90s pop group S Club 7 has announced that bandmate Hannah Sperarritt has quit their reunion tour. The band, who are due to tour in October to celebrare their 25th anniversary, shared a video on social media telling fans Hannah will no longer be taking part following Paul Cattermole's death last month.
Bradley McIntosh, Jo O'Meara, Jon Lee, Rachel Stevens and Tina Barrett posted an update to fans on Instagram, the MEN reports. They spoke together as a group for the first time since their devastating loss.
“In all honesty, we’ve been in a bit of shock,” the post said. Jo and Tina wiped away tears as they paid tribute to Paul, who they said would 'light up a room.'
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And Jon said: “You’ve probably noticed that there’s only five of us here today, and although Hannah will always be part of S Club 7, she won’t be joining us on this tour. We wish her all the best for the future.”
The band explained that they were renaming the S Club 7 Reunited Tour the Good Times Tour in tribute to Paul "because that was his song." Tina added: "It feels right." Paul, 46, was found dead at his home in Dorset on April 6.
There has been an outpouring of shock and grief since his death. Paul, who shot to fame as part of the seven-piece band back in 1998, was preparing for a return to the stage with the Bring It All Back, Reach and S Club Party hitmakers.
Confirming the tragic news, his family and bandmates said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved son and brother Paul Cattermole. Paul was found yesterday, 6th April 2023 at his home in Dorset and was pronounced dead later that afternoon."
Following the announcement there was an outpouring of support on social media. Ohitsjo said: "Sending love xx shame Hannah won’t be joining now. Looking forward to seeing you in October."
thepensmith said: "Sending you all so much love. I don't think any of us can even begin to imagine how hard this last month or so has been for you all, losing your bro and bandmate.
"We're all right behind you, such a fitting way to remember Paul with the tour going forward. Please be kind to yourselves as well guys, and remember that some days it'll be harder than others but you've got our support."
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