Stedman Pearson, of the family pop group Five Star, has passed away at the age of 60. The British band, inspired by the success of the Jackson 5, rose to fame in the 1980s with hit songs like ‘Rain or Shine’, ‘System Addict’, and ‘Let Me Be the One’.

His family confirmed his death on 10 March, having been on dialysis. The artist was born in Romford, Essex, Stedman was the eldest of five siblings who were shaped into a musical group by their father, Buster Pearson, a former recording artist.

Five Star was formed in 1983, and at the peak of their success in 1987, they won a BRIT Award for Best Group. The lineup consisted of Stedman, his brother Delroy, and sisters Lorraine, Deniece, and Doris. After a brief split, the group became a trio in 2001, with Stedman continuing to perform alongside Denise and Lorraine until 2006. The band reunited once more in 2012 before disbanding for good.

Beyond music, Stedman pursued other ventures, working as a dance instructor and running a limousine hire service. In 2006, he appeared on ‘All Star Talent Show’ on Channel 5, finishing in third place.

Renowned for their synchronized dance routines and glamorous, coordinated outfits, Five Star captivated audiences with their polished performances. Reflecting on his passing, the Pearson family shared a heartfelt statement with The Independent: “We are very saddened to say on this day – our beloved son/brother Stedman Pearson Jr has passed. He was a gentleman to the very end – in every way – and an amazing son, brother, and uncle. May the memories and love he gave to us and the world be our greatest comfort. He will be deeply missed.”

Fans and friends took to social media to express their grief and admiration. One person wrote on X/Twitter “I was sad to hear the passing of Stedman Pearson #fiverstar yesterday. I went to their home in Essex back in the 80’s & got their autographs. ‘The Slightest Touch’ will always hold a special place too. That song sparked the start of my spiritual journey 7 years ago. #RIP” 

Another shared: “Really sad to hear that Stedman Pearson from Five Star has died. I still absolutely love Five Star, I even walked down the aisle to the song Strong As Steel. Thank you Stedman, and thank you Five Star, for the music and memories you’ve given me!”

Really sad to hear that Stedman Pearson from Five Star has died.
I still absolutely love Five Star, I even walked down the aisle to the song Strong As Steel.

Thank you Stedman, and thank you Five Star, for the music and memories you’ve given me!

— Qui Furor (@Qui_Furor) March 14, 2025

Others continued to express their admiration: “Stedman was so serious and precise with the dance routines! Sad to hear this”, someone else shared: “Loved Five Star as a child and still love hearing them on the radio. My deepest condolences to his family.”

Stedman Pearson leaves behind a legacy of music, performance, and joy, fondly remembered by fans and loved ones alike.