Noughties icon Lemar reveals why he would never return to reality TV after his experience on Fame Academy

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Lemar Obika has explained his decision to stop appearing on reality television, years after becoming well-known on Fame Academy.

The R&B singer became well-known after appearing on a BBC show in 2002, placing third. Sinead Quinn was the runner-up, and David Sneddon won.

Oh my gosh, remember that show? It was EVERYTHING! They said the winner would get a million-pound record deal – a MILLION! – and it felt like a dream come true for whoever won. But honestly, it was so heartbreaking. It was cancelled after only two seasons. TWO! The ratings just weren’t high enough, and it was just…gone. I still can’t believe it. It had SO much potential!

In a recent interview with the Daily Mail, Lemar stated he doesn’t want to return to the type of performance that first made him famous.

When asked if he would ever return to reality television, he said: ‘Competition show, no.

I always view things as simply trying something new and different.

It was a fresh experience for me as an actor. However, people seem to view it as a competition, and I feel I’ve handled that aspect well.

I’m always willing to consider new opportunities or experiences if they arise, especially if they seem interesting or different.

Even though he’s no longer competing on shows like those from his earlier career, Lemar has made appearances on Dancing on Ice and The Masked Singer US.

Now 48 years old, he’s enjoyed a long and successful music career since appearing on Fame Academy. He’s released seven albums and become a well-known figure in British R&B.

He’s known for popular songs like the energetic 50/50 and the heartfelt ballad, If There’s Any Justice.

Seriously, Lemar isn’t just an incredible singer, you guys! He’s racked up BRIT and MOBO Awards – so many, it’s amazing! And it doesn’t stop there. He actually was on stage in the West End, which blew me away, and then he was in Queen Charlotte on Netflix! I was losing it when I saw him – it’s just proof he can do absolutely anything. I’m completely obsessed!

Considering all he’s achieved, it’s surprising to learn that Fame Academy was almost his last attempt at a music career. He was seriously thinking about giving up and becoming a computer programmer if it hadn’t worked out.

Even before appearing on Fame Academy, the singer had been working for eight years to launch his music career. He was 24 years old at the time.

He even put his pharmacy studies at Cardiff University on hold in the process.

The BBC competition felt like his last opportunity to achieve his dreams and finally earn his parents’ approval.

He explained: ‘Fame Academy was like the absolute last roll of the dice.

I was planning to return to university and thought I might try studying computer programming again. But then I realized it had been too long, and I decided to move on.

‘I just literally just threw the dice one more, and it worked.’

I’m so thrilled to see Lemar back in the music scene! After taking a little break back in 2015, he’s really delivered with his newest album, ‘Page In My Heart,’ which came out in 2023. It’s a beautiful record and a wonderful return for a truly talented artist.

Only a month after the song came out, he shared that he’d developed tinnitus, which causes a constant ringing or buzzing in the ears.

While there is currently no universal cure, symptoms can be managed.

He admitted it wasn’t ideal, saying he’d prefer to avoid the situation, but explained it sometimes comes with the territory of his work.

He added that he’s hoping researchers will eventually discover a cure for the condition.

I’m fortunate that the sounds I experience aren’t too bad. Some people have it much worse, so a bit of background noise doesn’t bother me much.

Looking ahead, Lemar hinted that new music could be on the horizon.

He said: ‘I’m always writing music, so there may be something at the end of the year.

‘But this year it’s just live performances.’

He’s scheduled to perform on the Marella Voyager in May 2026 as part of Marella Cruises’ 30th anniversary celebrations, which will also take place on the Marella Explorer 2.

He will be performing during a seven-night sailing from May 7 to May 14.

He mentioned he’s excited about the upcoming performance, as he’s never played on one of these cruises before. He’s looking forward to performing, enjoying the sunshine, connecting with the audience, and having a great time.

‘Let’s have a good evening.’

Find out more about Marella Cruises’ holidays at www.tui.co.uk/cruise/ 

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2026-04-24 17:04