If I Cared About Getting Older, I'd Still Dye My Hair!

Martin Kemp talks being a silver fox and why he’s no fan of showbiz parties

- Chloe Thomas

Even after 30 years in the business, martin Kemp still has the kind of easy going charm that comes from being a teen idol adored by millions. But don’t be fooled, it takes more than good looks to be a showbiz stalwart and behind the nice guy persona, martin, 55, is one smart cookie. In his colossal career that started with Spandau Ballet, he’s also won critical acclaim as an actor, starring as bad boy on the block Steve owen in East Enders, as well as his chilling turn as Reggie Kray opposite brother Gary in the 1990 film, The Krays.

But it hasn’t all been plain sailing. In the mid-90s martin underwent a lifesaving operation to remove two brain tumours, recovering with the love and support of his family – his wife of 30 years Shirlie Holliman and their daughter Harley moon, 27, and son Roman, 24...

‘When you go through a health scare like I did, all you’re thinking is that you want to get back to normal. 

I try to lead a healthy lifestyle now. If I’m not working I go to the gym every day, not to get super fit but to give my head some space. I love spinning and I like lifting weights. At home we eat healthily, always organic food – my wife does the cooking and I dry up. But then on Friday we get a curry and that blows it all out the water!’

‘My wife Shirlie and I will be together for the rest of our lives.