Atomic Kitten Star Firmly Closes Door on Kerry Katona Return
In a candid revelation, Atomic Kitten's Natasha Hamilton has made it clear that a full band reunion involving Kerry Katona is off the table. The singer, now 43, expressed respect for her former colleague but emphasized that professional collaboration is not in the cards.
A History of Chart Success and Shifting Lineups
Natasha Hamilton joined Atomic Kitten in 1999, replacing Heidi Range who departed after eight months to eventually join the Sugababes. She teamed up with original members Kerry Katona, then 45, and Liz McClarnon, 44, forming the trio that released hits like Right Now and See Ya, both securing top 10 positions in the UK charts.
The group's momentum was disrupted when Kerry Katona exited due to pregnancy just days before the launch of their iconic single Whole Again. Jenny Frost stepped in to replace Kerry, re-recording parts of their debut album and featuring in a reshoot of the Whole Again music video, which helped sustain the band's commercial success.
Past Reunions and Current Stances
While the original trio briefly reunited in 2013 for The Big Reunion TV show, leading to a tour, Natasha Hamilton now dismisses the idea of working with Kerry Katona again. She told The Mirror:
"I wish Kerry all the best. That girl has been out there. She's a hustler. She looks after those kids so well. Fair play to the girl. There's no big thing, but when it comes to work, that isn't going to happen."
This isn't the first time Natasha has downplayed reunion prospects. Last year, she mentioned to the Daily Mail that "never say never" applies to nostalgia, but highlighted her recent time with Jenny Frost rather than Kerry.
Kerry Katona's Perspective on the Early Days
Kerry Katona has also spoken about their dynamic, revealing on Paul C. Brunson's podcast We Need To Talk that she initially clashed with Natasha. She recalled:
"When we met, I thought, 'can't stand her.' You know, she was a very strong character, like, telling me what routines to do. And I said, 'Don't like it. Don't think she's a fit.'"
Despite early friction, they grew close, but the friendship has cooled over the years. Kerry explained her departure, noting she left before Whole Again hit number one to focus on motherhood, stating, "I actually realised I didn't want to be rich and famous; I just wanted to be a mum."
Future Possibilities Without Kerry
Natasha Hamilton remains open to reuniting with Liz McClarnon and Jenny Frost, acknowledging Liz's recent motherhood as a timing factor. She added:
"Obviously, Liz has just had a baby so right now is not the right time, but I always say never say never. We're so close, the three of us, and I'm hopeful that maybe in the future at some point we would be able to come together and do that."
Atomic Kitten released three albums before going on hiatus in 2004 and officially splitting in 2008. While both Natasha and Kerry express mutual respect, it seems they are not ready to mend professional ties, leaving fans to wonder if the group will ever be "whole again" in its original form.
