Natasha Hamilton says 'it's been tough' as she makes Atomic Kitten announcement

Natasha Hamilton has announced that she is leaving girl group Atomic Kitten after 26 years to focus on her solo career. The singer first joined the group in 1999 alongside Liz McClarnon and Kerry Katona, who was later replaced by Jenny Frost.

Natasha said her time with the group, known for hits including The Tide Is High and Whole Again, had not “always been smooth” but she “wouldn’t change a thing”.

In a lengthy statement posted to Instagram on Friday (October 11), she wrote: "At the beginning of the year I didn’t know how to juggle being a Kitten, whilst also trying to break out as a solo artist, but I gave it a go and I have to say, it’s been tough.

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“Mainly because I go from being this strong, empowered woman, building a brand new career, to transporting back to a version of myself I really have outgrown. I have been living in two worlds and it really has been difficult navigating both. 26 incredible years, writing so many wonderful chapters, but now the time has come for me to close the book on this one."

Reflecting on her time with the group, the 42-year-old said: "The ride hasn’t always been smooth but I wouldn’t change a single thing. I’ve laughed and cried many a time with the girls, experienced so many surreal moments and been blessed with a career spanning 26 years – it’s been incredible and something I will always cherish.”

Natahsa, a mother-of-five, said Sunday (October 13) would mark her last Atomic Kitten performance for the foreseeable future before she turns to concentrating on her new ventures.

She added: "AK was always there to pick me up and get me back on my feet, both mentally and financially – and that’s something I will always be eternally grateful for. But for me, right now, this is what I need to do to be able to focus on all the things that mean a lot to me.”

She thanked the fans who have supported them over the decades for being “incredible” and praised her remaining bandmate. "Liz, I wish you all the luck and love in the world with your work ventures and all the amazing things that are still to come in life for you – it’s been one hell of a ride!!" she added.

Liz quickly responded to the post, writing: "Love you". Blue's Duncan James also showed his support, saying: "I know this has not been an easy decision but I love u and always support you for ur decisions. I’m sure I will see u on the road soon. Big love." Liberty X's Jessica Pietersen added: "Massive love to you babe! Hopefully see you out there soon for a proper catch up!"

The girl group released their debut album, Right Now, in 2000 and their follow-up, Feels So Good, in 2002, which both went to number one. Their third and final record, Ladies Night, which included a cover of Kool & The Gang’s hit track of the same name, peaked at number five.

Meanwhile, their tracks Whole Again, Eternal Flame and The Tide Is High (Get The Feeling) all proved popular and topped the singles charts. Over the years the group has reunited for various projects with various line-ups, with Hamilton and McClarnon being the two remaining active members.

The group rose to prominence again in recent years after recording a remake of Whole Again in support of England at the 2020 Euros, titled Southgate You’re the One (Football’s Coming Home Again).