Jesy Nelson’s journey from aspiring singer to expectant mother has been a turbulent one, marked by both triumphs and tribulations. Before stepping into the spotlight as a member of Little Mix, formed during the UK version of The X Factor, Nelson claimed to possess a healthy body image. However, the unforgiving nature of the entertainment industry and the pervasive influence of social media quickly chipped away at her self-esteem. The constant scrutiny of her appearance, amplified by online trolls, led to debilitating body image issues and a deep-seated insecurity that she feared would impact her future children. This fear manifested as a reluctance to have children, a stark contrast to the joy and anticipation she now expresses as she embarks on motherhood.
The relentless online bullying Nelson endured took a severe toll on her mental health. She was candid about her struggles in her BBC Three documentary, Odd One Out, revealing the devastating impact of negative comments and the dark places they drove her to. One particularly cruel tweet from TV personality Katie Hopkins about her weight triggered a downward spiral, leading Nelson to contemplate suicide. This wasn’t an isolated incident; Nelson also disclosed a previous suicide attempt in 2013, which she alleges was brushed aside by management due to concerns about negative press. The pressure to maintain a perfect image and the lack of adequate support left her feeling vulnerable and isolated, highlighting the immense pressure placed upon young artists in the public eye.
Nelson’s personal life has also been a roller-coaster ride. Her relationship with rapper Zion Foster, seven years her junior, has been characterized by periods of both connection and separation. They initially sparked dating rumors in late 2022, frequently sharing glimpses of their romance on social media. However, their relationship encountered a bump in the road in August 2023, reportedly due to their age difference. Despite a brief split, the couple rekindled their romance, leading to their recent pregnancy announcement, showcasing a united front and a shared excitement for their future as parents. This current chapter suggests a newfound stability and joy in Nelson’s life, contrasting sharply with the tumultuous relationships she experienced before, including her high-profile romance with Love Island star Chris Hughes and a broken engagement with Rixton frontman Jake Roche.
Nelson’s time in Little Mix was both a blessing and a curse. While the group achieved immense success, the pressures of fame and the constant scrutiny proved overwhelming. She experienced panic attacks and struggled to cope with the relentless demands of being in a girl band. Ultimately, these pressures led to her departure from the group in December 2020, a decision that shocked fans but one she felt was necessary to prioritize her mental health. She openly admitted to feeling unprepared for the intensity of fame, transitioning from a barmaid in Dagenham to a globally recognized pop star. The lack of breathing room and the constant pressure to maintain a perfect image exacerbated her pre-existing mental health issues and body image struggles, ultimately contributing to her decision to leave the band.
Following her departure from Little Mix, Nelson embarked on a solo career, but this too was fraught with controversy. The release of her debut single, Boyz, ignited accusations of blackfishing, with critics alleging that she had altered her appearance to emulate Black heritage. Leaked messages from former bandmate Leigh-Anne Pinnock to influencer NoHun further fueled the fire, intensifying public scrutiny and straining relationships within the group. Nelson addressed the controversy during an Instagram livestream alongside Nicki Minaj, who vehemently defended her and lashed out at the other Little Mix members. The entire ordeal left Nelson feeling heartbroken and betrayed, particularly by Leigh-Anne, whom she had once considered family.
Despite the challenges and controversies that have punctuated her career, Jesy Nelson’s pregnancy announcement signifies a new beginning. The photograph of her cradling her baby bump alongside Zion Foster, her fiancé, radiates joy and anticipation. Their reunited relationship, following a brief separation, appears stronger than ever, suggesting a newfound stability and shared excitement for their growing family. This chapter of Nelson’s life represents a turning point, moving from the struggles and anxieties of the past towards the promise of motherhood and a brighter future. The journey has been far from easy, but Nelson’s resilience and vulnerability have resonated with many, making her story one of both caution and inspiration.
