Chesney Hawks Opens Up About His Childhood
Chesney Hawks revealed that he was a victim of sexual violence during his childhood and discussed the long-lasting impact it had on him.
The pop icon, currently a contestant on ITV’s Celebrities Big Brother, shared his experience in a recently released interview on the Independent Good Vibrations Podcast.
New Album and Vulnerability
Hawks shared these details as he prepares to release his new album titled “Living Arrows,” which features a poignant track called “13” that reflects on his trauma.
“When I was young, I was 13 years old – I was targeted. This lasted longer than it should have, and it seems I carried it with me throughout my life without realizing how much it affected me until later,” he explained.
While he did not disclose the identity of his abuser, he clarified that it wasn’t a family member and felt inspired to address this topic in the song “13” after discussing it with his wife, who revealed her own experiences after 27 years.
“I just had such a crying, breakthrough moment with my wife about it,” he said. “I thought I had dealt with it, but during a conversation with Nick (Kershaw, the songwriter), I opened up to him.”
He emphasized that he created this song because he felt it was something “people should hear,” which allowed him to embrace vulnerability throughout the rest of the album.
“I was definitely in a state of wanting to express myself. The album features several other songs that explore deeper, more complex themes,” he added.
Reflections on Fame and Mental Health
In another interview, Hawks reflected on his rise to fame as a teenager with the hit song “One” in 1991, noting that being young brought about various challenges, including complex mental health issues.
“Being young definitely came with its own set of complex mental health challenges,” he admitted, acknowledging that he struggled with substance abuse for a time as he grew older. “However, there were others who influenced my career path too.”
Listen to the complete interview above.
In other news about Chesney Hawkes, in 2023, the singer revealed that he and his wife experienced a heart-pounding moment while flying at 20,000 feet with their children.
To receive help, advice, or additional information about sexual harassment, assault, and rape in the UK, visit Rape Crisis Charity. In the United States, visit RAINN.
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