé recalled earning £300 a week. Shortly after, they were joined by sisters Easther and Vernie Bennett to form Eternal.
After three years, Louise opted to leave the group to pursue a solo career, expressing feelings of being lost and lacking self-esteem during her time with the band. Kéllé recognized the impact of Louise’s departure on Eternal, acknowledging the challenges the group faced without her.
A Glimpse into the Documentary
The BBC documentary titled “Forever Girlbands,” produced by Louis Theroux, explores the legacy of 90s girl bands, including Eternal. The series aims to celebrate the music and talent of that era while shedding light on the difficulties faced by these young women in the spotlight.
Louis Theroux described the 90s as a special time for pop music and British culture, emphasizing both the joy and pain experienced by these artists. He expressed excitement about revisiting the music and interviews from that era.
Looking Back at Nostalgia
Jonathan Rothery, the head of BBC popular music TV, highlighted the significance of the upcoming documentary. It promises to take viewers on a nostalgic journey through the history of UK girl groups and examine the lessons learned by women thrust into fame at a young age.
This documentary is expected to provide a deeper understanding of the personal experiences of girl band members, making it a must-watch for fans of 90s music.
