Kim Wilde has shared that her experience touring with Michael Jackson during his peak fame made her contemplate leaving the music industry. The renowned singer, who rose to fame in the 1980s with her hit song “Kids in America,” expressed how witnessing Jackson’s immense celebrity exposed her to the darker side of superstardom.
Reflecting on the 1988 tour with Jackson, Wilde disclosed to the i newspaper that it made her realize the overwhelming nature of extreme fame. She described it as confining, like living in a luxurious but isolated cage. Being the support act allowed her to appreciate the fun side of the industry, contrasting with Jackson’s seclusion.
This eye-opening tour became a pivotal moment for the chart-topping star, who amassed 25 UK Top 50 singles and became the most-charted female singer of the decade. Wilde reminisced that being able to travel and return to a normal life without needing a bodyguard was a privilege she cherished. This experience sparked thoughts of exploring other avenues outside the music scene.
The singer’s insights on touring with Jackson coincide with the release of a new three-part Netflix documentary, “Michael Jackson: The Verdict,” which revisits the star’s 2005 trial related to allegations of misconduct at his Neverland Ranch.
Despite her successful music career, fame was not a novelty for Wilde, as she grew up surrounded by it due to her father, singer-songwriter Marty Wilde. When her breakout single “Kids in America” hit the airwaves in 1981, Wilde, then 20, quickly transitioned from living at home to traveling globally.
While fame brought perks like lavish treatment, such as champagne awaiting her in hotel rooms, it also attracted unwanted attention. Wilde recounted incidents like finding a man trying to climb into her London residence through a drainpipe and dealing with fans camping outside her home. One amusing anecdote involved two Russians showing up at her house post-marriage, unaware she was already married.
After taking a hiatus from music to focus on raising her children, Wilde pursued a newfound passion for horticulture, enrolling in classes at 36. This decision eventually led to a successful career in presenting gardening programs and achieving a Gold Award at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show.
Wilde expressed few regrets about leaving the music industry, mentioning that the only aspect she missed was having her makeup done. Today, she finds solace in gardening, dog walking, and meditation, which help her maintain balance while continuing to perform her hit songs on tour.
Catch “Michael Jackson: The Verdict” starting Wednesday, June 3, on Netflix.