Liberty X singer Michelle Heaton has criticised modern reality TV contestants as ‘fame-hungry’ individuals seeking a ‘quick buck’, contrasting them with her own experience before the advent of social media. The 46-year-old, who rose to fame in 2000 through the show Popstars, said her time in the noughties girl band felt ‘innocent’ by comparison.
In an interview, Heaton explained that while some talented people emerge from today’s shows, the majority are motivated by fame and money. She noted the absence of social media during her heyday meant the band could enjoy their success without constant scrutiny. ‘We had so much fun… it just isn’t like that anymore,’ she said.
The mother of two also reflected on the impact of paparazzi, saying they captured moments she wished they hadn’t, affecting her family and public perception. ‘I was no longer in a band to be a singer… that really hurt,’ she added.
Heaton, who still performs with former Liberty X bandmates, is preparing for a new stage show titled The Ultimate Girl Band Tour in 2026. She described it as a ‘feel-good’ celebration of girlband hits, with dance routines and costumes, and said she was glad to finally do something for herself after regaining her health.
Asked about recent documentaries highlighting the darker side of 2000s pop groups, Heaton said Liberty X were ‘one of the lucky ones’ with no hidden battles, though she acknowledged the unresolved trauma faced by others. ‘It was hard to watch,’ she admitted.
