Gareth Gates has opened up about his brief relationship with Katie Price, recounting his feelings of shock when she publicly announced they had slept together. The singer, who gained fame at 17 through the first series of Pop Idol in early 2002, reflected on the challenges he faced at such a young age.
Gareth Gates on His Relationship with Katie Price
In a discussion on the Great Company podcast with Jamie Laing, Gates admitted that he was startled by Price’s revelation. At the time, Price, known by her model name Jordan, claimed she took his virginity, a fact that Gates felt should have remained private.
- Age of Fame: Gareth Gates was just 17 when he gained fame.
- Public Announcement: Price declared their intimate relationship in a public forum.
- Gates’ Reflection: Gates stated he would never disclose such personal information.
The 41-year-old singer expressed that relationships are inherently private. He stated, “I couldn’t believe that somebody else was selling stories about very intimate details. I was shocked. But I learned a lot about the industry, and trust.” This experience taught him to be more cautious in his interactions.
Lessons Learned from a Public Relationship
Gates described the impact of this event on his perception of trust. He mentioned how the relationship became a talking point, overshadowing his artistic ambitions. He commented, “It became the main thing that everyone wanted to know about. It was a shame I had to talk about it when I just wanted to be an artist.”
The singer further explained that being thrust into the spotlight at such a young age left him feeling vulnerable. He noted, “I was a boy at the time – I wasn’t even an adult. It made me extremely wary.” Gareth’s experiences prompted him to be cautious about communication, even regarding simple messages.
Insights on Trust and Relationships
Despite the challenges, Gates referred to Katie Price as a “lovely girl.” He recognized the complexity of navigating relationships in the public eye. His reflections highlight the difficulties faced by young celebrities in maintaining privacy and trust.
In contrast, Price has previously defended their relationship in interviews. She discussed their past candidly, stating, “Yeah I took his virginity when I was six months pregnant.” This comment has added another layer to their complicated history.
These insights serve as a reminder of how fame can complicate personal relationships and affect one’s ability to trust others. As Gates continues his journey in music and theatre, his past experiences shape his perspective on the entertainment industry.
