Girls Aloud singer Nicola Roberts has expressed her devastation after being compelled to withdraw from the final performances of the West End musical Hadestown to undergo a medical procedure. The 40-year-old, who is currently expecting her first child, announced the news via the show's official social media channels.
A Heartbreaking Decision for the Expectant Star
Roberts, who has played the role of Persephone in the acclaimed musical for the past five months, shared a personal message with fans. She revealed that on January 9, 2026, she was informed by her doctor of the need for a 'small surgical procedure'. This instruction left her unable to complete her scheduled final week in the production.
'I am sad and disappointed,' Roberts stated. 'Today I have learnt that I have to undergo a small surgical procedure and have been informed by my doctor that as a result I will be unable to complete my final week of Hadestown shows. Everything is ok.'
An Emotional Farewell to the Cast and Audience
The singer conveyed profound sadness at missing the chance to share the stage with her fellow cast members one last time. Her message highlighted the deep connections formed during her run in the show, which retells the ancient Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice.
'I am heartbroken I won’t get to share the stage with my incredible cast who I love dearly and perform for the passionate Hadestown audiences I’ve had the privilege to get to know,' she wrote. 'I have adored playing the role of Persephone, it has been a dream come true and I’m so upset not to be able to fulfil my final week.'
Roberts also issued a sincere apology to supporters who had made plans to see her perform in the closing days. 'I’m so sorry to anyone who had organised trips and booked tickets for my last week. This is completely out of my control and really I have to follow my doctor’s instructions.'
Joyous Personal News Precedes Medical Setback
This professional setback follows a period of great personal happiness for the star. Just last month, Roberts announced that she and her fiancé, former footballer Mitch Hahn, 37, are expecting their first child together.
She shared the news on Instagram on Christmas Day, posting a picture of her baby bump and writing: 'Mitch and I have had the most magical Christmas Day sharing the most precious news with our families. We’ve been keeping a secret. We are five months pregnant! We can’t wait to meet our little one in the spring.'
The couple, who became engaged last year during a trip to Spain, are eagerly anticipating the arrival of their newborn in the coming spring season.
During her time in Hadestown at London's West End, Roberts performed alongside Dylan Wood as Orpheus, Cedric Neal as Hermes, Chris Jarman as Hades, and Desmonda Cathabel as Eurydice. The production's management has acknowledged her departure and is expected to arrange cover for the pivotal role of Persephone for the remaining performances.
