An original member of one of the 1990s' biggest boy bands has swapped the stage for scaffolding, embracing a life far removed from his pop star past.
From Chart-Topping Fame to Family Life
John Hendy, now 54, was one of the four founding members of East 17, the group behind the iconic 1994 Christmas Number One, Stay Another Day. Despite the band's massive success, which included rubbing shoulders with stars like Phil Collins and landing a £1 million record deal, Hendy now leads a markedly different life.
He left the band in 2018 to focus on his family – his wife Nina and their two children – and his career as a roofer. Speaking about his departure at the time, Hendy stated he felt it was simply "time to move on," citing personal problems within the group as his reason for leaving.
A Nostalgic Nod to Fans on TikTok
Proving he hasn't lost his signature moves, Hendy recently took to TikTok to treat his 2,312 followers to a kitchen dance performance. He performed to the group's 1995 track, Innocent Erotic, calling it his "Christmas song" for East 17 fans.
The clip, where he sported ripped jeans with a black shirt and tie, was warmly received. One fan commented, "This was not on the '1st thing I'll see in 2026' list but I'm here for it," while others called for a full band reunion, including former member Brian Harvey.
Life After the Spotlight: No Regrets
In a candid revelation last year, Hendy told MailOnline that he made no real money from the band's heyday, receiving just £125 a week from their manager at the peak of their fame. He didn't even secure a house from the multi-million pound deal.
However, he harbours no bitterness. "I don't ever regret anything," he said. "We come out with nothing, but there's no point thinking about that. Just get on with life... Life's too short."
He now finds contentment in his skilled trade, stating, "I'm happy doing what I do because I'm at the top of my game. I'm sort of like best of the best on the roof side." He even jokes about arriving at parties in his "battered roofing van" while his old pals turn up in luxury cars, a perspective he's learned to appreciate after a friend reminded him of the unique experiences his pop career afforded him.
Today, East 17 continues with only one original member, Terry Coldwell, 51, alongside newer recruits Robbie Craig and Joe Livermore. Meanwhile, John Hendy has found his peace, enjoying a normal life with his family, far from the glare of the pop charts.
