Noughties bands Hear’Say and Liberty X, who were formed on the reality series Popstars, are set to embark on a joint arena tour next year.
Hear’Say shot to fame as the the winning group in the 2000 TV show – rebranded as Popstars: The Rivals when it returned for a second series – and comprised singers Danny Foster, Myleene Klass, Kym Marsh, Suzanne Shaw and Noel Sullivan.
The group sold three million records and celebrated two UK No 1 hits but disbanded 18 months after their formation.
Klass is the only member not to return for the new tour, stating during an appearance on Loose Women this week: “They were really sweet and they did include me in the discussions but it’s not something I can commit to at the moment, I just really can’t.”
Liberty X, meanwhile, were formed of the losing finalists during the initial series of Popstars. They nonetheless went on to achieve greater commercial success over a longer period of time, achieving 10 consecutive Top 20 singles before splitting up in 2007.
All five members – Michelle Heaton, Tony Lundon, Kevin Simm, Jessica Taylor and Kelli Young – are set to return for the forthcoming tour, which will span 13 dates in 2027.
Speaking about their comeback, Hear’Say said: “Coming back together after 25 years is something that's incredibly special to all of us.
“It's a chance to celebrate an unforgettable chapter in our lives, reconnect with each other and relive so many amazing memories. To be sharing the stage with Liberty X makes this celebration even more special, and it feels like the perfect way to mark such an incredible milestone.”
The statement continued: “We are so excited to be celebrating with everyone and honestly can't wait to reconnect with the Hear'Say fans. To relive those amazing memories together and create some new ones along the way is going to be very special. We are counting down the days and can't wait to see you there.”
Liberty X also issued a statement ahead of the new tour.
“It's hard to believe it's been 25 years since Popstars changed all of our lives,” the band said. “We are thrilled to be heading out on tour with Hear'Say to celebrate where it all began.
“It feels like the perfect way to mark such an incredible milestone, bringing the music, the memories and all the energy back to the stage. Most of all, we can't wait to celebrate with all of you. Whether you've been with us since day one or you're discovering these songs all over again, we can't wait to sing, dance and make some brand new memories together. See you on tour!”
Tickets will go on sale on Friday, 16 October.
Read MoreKey to Sir Paul McCartney’s childhood home sells for thousands at auction
Music legend calls out festival after concertgoer’s death: ‘You should have stopped’
The Beach Boys cancel yet another show as comeback tour mystery deepens
Dolly Parton estate alleges nephew installed barbed wire to avoid being served
Happy Mondays’ Bez says he apologised to his mum for ‘out of control’ behaviour
Cruz Beckham to undergo new UK and Ireland tour with rising rock band
