X Factor winner Sam Bailey has opened up about the emotional support from her husband as she prepares to star alongside Peter Andre in the immersive musical experience Mamma Mia! The Party at London's O2. The 48-year-old singer, who won the talent show in 2013, reflected on her journey from rejection to success and credited her family for making her dreams possible.
From Prison Officer to Stage Star
Before her showbiz breakthrough, Bailey worked as a prison officer and a cruise ship singer. She faced rejection both personally and professionally but believes everything happens for a reason. “I don’t think I’d have coped if I’d done that show when I was younger,” she said. “I’m a little older. I’ve dealt with rejection over the years – for jobs, in love, everything. Young ones with less life experience aren’t necessarily going to deal with those knocks as well as someone older. I was a prison officer too, don’t forget! I’ve seen it all.”
Facing Trolls with Resilience
Bailey also addressed the rise of social media trolling since her X Factor win. She insists criticism does not affect her. “Some people can’t deal with trolls. I’m like, whatever. It is what it is. If you want to say I’ve got gappy teeth or I’m fat, it really doesn’t bother me. I’m still breathing, I’m here, I am earning money and I’m going on my holidays.”
Emotional Tribute to Family
Married to Craig Pearson since 2003, Bailey became emotional when discussing her family’s support. She shares children Tommy, Brooke, and Miley with him. “I’ve got an amazing husband, incredible kids and an amazing support network. I feel like I wouldn’t be here doing this if it wasn’t for them,” she said. “You make a lot of sacrifices to do this job, I’m away from home a lot, but not so far away that they can’t come and visit me. I am very lucky.”
Encouraging Her Children
Bailey is keen for her children to follow their dreams, just as she did. Her eldest daughter has graduated from musical theatre school in London and is entering the industry. “I want to show my children that if you want something in life you’ve got to go out there and get it. You’ve got to expect downfalls, and a lot of noise but one day, it’s going to work out,” she said. However, she stressed she would never push them into unwanted careers. “If they want to go and work in a supermarket, fine. I couldn’t care less as long as they’re happy.”
Musical Theatre Success
Since winning X Factor, Bailey has focused on musical theatre, with roles in Chicago, Fat Friends, and Beauty and the Beast. Despite lacking formal training, she feels she has proven her abilities. “At the beginning, when I first started musical theatre, I felt like, because I didn’t have any training, everybody would be looking at me and going ‘Oh yeah, just someone that came off The X Factor blah blah blah!’ But it never stopped me.”
Mamma Mia! The Party
Bailey’s latest role is in Mamma Mia! The Party, an immersive experience at London’s O2 that pays tribute to the ABBA musical. She plays Debbie the chef, a character she describes as “slightly dappy and a bit of a liability, but she’s got a heart of gold.” Bailey is thrilled to work with Peter Andre, who plays taverna owner Nikos. “I’m lucky to be in a position where I’m coming into work with such amazing people, and Peter is legendary!” she said.
Dream Role
Beyond ABBA, Bailey harbours a secret ambition to play Madame Thénardier in Les Misérables. “Madame T in Les Mis is my dream role. Someone tell Cameron Mackintosh, I’m free from April next year! Honest to God, that’s my favourite musical,” she said.
Sam Bailey stars in Mamma Mia! The Party from 14 May until April 2027. Tickets are available from mammamiatheparty.co.uk.
