Tributes are flooding in following the tragic death of S Club 7 star Paul Cattermole who has passed away aged 46. The news broke earlier today (April 7) after his bandmates released a heartbreaking statement on social media.
S Club 7, who announced they were making a comeback with a reunion tour just weeks ago, said in their statement: "We are truly devastated by the passing of our brother Paul. There are no words to describe the deep sadness and loss we all feel.
"We were so lucky to have had him in our lives and are thankful for the amazing memories we have. He will be so deeply missed by each and every one of us. We ask that you respect the privacy of his family and of the band at this time."
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Paul's family later released a statement announcing the 'unexpected' loss which read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved son and brother Paul Cattermole. Paul was found yesterday, 6th April 2023 at his home in Dorset and was pronounced dead later that afternoon.
"While the cause of death is currently unknown, Dorset Police has confirmed that there were no suspicious circumstances. Paul’s family, friends and fellow members of S Club request privacy at this time."
Following the tragic news, celebrities, fans and friends of Paul have shared their tributes online.
TV presenter Vernon Kay tweeted: "This is so very sad. From when I first started in TV all the way through CBBC, T4, TOTP, smash hits poll winners Paul and Sclub were always there. He always had time for a chat. RIP."
GB News presenter Dan Wootton said: "Paul Cattermole, a pop legend as part of S Club 7. I will never forget the joy of this day and the impending excitement of seeing you reunited again soon. Reach for the stars now, sir. Just heartbreaking."
TV personality India Willoughby wrote: "Omg. Such sad news. Paul was always my favourite. Cheeky smile. Be with the brightest stars now. Love and condolences to all his family and friends."
Many fans say they are left 'heartbroken' at the sudden news which has come just weeks after a much anticipated reunion tour was announced.
@PrivOfPerrie tweeted: "Can’t believe what I have read!! I grew up listening to S Club 7, and still dance around and listen to them RIP Paul, you will be missed."
@beth_emilyy_ reminisced: "I’m completely heartbroken at the news of Paul Cattermole passing away, S Club 7 was my entire childhood and I was so excited to see them all again I hope he knew how beloved he was by the fans and the joy he brought to so many peoples lives."
@Tattifnatt added: "I'm heartbroken and in shock. S club 7 was a big part of my childhood. RIP Paul."
The fellow members of S Club 7 are yet to pay tribute to Paul on their individual social media accounts as they have requested privacy during this time.
Paul was one of the original members of S Club 7 but quit the band in 2002. The seven-piece pop group were originally created by former Spice Girls manager Simon Fuller in 1998 and kept the pop charts alive until 2003 when they disbanded.
Cattermole, Rachel Stevens, Bradley McIntosh, Hannah Spearritt, Jo O’Meara, Jon Lee and Tina Barrett briefly reunited in 2014 to perform a medley of their best-known songs for the BBC Children In Need appeal, but announced earlier this year they were reuniting for a tour.
The UK and Ireland arena reunion tour was set to see all seven members back on stage together for the first time in nine years.
Five years after S Club broke up, Cattermole started performing at nightclubs, universities and holiday camps across the UK with Jo and Bradley as part of the previously mentioned S Club 3.
But things got increasingly difficult for Cattermole and in 2018, he said on Loose Women that he run out of money and had to borrow a shirt for the show. He said at the time: "Last year, there's something that I can't really discuss that happened so it's a bit tricky. But I've had an injury, so that's what's happened in the last year that's made it very difficult."
A year later, Cattermole emerged back into the spotlight when he appeared on E4 dating show, First Dates Hotel. At the time, he revealed to the camera he "hadn't had a lot of luck with women" over the years, but was hoping to meet someone special who had a mutual interest in music and performing.
In January 2022, Cattermole revealed he had a new career as a psychic and has his own YouTube channel offering tarot card readings.
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