Key Highlights
- Kerry Katona discusses her experiences in Atomic Kitten and her career journey.
- The documentary “Girlbands Forever” provides a behind-the-scenes look at British girl groups from the 90s and 00s.
- Katona reflects on fame, tabloid attention, and personal struggles during her career.
- She discusses touring with Katie Price and their friendship despite initial skepticism.
The Rise and Fall of Atomic Kitten: Kerry Katona Reflects on Her Career
Kerry Katona, the former pop star from Atomic Kitten, shares her insights on fame, success, and personal challenges in a recent interview with The Observer.
Early Beginnings and Breakthrough Success
At just 17 years old, Kerry Katona joined the pop group Atomic Kitten alongside Natasha Hamilton and Liz McClarnon. Formed in 1998, the trio quickly rose to fame with their hit singles such as “Right Now” and “I Want Your Love.” By 2001, Katona had left the band due to pregnancy but continued her music career through various projects.
Navigating Fame and Personal Struggles
“Fame is a really fucked up thing,” Katona says in the documentary. She describes how the intense media scrutiny and public attention took a toll on her mental health, leading to drug addiction and suicide attempts during her early years of success.
Despite these challenges, Katona’s story resonates with many fans and fellow musicians who recall the turbulent times within the industry. “In girl bands, there’s always one they tear down,” she adds, reflecting on how female artists were often targeted by tabloids for sensational headlines.
Career Comebacks and New Ventures
Following a period of personal turmoil, Katona has experienced career comebacks. She starred in reality TV shows like “I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” and co-hosted “The Big Reunion,” where she reunited with her former bandmates. Recently, she’s been touring with friend Katie Price to share stories about fame and life.
Katona also discusses her recent bankruptcy and how making content on OnlyFans has provided a new source of income. She hopes that her experiences will inspire others facing similar challenges in the entertainment industry.
Looking Back at Atomic Kitten
The documentary “Girlbands Forever” offers viewers a glimpse into the early days of British girl groups, showcasing the raw talent and hard work behind their success. Katona shares personal anecdotes from those formative years, emphasizing the camaraderie she developed with her bandmates.
“Atomic Kitten gave me the tools to deal with what I went through later on,” she says. “But it never really prepared me. Nothing can.” Her reflections serve as both a celebration of her past and a reminder of the ongoing impact of fame and its pitfalls.
Final Thoughts
Kerry Katona’s journey from pop sensation to reality TV star highlights the complex relationship between artistry, public image, and personal resilience. As she continues to share her story in “Girlbands Forever,” her experiences offer valuable insights into a time when girl bands were at the forefront of British popular culture.
