In a remarkably candid and wide-ranging interview, British pop sensation Sophie Ellis-Bextor has revealed she is navigating the complexities of perimenopause while simultaneously experiencing an extraordinary career resurgence, thanks to the global phenomenon of the film Saltburn.
The singer, now 46, is also embarking on a formidable legal battle against certain tabloid publications, citing years of intrusive and fabricated stories about her personal life and family.
The Saltburn Effect: A Global Renaissance
Ellis-Bextor’s early 2000s hit, Murder on the Dancefloor, has enjoyed a monumental second life after its feature in the now-iconic nude dance scene at the end of Emerald Fennell’s psychological thriller. The track skyrocketed back into charts worldwide, amassing billions of streams and introducing her music to an entirely new, younger audience.
"It's been totally mind-blowing," she confesses. "The song has had its own journey and now it's come back... it feels like a real gift." The film’s success has catapulted her back into the spotlight, leading to a sold-out tour and a newfound relevance she cherishes.
Taking a Stand: The Legal Battle Against the Press
Beyond the glamour, Ellis-Bextor is fighting a serious battle behind the scenes. She is suing two major newspaper groups over what she describes as "completely invented" stories that have caused significant distress to her and her husband, Richard Jones, and their five sons.
"Enough is enough," she states emphatically. "We've had 15 years of made-up stuff... It's damaging and it's frightening." Her decision to take legal action marks a significant stance against press intrusion, driven by a desire to protect her family and set a precedent.
Navigating Perimenopause with Honesty
With the same honesty, Ellis-Bextor discusses her experience with perimenopause, breaking the silence that often surrounds the subject. She describes a period of confusion and "crashing anxiety" before understanding the root cause of her symptoms.
Now on HRT, she is a passionate advocate for open conversation, aiming to demystify the experience for other women. "It's not a dirty secret," she asserts. "It's something that will happen to half the population, so why aren't we talking about it?"
Sophie Ellis-Bextor emerges from this interview not just as a pop star enjoying a revival, but as a resilient woman consciously steering her career, her health, and her family's wellbeing on her own terms.
