Roman Kemp reveals ‘traumatic’ and ‘soul crushing’ modelling past has left him battling body dysmorphia

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Roman Kemp candidly discusses the emotionally draining impact of his modeling career during his teen years. He confessed that this experience has left such deep emotional scars that to this day, he finds it difficult to disrobe in front of mirrors or watch himself on screen.

Prior to achieving widespread recognition, at the age of 32, Roman was the face of advertising campaigns for brands such as Topman and ASOS.

Reflecting on his experiences within the industry, he shared an embarrassing moment where he was asked to undress down to his undergarments for stern casting boards.

When he was 19 years old, he found himself prominently displayed on a large billboard for Topman at Oxford Circus. However, he described this experience as terrible and awful beyond measure. Many people may not be aware of this, but he went on to say that it was one of the most soul-crushing experiences he had ever encountered.

Born to Martin Kemp from Spandau Ballet and Shirlie Holliman, a former member of Wham!, Roman Kemp initially pursued modeling but later transitioned into broadcasting. He gained notoriety as a host on Capital FM radio and currently presents shows on BBC’s The One Show and Sky Sports’ Premier League Friday.

Reflecting on my journey in the world of fashion during my “About You?” podcast, I shared memories from the early stages of my career. Back then, as an aspiring fashion industry hopeful, I’d attend castings where I’d enter rooms with a small card, about the size of a birthday card, showcasing my photograph and measurements.

Upon entering, the atmosphere felt similar to an audition for a show like American Idol or The X Factor. A clique of fashion-forward individuals seemed to overlook you. They didn’t greet you warmly, barely catching your eye, making it seem as though you were invisible to them. It was as if they treated you with disdain.

Later on, the individual in charge might say, “Please remove your shirt!” So you find yourself standing there in your underwear as they circulate your card among them.

Afterward, they’d instruct you to stride back and forth. The toughest part, though, was the prolonged anticipation of whether they’d raise their hand to retain your ticket. Essentially, it felt like they might get back to you later. Frankly, it was quite agonizing.

Roman openly confessed that he frequently judged himself quite harshly against others in the room, stating, “I’d often look around and think, ‘He’s more attractive than me, why am I even here?’ The industry left a bitter taste in my mouth. In fact, I absolutely detested it.

Despite acknowledging the initial financial benefits, he remarked that the job was demanding, as he often worked 12-hour shifts and had to try on numerous outfits, followed by hurrying off to catwalk rehearsals.

He shared that his appearance is characterized by a slender physique. Whenever he visited ASOS, he felt he only fitted into their mesh-made clothing. Unfortunately, he usually found the clothes they offered to be less appealing.

During his talk, the presenter remembered an upsetting episode that occurred during a Milan fashion show rehearsal. He shared: “A young woman at the rehearsal was physically unwell. On stage, she collapsed during practice. Others attempted to feed her, but she declined due to the pressure to secure the job and external expectations. This situation recurred frequently and it was truly disheartening.

Although Roman has since quit modelling, the experience still affects him daily.

He shared: “I find it distressing to view a photo of myself on the same day, as it leaves me feeling upset for the remainder of the day. However, I can comfortably look at a picture that was taken two weeks prior.

Although on The One Show, they may air a video of me performing somewhere else, prompting viewers to watch it. However, I try my best to avoid watching it myself because I find myself critiquing every aspect, not just the performance, but also my appearance. It becomes less about what I’m doing and more about how I look, which I aim to avoid. I prefer to focus on the content of my work rather than my physical appearance on screen.

The talk show host went on to say: “Perhaps I struggle with something similar to body dysmorphia, and I make every effort to prevent it. When I enter a fitting room at a store, I deliberately avoid looking in the mirror until I have put on my clothes.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health issue characterized by excessive preoccupation with perceived or imagined imperfections in one’s physical appearance, which are typically not apparent to others.

He expressed his concern, stating that weight is a significant issue we face in today’s society. He feels deeply sympathetic towards the burden it imposes, particularly on women.

He commented that weight is a substantial challenge in our world. He empathizes with the strain it causes, especially for women.

He indicated that the emphasis on looks isn’t exclusive to him, adding: “There are numerous individuals, including my friends, who face the same struggle. Friends of mine often call me asking for honest opinions, like ‘come on, am I overweight?’

Roman, in the past, has openly discussed his mental health issues with his fans. He also provided an update on his well-being to his followers back in November.

He shared that as he’s currently figuring out why he’s been experiencing stronger emotions, such as crying more frequently and potentially being shorter-tempered with his friends, he’s eager to understand the true nature of his emotional self.

Roman openly discusses his personal battles with mental health issues and has been relentless in advocating for change after the tragic suicide of his friend, radio producer Joe Lyons.

Roman posted a selfie with the caption: “Four months have passed since I stopped using antidepressants, and I can confidently say that they are no longer in my body.

‘Something I have taken since I was 15 years old.’

 

For those who might have been impacted by this narrative, assistance can be found at Beat. You can reach out to them by calling 0808 801 0677, or alternatively, you can send an email to help@beateatingdisorders.org.uk.

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2025-08-22 15:33