Martin Kemp is currently navigating a challenging period alongside his wife, Shirlie, who has been candid about her struggles following a traumatic tour experience. The couple is known for their strong partnership, which is especially evident as they face the emotional aftermath of Shirlie’s performances as a backing singer for the pop band Wham! in China during 1985.
Shirlie’s ‘Traumatic’ Tour Experience
Shirlie performed in Beijing and Guangzhou alongside George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, marking a significant cultural milestone. Wham! was the first Western pop band to perform in China, a notable event in the realm of music history.
However, Shirlie described her experience in China as “the most shocking.” The Great Wall of China, a site with a tumultuous history, especially struck her. It’s estimated that countless lives were lost during its construction, earning it the title of “the longest cemetery on Earth.” Shirlie expressed her feelings on Travel Secrets The Podcast, reflecting on the loss of lives that were part of the Wall’s history.
Emotional and Financial Toll
Following the tour, the emotional burden brought additional financial strain to Martin Kemp. He noted that he incurred substantial expenses as he supported Shirlie with therapy to help her cope with her experience. He humorously remarked, “When Shirlie came back from China, it cost me a fortune in therapy.”
To help Shirlie heal, she requested a getaway to Florida. Her desire was to experience something “brand spanking new.” Martin jokingly acknowledged the mounting costs, highlighting both the therapy expenses and their trip to the United States.
Further Traumas During the Tour
Beyond Shirlie’s feelings, the Wham! tour contained additional unsettling incidents. A traumatic event occurred on their flight to the second show when one of their musicians, Portuguese trumpeter Raul D’Oliveira, reportedly suffered a psychotic episode. Witnesses described a chaotic scene where he stabbed himself and attempted to invade the cockpit before the flight crew managed to control the situation.
Janet Mooney, another backing singer, recounted the distressing nature of the tour, indicating that both the weather challenges and personal crises made the experience particularly harrowing for the team.
Shirlie’s Reflections Post-Tour
Despite the passage of time, Shirlie has not returned to China since that landmark tour with Wham!. Currently, Martin is in Australia participating in “I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” He remains supported by his fans as he competes for the title of king of the jungle, alongside other notable celebrities.
The resilience displayed by Martin and Shirlie throughout these challenges is a testament to their deep bond and partnership, as they navigate both personal and professional hardships together.
