Kerry Katona has spoken out in a powerful defence of her friend Katie Price, recalling the origins of their friendship and hitting back at those who warned her to stay away.
A Friendship Forged in Adversity
The pair are currently touring the UK with their show An Evening With Katie Price and Kerry Katona, where they share intimate details about their lives and careers with audiences nationwide. Their connection spans more than two decades, having first met back in 2004.
Speaking to the Daily Mail about their initial meeting, Kerry revealed that she was explicitly advised to avoid Katie. "People said, 'Don't touch Kate. Don't go near her,'" the 45-year-old recalled. "What is wrong with them? I've been where Kate has been. I've done the drugs, divorces, bankruptcy. Our lives are very mirrored. Why would I not support her? No one supported me."
Defending Today's Katie Price
Kerry was quick to dismiss the notion that Katie is fragile, instead praising her friend's strength and resilience. "Kate is not fragile. She's the strongest woman I know," Kerry stated emphatically. "She's also more sober, more together than anyone gives her credit for. And she will get her empire back. I am in awe of her."
The duo's bond was strengthened last year when they appeared together in pantomime as the wicked stepsisters, adding another chapter to their long-standing relationship.
The MBE Apology
Kerry's supportive comments come shortly after Katie found herself in the spotlight for different reasons. Katie had publicly questioned why fellow media personality Myleene Klass received an MBE, making controversial remarks to Closer UK.
However, Katie later issued a sincere apology on her podcast, The Katie Price Show. "Now I never apologise unless I'm in the wrong," she explained. "I did not know on my life — now I know why she did get an MBE. She did something about miscarriages, and that's very close to my heart as I've also had miscarriages and at late stages in pregnancy, so I commend her for that and I apologise to her."
Myleene Klass, also 47, was awarded the MBE earlier this year for services to women's health, specifically for raising awareness about miscarriage care and supporting women affected by the experience.
Following the honour, Myleene shared her joy on Instagram, writing: "Today I received my MBE for services to women's health, miscarriage awareness and to charity. I am utterly overjoyed and humbled. Having my family there and our rainbow baby boy was extra magical in what has at times been a very dark journey for us all."
