It felt strangely familiar, like we were repeating a pattern we’d experienced countless times before, and a sense of unease settled in because of it.
When Shona McGarty, known for her role on EastEnders, revealed she was leaving acting to pursue a career in pop music, many questioned whether she had fully considered what that would involve.
She excitedly shared a photo of herself in the recording studio with Steve Anderson, a well-known music producer and the person she worked with on her new single, ‘Unapologetically Me,’ calling it her ‘happy place.’
This role marks a new direction for the actress, though many before her have taken a similar path. It follows her announcement two years ago that she would be leaving the popular soap opera EastEnders, where she was widely known for playing the character Whitney Dean.
‘I have decided to spread my wings and will be leaving EastEnders,’ McGarty announced at the time.
I’ve really enjoyed my time on the show. I’ve been given fantastic storylines to work with, and I’ve formed wonderful friendships – like a family – that I know will last a lifetime.
She’s not the first Walford resident to chase musical fame, but sadly, most of those who tried before her didn’t achieve lasting success – it was as difficult as getting a free drink at the Queen Vic.
But EastEnders isn’t the only soap with a rather dubious history of failed pop endeavors.
Musicians from around the world, from cities like Manchester and Melbourne, have repeatedly attempted to move beyond typical pop music, but often with limited success.
1. NICK BERRY
Nick Berry, known for his charming looks and striking blue eyes, quickly became a popular star and naturally moved on from his role on the TV show set in Albert Square to pursue other opportunities.
However, almost no one predicted he would launch a pop music career, a surprising turn of events sparked by his role as Simon ‘Wicksy’ Wicks, a barman with musical talent, on the soap opera EastEnders.
Originally, actor Michael Barry (known as Wicks) performed the memorable ballad “Every Loser Wins” solo on the piano in the Queen Victoria pub on the TV show EastEnders. The song quickly became a genuine hit, earning success for Barry and its writers: Simon May, Stewart James, and Bradley James.
The song quickly became a number one hit in the UK in 1986, and its writers were later honored with an Ivor Novello Award.
Without a strong lead singer, the band’s initial popularity quickly faded, and their next single, strangely named “It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time,” didn’t become a hit.
Looking back, Berry’s first album really didn’t make the splash we’d hoped for. It only hit number 99 on the UK charts, and honestly, that was a pretty clear sign that his time as a pop star was coming to an end. It’s always tough when an artist doesn’t connect with the public the way they’d envisioned, but sometimes these things just happen.
Despite leaving EastEnders in 1990, Berry continued to find success on television, most famously with a long-term role in the ITV police series Heartbeat.
The show, set in the sixties, even helped jumpstart Chuck Berry’s music career. In 1992, he released the show’s theme song – originally a Buddy Holly hit – as a single, and it climbed to number two on the charts.
2. ANITA DOBSON
If Berry’s foray into mainstream pop was short-lived, then spare a thought for Anita Dobson.
Before her colleague had a hit song, the actress famous for playing the pub owner Angie Watts had a successful song of her own.
In a surprising success, Dobson reached number four on the charts with “Anyone Can Fall In Love,” a song that reimagines the theme tune from the TV show EastEnders with new lyrics.
The song, initially released in August 1986, quickly became popular and climbed the UK charts, leading to a performance by the 37-year-old Dobson on the television show Top of the Pops.
Although it was her only top song, its creation had a lucky feel to it, especially since Brian May, the famous guitarist from Queen, produced it.
May and Dobson would later marry in 2000.
3. LETITIA DEAN AND PAUL J. MEDFORD
1986 saw several successful projects spin off from the popular soap opera EastEnders, including the hit single “Something Outa Nothing” performed by Letitia Dean and Paul J. Medford.
This energetic song shares the same creative roots as Berry’s album, ‘Every Loser Wins,’ and was written by the same team. It first appeared on the popular BBC soap opera, performed by the fictional band, The Banned.
Following the success of Berry’s first single, this one was released in October and reached number 12 on the UK charts.
As expected, this turned out to be the only recording the pair ever made. Shortly after, Medford finished his role as Kelvin Carpenter on the TV show EastEnders after playing him for two years.
A show icon as feisty Sharon Watts, Dean remains an Albert Square resident to this day.
4. MICHELLE GAYLE
Unlike some artists, Michelle Gayle found more success on the music charts after becoming a pop singer in 1993.
Gayle first became known as an actress, playing Hattie Tavernier on the TV show EastEnders. She then successfully transitioned to a music career, launching it with her first single, “Looking Up.”
The song reached number 11 on the charts and helped launch Gayle’s pop career. Her next single, “Sweetness,” was even more popular, reaching number two the following year.
Gayle put out two albums in three years, but after leaving RCA Records and facing problems with her new label, EMI, her popularity significantly dropped as the 1990s ended.
Her greatest hits album, titled after her first single, didn’t make the charts when it came out in 2000.
In 2003, she returned to the spotlight as a contestant on the reality show Reborn In The USA. The show aimed to help ten pop stars who had lost popularity revive their careers in America.
Gayle competed on the show alongside well-known musicians like Tony Hadley from Spandau Ballet and Peter Cox of Go West, ultimately reaching the quarter finals before being eliminated by the public vote.
In 2008, she competed to represent the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest, performing her song “Woo (U Make Me)” – which she helped write – in the preliminary rounds.
However, the singer didn’t win, ultimately finishing second to Andy Abraham, who had previously competed on The X Factor.
Though her music career seems to have reached a turning point, Gayle – known for leaving the soap opera EastEnders in 1997 – has since been on popular TV shows like Strictly Come Dancing and Loose Women.
5. JOHN ALTMAN
‘Alright ma!’
It’s hard to imagine any fan of the show EastEnders not immediately knowing ‘Nasty’ Nick Cotton’s famous line.
It’s really a shame, though, that even though the show itself became so beloved, John Altman – the composer behind so much of its iconic music – never quite got the recognition he deserved. I always felt he was a huge part of what made it special, and it’s disappointing his career didn’t reach the same heights.
Known as a memorable character on Albert Square, Altman—the troubled son of the devout Dot Cotton—tried his hand at music in 2000, releasing his own song, “Looking For The Love of My Life,” in hopes of achieving chart success.
As a lifestyle expert, I’ve been following this actor’s career for a while, and it’s exciting to see him branching out! He’s always been a triple threat – stage, screen, and now music! To promote his new release, he created a really cool, DIY music video. Think stunning winter scenery and a very personal touch – he performs directly to the camera, which I think is fantastic. It’s low-budget, but high impact – a really authentic feel.
Unfortunately, the video didn’t become popular and has only received 7,500 views on YouTube so far.
6. MARTINE MCCUTCHEON
In 1999, a New Year’s Eve episode of EastEnders drew 22 million viewers to witness the heartbreaking death of regular character Tiffany Mitchell.
The beloved character tragically died after being hit by Frank Butcher’s car, ending her time on the show with a dramatic exit. The actress who played her then launched a career as a pop singer.
Everything seemed promising, even though McCutcheon was upset with BBC producers for refusing to let her return to EastEnders if her music career didn’t work out.
The actress had already achieved success with her first single, “Perfect Moment,” which reached number one eight months prior. Her second single, “I’ve Got You,” also performed well, peaking at number six that August.
After losing the security of her role on EastEnders, McCutcheon took a risk and pursued a music career, though it wasn’t consistently successful.
Her first album, You, Me & Us, was a big hit, reaching number two on the UK Album Chart when it came out in September 1999. However, her next two albums weren’t as successful, peaking at numbers 25 and 55.
McCutcheon achieved significant success on the singles chart, with her first five releases all reaching the top ten. However, she faded from public view in 2001.
I was so thrilled when she came back to making music in 2017 with ‘Lost And Found’! It was amazing to hear her working with Jack McManus again, especially since he used to be her husband. It really felt like a full-circle moment and the album was fantastic.
7. ADAM RICKETT
It felt natural that Adam Rickitt would pursue a pop music career after becoming famous for playing Nick Tilsley on Coronation Street.
Rickett, who already had a strong following of mostly young women, hoped to trade performing in the fictional town of Weatherfield for bigger venues like Wembley Arena after getting a record deal with Polydor Records.
There was good reason to be hopeful, as their first single, “I Breath Again,” reached number five on the UK charts. The song was supported by a provocative music video featuring Rickett showing off his physique.
However, this success wouldn’t last. The actor’s only album, ‘Good Times,’ didn’t perform well, only reaching number 41 on the charts.
Like the album itself, the following singles, “Everything My Heart Desires” and “The Best Thing,” didn’t resonate with listeners. This led Rickett back to focusing on the type of music he was originally known for.
He returned to music in 2014 by joining the supergroup 5th Story for the reality TV show The Big Reunion, which featured pop groups reuniting.
8. TRACY SHAW
Maxine Peacock was tragically killed by Richard Hillman, the serial killer from Coronation Street.
This isn’t the first time Tracy Shaw’s career has faced a setback. Her previous attempt at a singing career ended abruptly, and this situation feels similarly decisive.
As a lifestyle observer, I always find it fascinating when careers take unexpected turns. Take actress Rae Dawn Chong, best known for playing Maxine on a popular show for eight years. It was a real shock when her character was suddenly written off – apparently, it all came down to a disagreement over pay! But before her acting success, she actually tried her hand at being a pop star, releasing a single called ‘Happenin’ All Over Again.’ It’s a little-known fact about a talented woman who’s worn many hats.
As a music lover, I always get excited when artists revisit classics! This particular track is a cover of Lonnie Gordon’s wonderful song, and it first came out in 1997 on a smaller, independent label called Love This Records. They put it out as a bit of a test release, to see how it would be received.
While Gordon’s song was a major hit, Shaw’s version didn’t perform as well commercially, only reaching number 46 on the UK Singles Chart.
Their follow-up single, “Ridin’ High,” didn’t do well and quickly faded into obscurity, effectively ending any chance of the band achieving mainstream pop success. It only reached number 78 on the charts before being forgotten.
It would be Shaw’s final release before she turned to acting.
9. HOLLY VALANCE
Oh my gosh, I still remember when she was on Neighbours! It feels like yesterday, even though it was only three years. But honestly, even then, you just knew she was destined for bigger things. She didn’t stay on that soap for long – she was clearly meant to be a pop star, and she went for it! It was so brave, leaving a steady job like that to chase her dream. I’ve been following her ever since!
Valance became well-known for playing Felicity ‘Flick’ Scully, and after signing with London Records, she had some success with her music in Australia.
Similar to other Australian singers before her, she had more success in the UK. Her first album, Footprints, reached number nine on the UK Album Chart, which was better than its performance in Australia, where it peaked at number fifteen.
Valance’s first single, “Kiss Kiss,” was already a major success in the UK and Australia, topping the charts in both countries. It also gained her attention in the United States, where it climbed to number 27 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Unfortunately, her success didn’t continue. Her second and last album, State of Mind, only reached number 60 in the UK charts, selling a mere 8,000 copies during its first week.
10 STEFAN DENNIS
Before becoming known for his dancing on Strictly Come Dancing, Stefan Dennis surprised everyone by starting a career as a pop singer.
Everyone already loved the Australian actor from his role as businessman Paul Robinson on the show Neighbours. But he quickly traded in his professional suit for a more rebellious look – a leather jacket and faded jeans, inspired by George Michael.
At 31, Dennis seemed to be trying to recapture his youth with his first single, “Don’t It Make You Feel Good,” released in 1989. It was a clear attempt to follow in the footsteps of younger pop stars like Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan.
Although Dennis reached number 16 on the UK Singles Chart, suggesting a promising career, it unfortunately turned out to be his biggest success as a singer.
His last album, ‘This Love Affair,’ only reached number 67 on the charts, after which the artist decided to stop making music.
11. DANNII MINOGUE
These days, Dannii Minogue is most recognized for her work as a judge and host on popular reality TV shows like The X Factor UK, Australia’s Got Talent, The Masked Singer Australia, and I Kissed A Girl.
Forty years ago, she was beginning to make a name for herself as an actress, stepping out from under the shadow of her older sister, Kylie. Her career started with a memorable role on the popular Australian soap opera, Home and Away.
Kylie Minogue played the character of Emma Jackson, a young, spirited girl, on a television soap opera. Her performance earned her two nominations for Australian Logie Awards, but she left the show in 1990, just over a year after starting her role.
Eager to build on her sister’s success, the singer signed her first record deal with Mushroom Records in 1989 and released her debut album, ‘Dannii,’ the next year.
The album generated several moderately popular singles in her native country, including “Love And Kisses,” “Success,” and “I Don’t Wanna Take This Pain.”
The album was re-released in the UK in 1991 under the title Love And Kisses, featuring a slightly different set of songs. It reached number eight on the UK Album Chart, performing quite well.
Over the next thirty years, Minogue released five more albums, with their success levels differing from one to another.
Her final album to date, the nightlife inspired Club Disco, was released in 2017.
12. KYLIE MINOGUE AND JASON DONOVAN
After leaving the show Neighbours in 1988, both Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan, who played the popular couple Charlene and Scott Robinson, went on to have very successful careers.
I’ve always thought Kylie Minogue is the ultimate goal for any actor who also loves music. Ever since ‘I Should Be So Lucky’ hit number one in the UK, she’s become a true pop icon – and honestly, she still is!
Okay, seriously, this woman is EVERYTHING. I’ve been a fan forever, and it’s not just me – she’s absolutely HUGE. She’s sold over 80 MILLION records worldwide, which makes her the best-selling female artist Australia has ever produced. I mean, come on, that’s incredible! I’m not surprised, though – she deserves all the success in the world!
She has released 17 studio albums and holds the unique distinction of being the only female artist to achieve top ten singles in the UK for five straight decades.
Although Jason Donovan didn’t reach the same level of pop stardom as his “Neighbours” co-star Kylie Minogue, he was still incredibly successful. His first album, Ten Good Reasons, went to number one in the UK in 1989, and it produced a string of hit singles, including the chart-topping song “Too Many Broken Hearts.”
In 1988, he also reached the top of the UK charts with “Especially For You,” his famous duet with Kylie Minogue.
The Australian singer first gained fame as a product of the popular Stock, Aitken and Waterman hit factory. However, his second album, Between The Lines, turned out to be his final commercially successful release.
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2025-11-08 18:26