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In a revealing new interview, Perrie Edwards admitted that she and the remaining members of Little Mix—Leigh-Anne Pinnock and Jade Thirlwall—still talk about Jesy Nelson’s departure from the group, even though it has been nearly five years since she left. The Shout Out To My Ex singer reflected on the difficult period after Nelson’s exit in 2020, calling the situation “really sad” and sharing that the loss still stings emotionally.
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Speaking on Alison Hammond’s Big Weekend, Edwards opened up about the emotional impact of losing a friend and bandmate in such a close-knit environment. She confirmed that despite the initial reports suggesting a harmonious split, the band members have had no contact with Jesy Nelson since her departure.
The Emotional Toll of Jesy Nelson’s Exit
Jesy Nelson announced her exit from Little Mix in December 2020, citing the mental health toll of being in the public eye and the pressures of being part of a global pop group. At the time, Nelson was vocal about the impact the industry had on her well-being, and her decision was initially presented as a mutual and respectful parting.
However, Edwards’ interview sheds light on the deeper emotional consequences of Nelson’s exit. Despite their years of friendship, Edwards confessed that there had been no communication between them since Jesy’s departure.
“We haven’t spoken since she left. It’s heartbreaking, isn’t it?” Edwards shared, her voice tinged with sadness.
Edwards went on to explain the emotional weight of the situation, revealing that the experience of losing a friend in the context of working together as a band felt just as painful, if not worse, than a romantic breakup.
“I wrote a song about it, and every time I listen to it I cry. I think losing a friend in that same dynamic and in that same world, is just as bad [as breaking up with a romantic partner], if not worse,” she admitted.
Moving On But Not Forgetting
Despite the unresolved tension, Perrie Edwards made it clear that she and her bandmates did everything they could at the time to handle the situation in the most supportive way possible. Looking back, Edwards seems to have a sense of acceptance, although the pain still lingers.
“I think in the moment, we did everything we could. So, some things just happen,” Edwards said. “It is really sad.”
The emotional interview paints a picture of how the Little Mix girls have navigated this difficult chapter in their careers and personal lives. After nearly two decades of sharing everything, from stage performances to personal struggles, the breakup has undoubtedly had a lasting emotional impact on all of them.
A Personal and Professional Loss
Jesy Nelson’s departure not only marked the end of an era for Little Mix but also signaled a major turning point for the band. Since then, the trio—Perrie, Leigh-Anne, and Jade—have continued to thrive as a three-piece group, but their journey has been marked by the absence of their original member.
For Jesy, leaving Little Mix allowed her to focus on her solo career, which has garnered significant attention with her debut single “Bad Thing” and subsequent work. However, Edwards’ comments underscore that while they have all moved on in different directions, the emotional bond shared during their years together is hard to break.
The Power of Friendship and Healing
Perrie Edwards’ openness in discussing the impact of losing Jesy Nelson is a powerful reminder of the personal sacrifices that come with fame. In addition to the public side of their split, there’s an undeniable human element to the situation—one that transcends professional dynamics and highlights the importance of friendship and emotional well-being.
For now, it seems the remaining members of Little Mix are continuing their careers, but the door remains closed on any potential reunion with Jesy. In the end, they remain focused on the future, though they will always carry the memories of their shared journey as a four-member group.
In the same breath, Edwards’ candid interview serves as a testament to the long-lasting effects of friendships forged in the high-pressure world of pop stardom, where the personal and professional often collide.