Martin Kemp, the former bassist for Spandau Ballet, has shared his thoughts on his own mortality after facing significant health challenges, including brain tumours.
In a recent interview on his son Roman’s podcast FFS! My Dad is Martin Kemp, the 63-year-old musician and actor answered a question about how long he expects to live by saying that he thinks he only has ’10 years left to live.’
Kemp was diagnosed with two benign brain tumours as a young man. In 1995, he underwent surgery to remove the tumours, and during the two-year period leading up to his operation, he often thought he wouldn’t make it out alive.
Recalling the emotional turmoil of that time, Kemp shared: ‘When I went through all of that brain tumour scare, I spent two years of my life thinking I was going to die… every day, every year, every month that I’ve lived since then has been a bonus.’
He continued, explaining that his health issues have given him a sense of gratitude: ‘I was quite happy with my lot’ he said, adding that he had already experienced so much by the age of 34, considering himself lucky to have lived such a rich life.
Born in 1961, Kemp’s journey to fame began at a young age. Along with his brother Gary, he was part of a new wave of young British actors, appearing in classic television shows like Dixon of Dock Green and Jackanory.
But it was in the late 1970s that his name became synonymous with the rise of New Romantic music, when he co-founded Spandau Ballet with his brother Gary Kemp, Tony Hadley, Steve Norman, and John Keeble.
The band became a cornerstone of the era’s music, with hits like True, Gold, and Only When You Leave.
Their 1984 contribution to Band Aid’s Do They Know It’s Christmas? also cemented them in the history of music.
Despite the group’s eventual split in the early 90s, their legacy as one of the most influential bands of the era lives on.
Beyond his musical career, Kemp is also well known for his acting, with perhaps his most famous role being that of Steve Owen in EastEnders from 1998 to 2002.
More Trending
In recent years, Kemp has found a new public platform alongside his son Roman.
The pair have become a fan-favorite duo, starring in television shows like Martin & Roman’s Sunday Best and Celebrity Gogglebox.
Kemp’s personal life also includes his long marriage to Shirlie Holliman, whom he wed in 1988.
Holliman, a former backing singer for Wham! and half of the pop duo Pepsi & Shirlie, was also a part of the same musical era as her husband.
Got a story?
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
MORE: Classic 80s film star looks almost unrecognisable during New York City outing
MORE: Full list of Glastonbury 2025 headliner rumours after surprise first act confirmed
MORE: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s ‘replacement’ seen filming reboot of his iconic 80s movie in London
