What happened to Hear'Say? From cheating scandals and a Gavin & Stacey cameo to going living with monks - the wildly different lives of the pop stars as they announce comeback

Twenty-five years after their formation on ITV’s pioneering talent show Popstars, the British pop group Hear'Say has stirred excitement with hints of a reunion. The band, originally assembled by judges Nigel Lythgoe, Nicki Chapman, and Paul Adam, shot to fame following the show’s documentary-style competition that aimed to create a new chart-topping act.

Hear'Say consisted of Danny Foster, Myleene Klass, Kym Marsh, Suzanne Shaw, and Noel Sullivan. While their debut album soared in popularity, their momentum faltered with their sophomore release, leading to the group’s dissolution after just 18 months. Interestingly, the runners-up of the same contest, who formed Liberty X, ultimately enjoyed more sustained commercial success.

Recently, the band reignited public interest through a social media campaign featuring a mock group chat, with Noel Sullivan prompting the bandmates about reuniting. This gesture has fueled speculation about a potential comeback, positioning Hear'Say to possibly rival Liberty X’s enduring legacy.

Among the members, Myleene Klass stands out for transitioning into a prominent media career. After Hear'Say, she released a classical solo album and became a familiar face on UK television and radio, hosting shows like Popstar to Operastar and The One Show. Klass also gained renewed visibility through reality TV, notably finishing as runner-up on I’m a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! in 2006 and winning the 2023 all-stars edition. Despite professional success, Klass's private life has seen challenges, including a tumultuous marriage, public infidelity allegations involving her ex-husband, and the personal tragedy of multiple miscarriages. She has since become an advocate for miscarriage awareness and women’s health, earning an MBE for her charitable efforts.

Danny Foster, who had a background as a youth worker before joining Hear'Say, experienced a significant personal transformation following a spiritual journey in India that introduced him to meditation and yoga. He later founded Love Includes You, a platform promoting mindfulness and self-love. Foster attempted a return to music with a 2013 audition on The Voice but did not advance. His career path also included touring with a soul group he established.

Suzanne Shaw’s post-Hear'Say life has been marked by resilience amid adversity. Initially grappling with the abrupt end of the band and its aftermath, including struggles with alcohol and mental health, Shaw revived her performing career through theatre roles and television appearances. She won Dancing On Ice in 2008 and expanded her family, becoming a grandmother in 2024. Shaw's personal life has involved both long-term relationships and recent breakups, reflecting a journey of continued evolution.

Noel Sullivan transitioned from part-time waiter to a successful theatre actor after Hear'Say disbanded. He has played key roles in productions such as Grease and the West End’s School of Rock, notably gaining attention for his commitment to authentic character portrayal. Sullivan also made a cameo in the acclaimed BBC series Gavin & Stacey. In 2017, he publicly disclosed his sexuality, revealing the challenges of concealing his identity during his early pop career.

Kym Marsh’s tenure with Hear'Say was fraught with internal conflict and public scrutiny. She left the group amid feelings of betrayal linked to media leaks and disagreements over commitments. Marsh went on to carve out a substantial acting career, most notably as Michelle Connor on Coronation Street for over a decade. Her personal life has been marked by multiple marriages, publicized relationships, and the tragic loss of a child. Marsh continues to attract media attention with her recent engagement, underscoring her enduring public profile.

The original Popstars series itself, groundbreaking in its time, showcased moments now viewed as problematic, including on-air critiques of Marsh’s weight that have left lasting impressions. These moments highlight the evolving standards and sensitivities around reality television and celebrity treatment.

While some band members initially expressed reservations about a full reunion, the recent social media activity has sparked renewed hope among fans. Details regarding the scope and timing of Hear'Say’s comeback remain limited, but the group’s legacy as early reality TV pop pioneers continues to resonate. Their story reflects the volatile nature of instant fame and the diverse trajectories that follow, from media reinvention and advocacy to personal growth and artistic reinvigoration.