Brian McFadden Reveals Regret: “I Wouldn’t Have Left Westlife Today”

Brian McFadden has shared a major personal regret. The former Westlife star says he would not quit the band if he was in his current mindset. He made the statement in a new interview.

The singer left the global pop phenomenon in 2004. He cited a desire to spend more time with his then-wife, Kerry Katona, and their children. This revelation adds new context to his departure two decades ago.

The Headspace Behind a Pop Exit

McFadden’s comments came during a press conference with his former bandmates. According to The i newspaper, he reflected on his state of mind at the time. He was married to Atomic Kitten singer Kerry Katona from 2002 to 2006.

They share two daughters, Molly and Lily-Sue. The singer stated he intended to leave the group to focus on his young family. His personal priorities directly conflicted with the band’s demanding international schedule.

“If I was in a headspace like I am now, yeah, I probably wouldn’t have left,” McFadden confessed. He acknowledged his past perspective was different. “But I can’t change how my head was back then,” he added.

Life After the Boyband Spotlight

The interview surfaced months after the BBC documentary ‘Boybands Forever’. It explores the immense pressures of that pop era. McFadden’s candid admission highlights the personal costs behind the glamour.

Since leaving, he has pursued a solo career and television work. Westlife continued as a quartet, achieving further success before a hiatus. The band has since reunited for touring and new music.

McFadden was recently seen with his new wife, Danielle Parkinson, and his daughters. They attended a charity event in Dublin. He appears to have found a balance that eluded him during his Westlife fame.

The revelation provides a poignant look at a pivotal career moment. For Brian McFadden, Westlife represents a chapter shaped by a mindset he has since outgrown. His family remains his central focus, then and now.

Thought you’d like to know

Why did Brian McFadden originally leave Westlife?

He left in 2004 to spend more time with his family. He was married to Kerry Katona and wanted to focus on their two young daughters. The band’s intense schedule was a major factor.

Who was Brian McFadden married to when he was in Westlife?

He was married to Atomic Kitten singer Kerry Katona. Their marriage lasted from 2002 to 2006. They have two children together.

What has Brian McFadden done since leaving the band?

He launched a solo music career and moved into television presenting. He has also been involved in various reality TV shows. He remarried and continues to be in the public eye.

Is Westlife still performing without Brian McFadden?

Yes. The band continued as a four-piece after his departure. They took a break but have since reunited successfully. They continue to tour and release new music.

Where was this new interview published?

The candid interview was published by The i newspaper. It came months after a BBC documentary on boybands. The discussion provided fresh insight into his past decision.