Twenty years after their initial breakup, Kym Marsh and Suzanne Shaw, members of the iconic British pop group Hear'Say, are making a comeback. They, along with Danny Foster and Noel Sullivan, are joining forces with Liberty X for an extensive 13-date arena tour scheduled for next year. The stars humorously embrace their current roles as grandmothers, expressing delight at the prospect of their children and grandchildren accompanying them on the road. They also playfully declared their intention to steer clear of their signature noughties fashion, preferring comfort over their previous daring styles. Notably, Myleene Klass will not be joining the reunion, citing an already packed schedule.
Hear'Say and Liberty X Embark on Grand Reunion Tour with a Nod to the Past and an Eye on the Future
In a much-anticipated announcement last month, British pop sensation Hear'Say, originally formed through the reality television show Popstars, revealed their plans for a grand reunion tour after more than two decades. Members Kym Marsh, Suzanne Shaw, Danny Foster, and Noel Sullivan are set to embark on a 13-date arena tour across various cities including Dublin, London, Manchester, and Leeds, in collaboration with fellow early 2000s group Liberty X. However, Myleene Klass, another original member of Hear'Say, will not be part of the comeback due to prior commitments.
During an interview with Heat magazine, Kym Marsh and Suzanne Shaw lightheartedly discussed their readiness for the tour, joking about their new identities as grandmothers. Marsh quipped about performing in cardigans, while Shaw emphasized that partying would be minimal, aiming for earlier bedtimes. They both confirmed that their flamboyant noughties wardrobes would remain firmly in the past, with Marsh humorously adding that she couldn't even fit a single leg into her old "UFOs."
The nine returning artists, including all original members of Liberty X (Michelle Heaton, Jessica Taylor, Tony Lundon, Kevin Simm, and Kelli Young), made a joint appearance on This Morning to discuss their upcoming performances. Kym Marsh expressed her excitement and acknowledged Myleene Klass's absence, stating, "It's a shame Myleene can't come with us, but it just isn't the time for her. She's busy. But we had to take the opportunity because there's nine of us... It's a shame but we're so excited."
Myleene Klass, on Loose Women, explained her decision, confirming that while her bandmates were "sweet" to include her in discussions, her current commitments prevented her participation. She reiterated her affection for the band and acknowledged the formative impact of her time with Hear'Say, stating that she looks back fondly on their journey. She did not, however, rule out future collaborations, though she jested about remembering all the lyrics.
Fans on social media reacted to Klass's absence, with some speculating that she viewed the tour as "beneath her" and reminding her to "never forget your roots." Other comments included, "Her comments on Loose Women didn't come across well that she's too busy. She wouldn't have been there if Hear'Say and I'm A Celebrity didn't happen. Comes across like it's beneath her tbh!" and "Treacherous move by Myleene Klass IMHO; Think someone forgetting where they started. Never forget your roots."
The idea for the reunion originated with Jessica Taylor and Michelle Heaton of Liberty X, who reached out to Hear'Say members through direct messages. Kelli Young explained, "We slipped into the DMs of Suzanne first and then Noel, and then it rolled away — we kind of got it going ourselves, to be honest." Kym Marsh also noted that while their dance routines might not be as energetic as in their younger days, there would certainly be a "nod" to their classic performances.
Hear'Say, formed in 2000-2001, quickly achieved massive success with their debut single "Pure and Simple," which set a record for first-week sales in the UK. Kym Marsh departed the group in 2002, and subsequent singles did not replicate their initial triumph. Liberty X, formed in 2001, also found global fame with their hit "Just A Little." Both groups briefly reunited in 2013 for the ITV show "The Big Reunion." This upcoming 25th-anniversary tour marks a significant moment for both bands and their devoted fan bases.
Thoughts on the Reunion of Pop Icons: A Nostalgic Yet Realistic Comeback
The reunion of Hear'Say and Liberty X, two prominent pop groups from the early 2000s, offers a fascinating glimpse into the enduring appeal of nostalgia and the evolving careers of entertainers. It's truly heartwarming to see Kym Marsh and Suzanne Shaw embrace their roles as grandmothers while still committing to the stage, suggesting that passion for performance transcends age and life changes. Their candid humor about ditching their old fashion and needing "deep heat" adds a relatable, human touch to their comeback, contrasting sharply with the often-unrealistic glamor portrayed in the entertainment industry.
The absence of Myleene Klass, and the resulting public discourse, highlights the complex dynamics within celebrity groups and the perceptions of career trajectories. While her decision to prioritize other commitments is understandable, the fan reactions underscore the deep emotional connection audiences have with these groups and their origins. It raises questions about loyalty to one's past and the choices artists make as their careers diversify. Ultimately, this reunion isn't just about reliving past hits; it's a celebration of enduring friendships, evolving identities, and the joy of sharing music across generations, demonstrating that some legacies, even two decades on, can still captivate and inspire.
