Life after Last Christmas: As Wham’s festive hit turns 40, how life took a dark turn for some of the stars who appeared with George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley
In delving into the lives of these individuals who graced our screens alongside George Michael in the iconic music video for Last Christmas, one cannot help but be captivated by their diverse journeys since then.
The story had both sweet and bitter moments about lost affection during the holiday celebration, making it quite appropriate that the enduring impact of Wham’s beloved song “Last Christmas” carries a tinge of melancholy along with its legacy.
2021 signifies the 40th anniversary of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley‘s ballad first airing, establishing itself as one of the most iconic holiday songs ever made, and its music video featuring a journey to a ski chalet, which is cherished just as much as the song itself.
To celebrate the event, Andrew has traveled back to the very Swiss Alpine village where the video was originally recorded. Accompanying him are Shirlie Kemp and Helen ‘Pepsi’ DeMacque, members of Wham! backing singers, along with Jon Fowler, Cheryl Harrison, Pat Fernandes, and David Ridler – all of whom were featured in the video as well.
The journey was additionally created as a tribute to George, after his passing in 2016 at the age of 53. Andrew mentioned in a documentary commemorating the anniversary: “There’s a sense of incompleteness being here without George. His departure felt like he left us at Christmas.
Experiencing the loss of a cherished friend, someone with whom I shared a special connection, was an incredibly agonizing experience. He wasn’t just a friend; he was like the other part of me, and I couldn’t imagine my life without him.
As a devoted admirer, I had the privilege of witnessing their final joint performance at WHAM!’s Farewell concert held at Wembley Stadium back in June 1986. Since then, whispers of a reunion have circulated frequently, but to my dismay, they’ve never shared the stage together again.
It wasn’t until 31 years later that Andrew, Pepsi, and Shirley shared a public stage once more, this time happening at the BRIT Awards in 2017, where they honored George.
Since the release of Last Christmas’ video, which was revolutionary due to its storyline emphasis rather than performance, the careers of several featured artists have shown diverse trajectories.
Throughout the ’80s, Wham was a highly successful musical act. However, several other faces from their videos faced personal challenges such as battles with alcohol, conflicts behind the scenes, and encounters with legal issues.
Previously, “Last Christmas” made it to the top of the UK music charts in January 2021, thanks to an extensive fan-led initiative. This year, there are predictions that it will compete yet again for the prestigious title of Christmas number one.
TopMob examines an unexpectedly somber shift in the lives of certain stars from the movie Last Christmas.
Andrew Ridgeley
For approximately two decades, Andrew has generally preferred to stay out of the spotlight following the dissolution of Wham!, as his endeavors to explore different professions didn’t yield success.
Immediately following the disbandment of the group, he temporarily relocated to Monaco with aspirations of competing in Formula Three auto racing. Later on, he ventured into acting in Los Angeles.
In 1990, he made a permanent return to the United Kingdom and put out his debut solo album titled “Son of Albert.” However, this release failed to meet expectations on both critical and commercial fronts.
In that very same year, luck smiled upon him in his personal life as he began dating his longstanding friend, Keren Woodward, who is famously known as part of Bananarama.
1991 saw him step onto the stage with George during the encore at the Rock in Rio concert held at the Maracanã Stadium in Brazil. This marked the conclusion of his public performances in a memorable way.
After that, he mostly avoided the spotlight, permanently leaving London in 1994 to settle at a 15th-century farmhouse in Cornwall with Woodward and their son Tom instead.
Regardless of not achieving significant commercial profits, Andrew manages to maintain a comfortable lifestyle due to the royalty earnings from “Careless Whisper,” a song he collaborated on with George Michael. He’s been estimated to have earned around £10 million from this hit track since its release in 1982.
In earlier times, Andrew tended to maintain a quiet presence, primarily appearing in public to advocate for environmental issues, specifically focusing on cleaner, safer water. However, since George’s passing, Andrew has become more visible in public arenas.
2019 saw him publishing a memoir named “George & Me,” which delved into the challenges George faced as he maintained the facade of being straight during the peak period of his career with Wham!
In 1983, while filming Club Tropicana together, Andrew became aware that Michael was homosexual. However, it wasn’t until fifteen years later that Michael made his sexuality public knowledge.
He showed that Michael maintained a mask out of concern that disclosing personal matters might tarnish his career and hinder his ability to compete alongside celebrities like Michael Jackson.
In the book, I openly acknowledge a feeling of envy towards my dear friend Michael at times, despite our strong connection.
He writes that, while he was ‘amazed’ by his friend’s ‘prodigious talent’, it ‘would have been fabulous to have some of that stardust sprinkled upon me’.
Andrew played a significant role in creating a highly acclaimed Netflix documentary about Wham!, which celebrated their 40th anniversary. The film left fans feeling nostalgic and excited, giving them goosebumps.
Among the creators, Simon Halfon, shares that his group diligently searched for video and audio clips for more than two years. Being a close associate of both individuals, he knew just where to find relevant materials.
Over the past few years, Andrew’s romantic journey has seen some thrilling ups and downs, particularly since he parted ways with Keren in 2017, after being together for a remarkable 27 years.
A while back, the celebrity disclosed that he’s currently engaged in multiple romantic involvements and has given up on the idea of being exclusively committed to one partner.
The former singer has also recently split from socialite Amanda Cronin in May.
Andrew affirmed that he’s content being unattached at the moment, yet mentioned that he’s seeing several individuals. However, he chose to maintain anonymity regarding those he’s dating.
In conversation with The Telegraph, Andrew expressed his preference for safeguarding the privacy of women he has romantic connections or feelings towards.
‘It would be something that one would have to mutually agree if one were to make it public.’
When asked about his current romantic situation, he responded: ‘I don’t have a romantic partner at the moment, but I’ve had multiple romantic relationships.’
He explained that, at the moment, he finds it challenging to sustain a committed relationship due to his current lifestyle.
Andrew expressed that love takes on numerous shapes. For quite some time, he was in a long-standing relationship with Keren, and even now, they continue to harbor deep affection towards one another.
Currently, I don’t have plans to pursue a monogamous relationship or make a long-term commitment to just one person anytime soon.
Due to my nomadic lifestyle, maintaining a steady relationship has its challenges since I don’t reside permanently in one location. However, I’m contentedly enjoying the single life for now.
Previously, his ex-girlfriend, Amanda, mentioned that the reason for their breakup was due to contrasting perspectives on monogamy. She further clarified that for her next relationship, she desired a partner who aligned with her core beliefs and values.
She shared with the Daily Mail: “I’m seeking a committed, one-person relationship. Whenever Mr Perfect appears, we’ll share similar values.
I have a classic, small-town charm, and I’m quite old-fashioned. I also value depth in relationships and prefer the company of individuals who appreciate this quality in me.
Andrew is also a keen cyclist and often shares social media posts about his latest treks.
Shirlie Kemp
Together with Pepsi DeMacque, Shirlie served as both backup singer and dancer during Wham!’s peak popularity.
Following the disbandment of Wham!, they went on to create the duo Pepsi & Shirlie, achieving two UK Top 10 hits with the songs “Heartache” and “Goodbye Stranger.
They also provided backing vocals on Geri Haliwell’s 200 number one Bag It Up.
Besides providing a stage for singers to gain fame, their time with Wham! also paved the way for Shirlie to meet her future husband, Martin Kemp from Spandau Ballet. Their son Roman mentioned that this association compelled George to contact Shirlie.
Martin shared with Piers Morgan on Life Stories that he recalls our very first date with Shirlie, and George was there as our chaperone. The entire night, I attempted to shake off George, hoping to find a quiet spot where me and Shirlie could share a kiss.
In 1988, the pair tied the knot and later welcomed their daughter Harley Moon and son Roman into the world, with Roman being George’s godchild.
1995 saw Martin’s diagnosis with two brain tumors, leading Shirlie to temporarily halt her professional endeavors to care for him. Unfortunately, this period resulted in her declaring bankruptcy.
I had the incredible opportunity to step into a part-time position at George Michael’s label, Aegean, which is managed by his esteemed cousin, Andros Georgiou. It was an absolute dream come true for this diehard fan!
In the end, the business didn’t succeed, yet Shirlie managed to carve out a different path for herself, becoming a skilled photographer and interior decorator.
She specialised in vintage style table adornments and whimsical style photographic portraits.
Shirlie is also a patron of the bereavement charity the Good Grief Trust.
George maintained a close bond with her akin to that of a brother, and they were scheduled to celebrate Boxing Day together with the singer. Unfortunately, he passed away before the event took place.
In 2019, she and Martin released their first album together, which largely contained jazz covers.
In the subsequent year, Shirlie and Martin Kemp published a combined autobiography and guide on relationships, titled “It’s a Love Story”.
2021 saw Shirlie appear in the critically acclaimed mental health documentary of her son, Roman Kemp, titled “Roman Kemp: Unheard Crisis.
Earlier this year, she and Martin featured on the fourth series of The Masked Singer.
Helen ‘Pepsi Demacque’
Besides being a member of Pepsi & Shirlie, Helen, aged 65, also worked together with Mike Oldfield in the late ’90s. She performed with him during his Then & Now tour and at the debut of Tubular Bells III.
She also dabbled with acting, appearing in the musical Hair at London’s Old Vic Theatre in 1993.
In my journey, I decided to step away from the limelight and relocate to the serene beauty of New Zealand. Here, I found myself working at a charming gift shop nestled along the bustling streets of Lambton Quay, where each day offers a new opportunity to connect with people and immerse myself in the unique culture this land has to offer.
Afterward, the vocalist moved to St. Lucia, her homeland where her ancestors originated. Now, she operates a sailing charter business alongside her spouse, James.
Beyond organizing tours for vacationers, this company also provides a summer internship program in collaboration with the National Skills Development Centre. This program aims to assist students in finding employment opportunities while imparting essential life skills to them.
‘My life in the Caribbean is very different to London life but just as exciting,’ she says.
I’m finding and appreciating fresh methods of living. Adoring sunsets, cuisine, folks, scenery, and an abundance of other things as well.
In her Twitter bio, she identifies as a singer, actress, author, traveler, and more, while her Instagram bio hints at the upcoming release of her first novel in 2024.
It is understood that Helen practices Buddhism.
In 2021, the pair came out with a book called It’s All in Black and White.
Last year on Loose Women, Shirlie expressed this meaning: “When I was younger, people often told me ‘You can always see things as if they are in black and white.’ This phrase suggested that I had a clear perspective or it meant I didn’t.
‘But then, a black girl and a white girl, you can take it that way.
‘It never meant anything to us, we were just friends.’
Andros Georgiou
Back in the day, I was more than just a friend to George – we were practically like cousins, so tightly knit were our bonds!
In 1998, despite both being involved in the music industry, there was a dramatic rift between them. Andros asserted that he possesses a trove of unreleased compositions, which were penned and performed by George.
On the Victoria Derbyshire Show, Andros portrayed Georga as a reserved yet extremely kind-hearted individual, someone you’d be lucky to encounter. He also revealed their tradition of cruising through the West End during Christmastime in two Range Rovers, overflowing with food meant for those less fortunate.
Previously, Andros mentioned an instance where, since George couldn’t attend a charity auction organized by the Elton John AIDS Foundation, Andros recalled that George suggested him to “simply purchase all items” when no one else was bidding.
George held the role of godfather for Andros’s son, James Kennedy, but regretted that they couldn’t mend their differences prior to his passing.
He said: ‘That hurts the most, that I didn’t get to say goodbye.’
In 2020, Andros announced his intention to unveil a series of songs he had recorded with George and their band Boogie Box High between 1987 and 1997.
Despite building a successful acting career, Andros’ former partner Jacqueline has faced her own set of challenges too.
In the past, she battled alcohol addiction, a fact that her son James Kennedy, a cast member of the American reality show Vanderpump Rules, has spoken about in terms of her journey towards sobriety.
In the year 2020, they shared their path towards sobriety on the Daily Dish podcast, with him stating: “She’s managed to stay sober for more than a year now, which has significantly strengthened our relationship.
She messages me daily, we converse on a regular basis, and since we reside merely ten minutes apart, I enjoy spending time with her. I occasionally take her out for lunch a few times a week.
Since I gave up drinking, our bond has grown significantly, and we’ve been enjoying a much closer relationship. Now that we’re both abstaining, we find ourselves appreciating the good things in life more and more each day, which is truly wonderful, isn’t it?
I must admit, I didn’t anticipate this turn of events, yet here we are, and it’s truly astonishing. The truth is now out in the open.
In a nutshell, there’s no more hiding or pretending anymore. You understand what I’m saying? I’m talking about those long-kept family secrets that can be tough to move past. After all, we all cherish our mothers deeply, yet sometimes, the truth can be hard to swallow, right?
Certain information is concealed or withheld, leading to misunderstandings, and unfortunately, it can tear families apart on occasion.
It’s not surprising that, having a son who is a star on one of Bravo’s top reality shows, Jacqueline encountered other Vanderpump Rules cast members.
In the year 2016, Stassi Schroeder made startling accusations regarding James’ mother. Among these allegations were suggestions that she had committed a robbery at a bank and resorted to using marijuana as a means to aid in her sleep.
On her Reality Tea podcast, Stassi commented: “Apparently, she stole from a bank! I’m not sure if it’s okay for me to mention that.
As a lifestyle advisor, I find myself in situations where intriguing tales unfold. Recently, I’ve come across an individual who, in a rather unconventional manner, obtained wealth – first by robbing a bank and secondly, acquiring funds from Kristen. The magnitude of this act has sparked quite the buzz.
Later on, I’d like to clarify that Jacqueline indeed worked there, however, it’s important to note that this isn’t the sole assertion regarding her.
In actuality, I previously mentioned rumors suggesting Jacqueline may have taken possession of Kristen Doute’s credit card, allegedly utilizing it for Botox purchases. However, the true turning point occurred when the transaction was flagged by the spa, ultimately leading to the discovery of this supposed theft.
Kathy Hill
67-year-old Kathy charmed the nation with her luscious dark curls and cheerful yellow sweater in the beloved video, where she played George’s romantic interest in the timeless Last Christmas production.
Nevertheless, she appears almost unrecognizable compared to her music video days, as she has traded her dark tresses for golden ringlets instead.
The star recently revealed she featured on the Celebrity Christmas single So Delicious which is raising money for Great Ormond Street hospital.
Additionally, she proudly displayed her remarkable figure and well-defined abdominals in swimsuit pictures while posting updates about her vacation on various social media platforms.
Previously Kathy spoke about her experience filming the famous video with Wham!
She shared with The Mirror, “It was incredibly enjoyable and felt very authentic. Everything fit perfectly. There was no setup involved – it was simply a gathering of friends enjoying themselves. That’s the enchantment.
At the holiday-themed dining table, we each had a few more drinks than usual. While it seems that George may have abstained, the rest of us certainly indulged. I found myself consuming quite a bit of red wine.
She also revealed that George’s fall in the snow wasn’t staged and he actually slipped.
In one of our shoots, I found myself in an unplanned yet hilarious situation when George, in a bout of mishap, tumbled down and landed on me, causing us both to burst into laughter. That moment was captured and it remains my favorite scene due to its spontaneity and the genuine humor it exudes. Despite his struggles to get up, we were unable to contain our laughter, making it an authentic, joyful experience.
David Ridler
In the movie Last Christmas, David briefly appeared carrying logs for his role, which has remained a funny anecdote shared by him and Jon Fowler, another actor from the film, as they look back on it many years later.
Previously, Jon shared with The Telegraph, “It wasn’t offered to me, and it still lingers. This topic often comes up in our conversations. We might be at the rugby club, and someone would jest, ‘Why was he the one to haul the logs?’
‘I usurped Jonny for that spot and he’s never forgiven me,’ David joked. ‘He’s very bitter.’
David teamed up with Andrew to launch a bar in north London, occasionally surprising the residents by making appearances, courtesy of George.
Debbie Killingback
Debbie, with her bubbly hairdo and striking good looks, is known for portraying George’s romantic interest in the movie Last Christmas.
Following George’s death in 2016, she paid an emotional tribute to him outside his home.
She recalled Michael, who passed away on Christmas Day at the age of 53, as an incredibly exceptional individual during her visit to his residence in north London.
While handing over the bouquet and showing a picture of him alongside the ex-Wham! celebrity, she remarked: ‘He was genuinely kind, ordinary, and unpretentious.’
He was truly delightful, always ready for a good chuckle, and simply outstanding. Following the recording of the video, we all grew quite fond of him.
Looking back at her role in the popular music video, I recall an evening when we shared some beverages, but George proved to be quite impressive.
Apart from a bed scene, which ended up on the cutting room floor, we experienced it initially. Upon returning, I unfortunately missed my flight, and there, at the airport, George humorously commented: “It seemed like you’d been abducted.
Pat Fernandez
In the ’80s, Pat used to date George, and she appeared in various music videos by Wham, such as “Wake Me Up Before You Go Go” and “Last Christmas”.
Apart from her modeling career, she’s been less visible following her breakup.
Mark Monero
Following his brief cameo in Last Christmas, Mark Monero has since taken on a series of additional acting gigs. These include short-term appearances in Coronation Street, The Bill, and Doctor Who.
He also had a seven-year stint as Steve Elliot in EastEnders from 1991 to 1996.
Apart from that, he was featured in the 1986 television serial titled “Sid And Nancy,” and more recently, in the ITV series called “The Tower” during the previous year.
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2024-12-06 05:08