Kerry Katona Reveals the Reality of Being Targeted in Girl Bands
Kerry Katona, a prominent figure in the British pop music scene, recently opened up about her experiences in the girl band Atomic Kitten. The band gained fame in the early 2000s and produced multiple Top 10 hits. However, Katona has faced numerous challenges that have shaped her public image and personal life.
The Rise and Challenges of Kerry Katona
Katona, who is now 45 years old, was a founding member of Atomic Kitten. She left the group in 2001 after becoming pregnant with her first child. During her time in the band, she experienced significant attention, but it was not all positive. Katona struggled with the pressures of fame, facing divorces, financial difficulties, and personal battles.
Early Life and Fame
Born in Warrington, Katona had a turbulent upbringing, living with various foster families and leaving school at 16. She pursued a career in glamour modeling, fueling her desire for fame which she had since childhood. At just 17, she joined Atomic Kitten, where she described herself as lacking parental guidance and feeling out of place.
Reality of Fame
In her recent comments about fame, Katona reflected on how it can be isolating. Despite the band’s reported £1.5 million record deal, she reveals that the financial rewards were minimal for her personally, with only £36,000 ending up in her bank account. The pressures of intense scrutiny led her to seek comfort in substances, leaving her feeling overwhelmed.
Sexism in the Music Industry
The music industry during the 90s and 2000s presented unique challenges for women. Katona noted that girl bands often faced sexism. She described how the media’s focus on female performers could be detrimental, sometimes leading to unfair portrayals and mental health struggles.
Current Endeavors and Reflection
Kerry Katona is currently on tour with fellow star Katie Price, where they share their personal experiences. This tour aims to highlight the realities of fame and the impact of tabloid culture on individuals’ lives. Katona believes in lifting each other up and addresses topics like domestic violence during their events.
Upcoming Projects
Katona will soon feature in the BBC documentary “Girlbands Forever,” which explores British girl groups from the 90s and 00s. The series will air on BBC Two starting November 1. Katona expressed a mix of emotions watching footage from her past with Atomic Kitten, acknowledging both the hard work involved and the bittersweet memories associated with her early career.
Conclusion
As she navigates her career post-Atomic Kitten and shares her journey with fans, Kerry Katona remains a significant figure in discussing the challenges faced by women in the entertainment industry. Through her candid reflections, she advocates for understanding the complexities of fame, resilience, and the importance of support among friends.
