Cheryl has opened up in an emotional interview revealing that the tragic death of Sarah Harding changed her perspective on life.
The former X Factor judge spoke candidly about the impact Sarah's death had on her life and added the late singer "wasn't ready to leave". Sarah died aged 39 in September 2021 after being diagnosed with terminal breast cancer earlier that year.
Cheryl, 39, found fame alongside Sarah, Kimberley Walsh, Nicola Roberts, and Nadine Coyle on Popstars: The Rivals in 2002. Following Sarah's death, the group reunited at a charity event last year to pay tribute to her legacy.
Speaking to Mail Online, Cheryl said: "A lot of conversations we had before she left really sparked a different perspective for me, and I'll carry that. She wasn't ready to leave and I think, 'Well I'm still here'. I've got the gift of life to still live, and I'll do it with her in mind. It does shift a lot of things in your own heart."
After almost a decade of success, Girls Aloud announced they would be taking a hiatus in 2009 before returning for a 10-year reunion in 2013. The group soon announced they were splitting for good.
Following Sarah's death, Cheryl shared the tragedy has brought the girls closer together.
She continued: "With the loss and our age we just appreciate and love each other so much more. We always have loved each other, obviously. But it's just a different, there's a different depth to it all now."
While many fans have been hoping Girls Aloud will follow in the Spice Girls' footsteps with a reunion tour, it doesn't seem like that will happen anytime soon.
Cheryl explained: "We haven't spoken about Girls Aloud stuff since we learned of Sarah's diagnosis. What Sarah's departure did do was bring us all really a lot closer, just as women as mothers as friends. But we haven't spoken about anything work-related for many years now.
"It wouldn't feel quite like Girls Aloud without her because she was such a big character and a big part of it.
However, although star says she's learned to "never say never" through life, she told the outlet that the group isn't there yet.
Cheryl is currently making her West End debut, taking over from Laura Whitmore with the role of Jenny in 2:22 A Ghost Story.
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