Ashley Roberts, a former member of the iconic pop group Pussycat Dolls, recently opened up about the severe toll that her time in the band took on her health. In an insightful interview with The Times UK, Ashley revealed that the pressures of being a pop star during the 2000s led to significant physical and mental distress.
The Pussycat Dolls burst onto the music scene in 2003, captivating audiences with their catchy songs and stunning performances. Ashley Roberts recalls the exhilarating moments of their rise to fame, saying, “I remember being on stage in New York with the crowd singing back the lyrics and thinking, ‘Oh, this is really happening.’” However, the fast-paced nature of their success came without any consideration for the artists’ mental health.
Ashley described the whirlwind lifestyle of a 2000s pop star, emphasizing the extreme demands placed on her. “There were no discussions around, ‘How is your mental health?’ It was a different era,” she noted. The intense schedule, which often involved traveling across multiple countries in a single day, eventually took a heavy toll on her body. “Eventually, my body just got to the point of shutdown,” Ashley admitted, highlighting the physical and emotional exhaustion she endured.
Ashley Roberts' health deteriorated to such an extent that she had to be hospitalized in London. Initially, doctors suspected she might be suffering from a brain aneurysm, but it was later revealed that the symptoms were a result of the overwhelming stress from her time with the Pussycat Dolls. “I remember saying in the hospital, ‘I need to get on a flight to Germany. I’ve got a show to do,’” she recounted, illustrating the relentless mentality she felt compelled to maintain despite her serious health issues.
Even after leaving the Pussycat Dolls in 2010, Ashley continued to face health challenges, including severe eczema, shingles, and a stomach ulcer. She described these conditions as manifestations of years of pressure and a culture of constant hustle, saying it was a result of a ‘go, go, go’ lifestyle. “There was also this feeling that we could be replaced in some way,” she added, reflecting on the intense competition within the music industry.
Ashley Roberts' candid revelations serve as a reminder of the hidden struggles many artists face behind the glitz and glamour of the music industry. Her story emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being, particularly for those in high-pressure environments like the entertainment world. For a deeper understanding of her experiences, you can read the full interview here.
