In a dramatic courtroom revelation, former Lostprophets bassist Stuart Richardson has disclosed the chilling prison warning he received from disgraced frontman Ian Watkins before the singer's sentencing for horrific child sex offences.
The shocking testimony emerged during a hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, where Richardson recounted how Watkins had cautioned him about the dangers he would face behind bars. "He told me that prison would be bad for him," Richardson stated, painting a disturbing picture of the lead singer's awareness of his impending fate.
A Band's Tragic Downfall
The Welsh rock band, once at the pinnacle of British music success, saw their career implode in 2013 when Watkins pleaded guilty to multiple counts of sexual assault against children and other depraved offences. The case sent shockwaves through the music industry and devastated fans worldwide.
Richardson, who testified via video link from Australia, described the moment he learned about Watkins' crimes as "the worst day of my life." The bassist revealed he had immediately severed all ties with the frontman, telling the court: "I never wanted to see him again."
Unimaginable Betrayal
The court heard how Richardson and other band members felt completely betrayed by Watkins' actions. "We were in a band with a predatory sex offender," he stated, emphasising the profound shock and horror that followed the revelations about his former friend and colleague.
Watkins is currently serving a 29-year prison sentence, with an additional 6 years on licence, for what the presiding judge described as "a tale of utter degradation" involving infants and children. The severity of his crimes ensured he would be categorised as one of Britain's most notorious prisoners.
Life After Lostprophets
Since the band's dissolution, Richardson has maintained a low profile, largely stepping away from the music industry. His courtroom appearance marks one of the few times he has publicly addressed the scandal that destroyed the band he helped build from its South Wales origins.
The case continues to serve as one of the most disturbing chapters in British music history, highlighting how talent and success can mask deeply disturbing criminal behaviour until it's too late for victims.
