Kerry Katona was forced to keep her cleavage covered during Atomic Kitten's early days because of strict rules over stage outfits, former bandmate Natasha Hamilton has revealed. Speaking on the True Reflections podcast, Hamilton explained that Katona's larger bust led stylists to take extra precautions when choosing outfits for stage and television performances.
"In the early days it was tough with Kerry, she was quite big chested. It was like, the boobs need to be covered at all costs. For kids TV and jumping around, she used to have to wear jackets and the poor thing was totally restricted and covered," Hamilton said.
Unequal Treatment Within the Band
Hamilton admitted she had far more freedom with her own wardrobe because she didn't have the same concerns. "I could wear the tiniest bit of material and all backless because I didn't have any boobs at the time, so there was no stress that they were gonna come out on TV. I remember that was a little bit unfair to Kez," she added.
The singer also reflected on her own insecurities during Atomic Kitten's early years, revealing she wasn't always comfortable with some of the group's stage costumes. Hamilton explained that the figure-hugging jumpsuits worn while promoting "I Want Your Love" left her feeling self-conscious. "I wasn't curvy back then, it was pre kids, I was very athletic looking, very up and down. And stood next to the girls they looked quite womanly and sexy. I was like I don't feel confident to put this figure hugging all-in-one on every time we do a TV performance. I remember getting quite upset about that," she said.
Atomic Kitten's Legacy and Recent Activities
Atomic Kitten officially split in 2004 following their Greatest Hits tour, with members focusing on solo projects and family life. The trio have reunited several times, including for The Big Reunion in 2013 and a number of live performances. The girl group became one of the biggest pop acts of the early 2000s, scoring three UK number one singles and enjoying international success with hits including "Whole Again," "The Tide Is High," and "Eternal Flame."
Away from the band, Natasha recently returned to music with the release of her debut extended play, Extraction, on July 3. Meanwhile, Kerry has continued performing around the UK as part of the ABBA tribute spectacular Super Troupers, where she joins the cast in performing some of the legendary Swedish group's biggest hits.
