Louise Redknapp quits Eternal reunion over alleged LGBTQ row. The girl band started their music debut in 1992 with the orginal members Louise Redknapp, Easther and Vernie Bennett and Kelle Bryan. Eternal had hits including, “Always & Forever “and “I Wanna Be The Only One.”
Eternal released their debut album, Always and Forever in November 1993, and it reached number two in the UK Album Charts. The album sold over one million copies in the United Kingdom, and was confirmed as four times platinum, making it one of 1994’s biggest selling albums and the year’s biggest-selling debut album.
The 48-year-old singer has decided to withdraw from the planned reunion tour after allegations arose that the other members declined to perform due to their concerns about the transgender community’s impact on the gay community. Louise has since clarified her departure from the tour by sharing the Progress Pride Flag on her Social media platforms, along with the heartfelt message: ‘Always and forever’.
— Louise Redknapp (@LouiseRedknapp) September 24, 2023
Although prior to her announcement on exiting from the Eternal reunion, Redknapp posted her excitement for the reunion on Instagram, and commented, ” Stay is such a timeless song Easther absolutely KILLING that opening note as she does and I’m so proud this was where it all started for us! I’m so lucky I got to record this song myself for my Greatest Hits this year and girls I hope I did you proud.”
Amidst this post a Fan thanked Louise for her support, they commented “So much love for you supporting the LGBTQI+ community.” Louise’s publicist, Simon Jones, confirmed the development in a statement to Sky News. Simon Jones said, “A message was sent to the team putting together the Eternal reunion stating that if it was to go ahead, neither Vernie nor Easther would perform at Pride shows or LGBTQ+ festivals. This was because the duo felt that the gay community was being hijacked by the trans community and they do not support this.”
He added, “Louise is a huge supporter and ally of the LGBTQ+ community and both herself and Kelle told the duo they would not work with anyone who held these views, and as such the reunion as a four would not be going ahead. The team behind the proposed Eternal reunion are gay – including management, PR and tour promoter – and neither myself nor any of the team would work with artists who held such views about the trans community.” #
No official statements have been released by either Vernie or Easther Bennett; however, Vernie posted on her social media account with this message. “I am ‘Eternally’ grateful for the family, friends & amazing fans who have and continue to support our incredible journey & artistry. I’ve been blessed to connect with so many diverse & wonderful people from all walks of life during my career. You all have a piece of my heart. Though it is impossible & counterproductive to respond to the overwhelming number of statements & allegations made online recently; I place this moment in God’s hands. I truly appreciate all who continue to express love & support for my family & Eternal.” xoxo – Vernie.”
At present, there have been no additional tour dates disclosed, and no further correspondence has been provided regarding the potential resolution and continuation of the reunion among the four original members as initially intended.
